J Patrick Johnson, MD

Dr. Patrick Johnson is an amazing surgeon and his staff, Peggy Mays and Jodi Ladge are equally outstanding.. Dr. Johnson was my third top specialist to render an opinion about my cervical discs which were a real problem so much so that the doctors felt I could become paralyzed if I fell. The spine and spinal cord were 5mm a part from one another so this could have been a real issue in the future. This coupled with my age of 70 and a heart issue made the decision to operate even more daunting. After my visit with Dr. Johnson I was clear I needed to do this and that he was the doctor to get it done properly. I had great confidence going into the surgery but won't minimize my fear of surgery too. I received excellent care throughout with insight as to the process, how to prepare with post-surgery and my follow-up visits by his very responsive team. I knew I always wanted to do artificial discs over a fusion and that is exactly what I had at two levels. C5-6 and C6-7. I also had a wonderful anesthesiologist who specialized in individuals with heart issues which was arranged by their office I believe. This also contributed to my level of confidence in my care and outcome.
My most recent X-rays showed the proper placement of the two discs. While I did have pain during the recovery, Peggy and Jodie made me feel that what I was feeling was what most who have have the same procedure feel as well which was reassuring and helped me know that any pain would pass during a 4 -6 week period..
I was so happy to hear that Dr. Johnson had done so many of these cervical artificial disc so was very confident that mine would work out well too. He answered all of my questions when I saw him and if he was unavailable by phone Jodie and Peggy sought the answers to get back to me right away.
I definitely feel like I picked the right doctor on many levels to do the surgery on my neck. I am glad this surgery is over. Kudos to a great surgeon and his terrific team.