Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/brandon-ortega-md/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Imaging and diagnosis conversations · Patient experiences # Brandon A. Ortega, MD. *Imaging and diagnosis conversations reviews.* 9 five-star reviews for Dr. Brandon A. Ortega discuss imaging and diagnosis conversations. Patients share stories of clear explanations. Read their words, learn what mattered to them, and bring the questions that matter to you to your next visit. Read the full patient accounts and original sources below. Review totals reflect the source ratings available here. [Hear from patients ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/brandon-ortega-md/#review-browser) [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [Read this page as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/brandon-ortega-md/index.md) ![Brandon A. Ortega, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/brandon-ortega-md.jpg) A person behind your care ## Get to know *Brandon A. Ortega.* Dr. Brandon Ortega is a fellowship-trained spine surgeon who focuses on helping adults move better and feel better—without unnecessary surgery. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures and motion-preserving techniques like cervical disc replacement, often helping people recover faster and get back to the things they love. Patients describe him as calm, clear, and genuinely kind. He takes time to explain your condition and walk you through your options, so you always feel informed and supported. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Ortega is known for building trust and delivering results. When he’s not in surgery, he’s usually exercising or spending time with family and friends. Cervical Disc Replacement Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion Spinal Fusion Spinal Decompression Kyphoplasty Motion Preservation [Meet Brandon A. Ortega at Commons Clinic ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) ## Keep getting to know us. [All reviews for Brandon A. Ortega →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [Imaging and diagnosis conversations experiences across our team →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/) [Staff and office experience reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/staff/brandon-ortega-md/) [Spine and back reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/spine/brandon-ortega-md/) [Pain experiences reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/pain-symptoms/brandon-ortega-md/) [Listening and clear explanations reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/communication/brandon-ortega-md/) [Compassion and bedside manner reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/compassion/brandon-ortega-md/) [Neck and cervical spine reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/neck/brandon-ortega-md/) Bring what matters to you ## Your questions *belong in the conversation.* Understanding the explanation can matter as much as seeing a report. These patient accounts mention imaging or diagnosis conversations with our clinicians. - What would I like the clinician to explain about my results or diagnosis? - Which details in these patient accounts would I like to ask our team about? In their own words ## Care feels personal. *So do these stories.* These are individual experiences. A topic mention does not establish who performed a procedure, medical suitability or a typical result. This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that mention imaging and diagnosis conversations. You can read every rating and written review on [the full clinician profile](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) . 10 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Dr. Ortega has been amazing, life changing!! I was in so much pain by the time I was referred to him, I was barely sleeping, and missing a ton of work because of the pain and feeling off balance. I was initially referred to physical therapy which was helping both my neck and a shoulder condition. I wasn’t understanding how so many symptoms (pain in my arm, fingers tingling, feeling off balance) all stemmed from my neck. When Dr. Ortega spoke with me about Complete Disk Replacement surgery I was relieved. Though the procedure on my neck sounded scary it HAD to be better than how life had been. I was actually excited for the surgery and couldn’t stop smiling any time it was brought up. Surgery day couldn’t come fast enough. Dr. Ortega took time to explain the surgery and what to expect after it. There were literally no surprises. I felt very little pain after surgery, mostly from the incision itself. There was some discomfort in my neck, almost felt as if there was a lump in my throat. This went away in about 6 weeks. I was off all pain meds within days of surgery. I was nervous about swallowing and stuck to a liquid diet for a few days. Swallowing was back to normal with in a week or two, ice pops became a favorite! . My voice was a little raspy for a short time as well, cleared up within a month. I just had my 6 month post-op appointment and I can’t tell you enough how amazing I feel! The pain and tingling are completely gone (went to physical therapy for some time…work the process). I can sleep through the night again! I did have one odd symptom around 3 months post op, when I tilted my head down I felt a static sensation from neck to my fingers which lasted a second. Dr. Ortega was able to see me next day, checked X-rays and everything looked great. My nerves were heeling and the sensation went away after a couple of weeks. I know the thought of surgery on your neck sounds very scary…if Dr. Ortega is your surgeon, rest easy…he knows what he’s doing. He takes the time to explain everything about the surgery (CDR), what to expect after, answered every question I had which eased my mind. He gave me my life back! Thank you Dr. Ortega!! M. Garrity Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 8 months ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/113223820156047914857/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > After extensive research and consultations with multiple spine surgeons, I chose Dr. Brandon Ortega and that decision proved to be absolutely the right one. > > From the outset, Dr. Ortega demonstrated a level of expertise, precision, and clinical judgment that immediately set him apart. He took the time to thoroughly explain my diagnosis, reviewed imaging in detail, and clearly outlined the reasoning behind each treatment option. His approach was thoughtful, methodical, and grounded in both experience and evidence. > > Having been under Dr. Ortega’s care for several months prior to surgery, I always felt confident that my case was being managed with careful attention and long-term planning. When surgery became necessary, his professionalism and technical skill were evident throughout the entire process. > > The results thus far have been outstanding. For the first time in a very long time, I am not experiencing the back pain, leg pain, shooting pain, or numbness that had significantly affected my daily life. The improvement has been both meaningful and noticeable. > > Equally impressive was Dr. Ortega’s team. His staff and surgical coordinator were responsive, organized, and consistently supportive before and after surgery, a reflection of a well-run, patient-focused practice. > > Choosing a spine surgeon is a major decision. Based on both the process and the results, I can say with confidence that Dr. Ortega is an exceptional surgeon whose skill, judgment, and care truly stand out. I would recommend him without hesitation to anyone facing complex spinal issues. > > — Michael H., Long Beach, CA M. Hanson Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 9 months ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106670121735609358229/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > Every detail of my surgery went well from the day that it was diagnosed that I needed surgery. Dr. Ortega‘s office was fabulous and taking care of all the details of my upcoming surgery which I had on December 16. > > I am so very happy that I went through with the surgery and took the advice of my doctors orthopedic doctors of Prem Remekaur as well as Brandon Ortega; thank you and happy holidays and new year 2026 To both Doctors and Staff M. Parks Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 10 months ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114783647049352868168/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > smart.....detailed......explains everything.....shows you right on the MRI/CAT pictures what the problems are. K. bodger Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: a year ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106320404266696286945/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > After years of dealing with chronic numbness and tingling in my arms, I finally found relief thanks to Dr. Ortega and his incredible team. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, heard, and taken seriously. I had tried everything—physical therapy, cortisone shots, rest—but the symptoms persisted. > > Dr. Ortega took the time to review my MRI in detail, explain my condition thoroughly, and walk me through all my options. Just weeks later, he successfully performed surgery to replace three damaged discs in my cervical spine (C4–C7). I’m now just two weeks post-op and already feeling a huge difference. While there’s still some soreness from the recovery process, the intense pain caused by spinal cord compression and disc herniation is gone. > > This review may be a little early, but I couldn’t wait to share my gratitude. Once I’m fully healed, I look forward to writing an update—but for now, I’m just excited to be getting back to the active lifestyle I’ve missed for so long. > > Thank you, Dr. Ortega, for helping me take my life back. B. Crihfield Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: a year ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100849298776951749408/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > The office is very clean & fairly new. Front office staff for appointments & filing of disability paperwork are extremely nice. Nurse visits for wound care - they are cautious to not cause any pain when cleaning, changing bandages or removing staples/sutures. > > Dr. Ortega has a great bedside manner in clinic & hospital. Surgery was scheduled to be a fusion, based off an MRI. An X-Ray was done in office & he found he could do a decompression vs fusion & gave me the choice. I went with decompression based on the possibility of issues with other discs down the road. PAIN: Has been minimal if any, including surgery. > > Elena, his scheduling assistant has been very accommodating with scheduling appointments, surgical approval & dealing with my hectic work schedule. > > The office has its own PT room. In the past 12 years of dealing with Sciatica, and PT, I have never been in such a nice PT location. The PT doctor & therapists are all very nice, knowledgeable of their job & make sure you are comfortable and not in any pain. > > Prior to my surgery I did a lot of research of spinal orthopedic Dr’s in my plan before choosing Dr Ortega. > > I highly recommend Dr Ortega if you are considering spinal surgery. A. Iribarren Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: a year ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114468541044946748023/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > My testimony is giving God all the Glory for Dr. Brandon Ortega and his team. Many days I wanted to give up but didn’t! I believed God would heal me someday! > It was 2012 when I truly started feeling the spinal pain. I was also experiencing joint pain! It began getting worse throughout the years. It was 2023 when I first met with Dr. Brandon Ortega who is part of the Optum Group. Dr Ortega is a Dr who took the time in explaining my condition. Dr. Brandon explained my condition which was, Cervical Nerve Root Disorder. He explained MRIs, X-rays and so forth. Dr. Ortega is just one of the many Drs. left in the medical profession who takes the time with his patients! Thank God. This has been my experience in such short period of time. > Prior to Dr. Ortega, I saw many Specialist regarding my medical issues.I tried every Conventional Medicine and Physical Therapy to help relieve the painful suffering, I was dealing with. Not to mention years of depression. Dealing with the fact, that this aliment had left me drained was not easy. My health was rapidly declining. It was sometimes difficult for anyone to tell unless, I was having difficult days which kept me indoors. I was a silent sufferer! > Dr. Ortega was honest enough to let me know, the only medical solution to stop the pain would be surgery. He discussed the procedures. I saw and read all the necessary information I needed to know and see. > I sort the Lord on this matter. It was then I knew in my heart, that Dr. Ortega was the right Dr. in performing this procedure! I had my surgery on April 8th 2025. It has been one of the best decisions made. > I am feeling 99.9% better in my life today. I thank God everyday. If do cry, it’s tears of joy! Anyone who has ever suffered from chronic pain can tell you, it will rob you of whatever joy you had or have. I’m am far happier than I have ever been. I’m slowly but surely recovering and getting back to enjoying life once again! Thank you Lord🙏🏼🙏🏼Thanks to Dr. Ortega and his awesome team at the Institute and Memorial Hospital 🙂 C. Richards Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: a year ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114092836220863623448/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > I was experiencing chronic shoulder pain, some tingling in my fingers, and weakness in the grip in my right arm. It hindered my ability to do regular daily activities and I was unable to sleep without waking up with pain every time I rolled over. Dr. Ortega reviewed my MRI and explained the pain and weakness was caused by degenerating discs from C4-C7 and spinal cord impingement due to a bone spur and arthritis. > He took time to explain the different options that were available to me to help alleviate the pain and I chose to have a combination of artificial disc replacement for three discs and fusion of my C5-C6 and C6-C7 vertebrae. > I went into the operating room at about 8:30am and was sitting at home in my easy chair eating yogurt at 2:30. I had immediate relief from my shoulder pain and weakness. I had a little difficulty swallowing for a couple of days following surgery but that resolved itself. I also had some neck pain from the surgery but I was able to manage it with Tylenol, a nerve medication, and a muscle relaxant, without the use of narcotics. > I was pain free after three weeks and after undergoing some physical therapy to regain range of motion and to strengthen my core and the muscles of my neck and shoulders I have resumed my normal active lifestyle. > If the combination of artificial disc replacement and fusion is an option for you I would highly recommend you do them at the same time. I had a great experience and a great outcome! M. Hugen Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 2 weeks ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/107931726212374192368/reviews?hl=en) Source link type: reviewer activity Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > Dr. Ortega was very kind and took the time to walk me through what was going on with my MRI when I was dealing with severe sciatica pain from degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. We did an ALIF surgery with a spacer at L3–L4 and a disc replacement at L4–L5, and both are doing great. Now three months post-op, the sciatica pain is completely gone, and the minimal lower back pain I have isn't related to the surgical work at all. Since my job doesn't involve heavy lifting, recovery was relatively quick, and I was able to get back to work in four weeks. Overall, this procedure has been life-changing. J. Miller Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 2 weeks ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100620690933757587140/reviews?hl=en) Source link type: reviewer activity Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD > I received rather overwhelming diagnosis and still trying to grasp it all. Dr Ortega spent a great deal of time in describing it to me. But a day or so later, I had adjusted emotionally, but there still many questions. I have a pre-op appointment in about a 6 weeks and until then, I feel like I am in limbo. I reached out to the surgery scheduler but have not a return call or answers. M. Shanklin Rating: 4/5 · Source: Google · Date: a year ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100529255747289940167/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD A little more understanding ## Feel ready for *your next conversation.* Spine ### [Your spine MRI: 7 questions about the terms in your report](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/reading-spine-mri-report/) An MRI report describes what the radiologist sees. These seven questions help you understand which findings matter, what remains uncertain, and whether the information changes your next step. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/reading-spine-mri-report/) ## Complete review collection [Read all 10 written reviews in this collection](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/brandon-ortega-md/all.md) ## Review pages in Markdown Previous: This is the first review page. Next: This is the last review page. - [Page 1](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/imaging-diagnosis/brandon-ortega-md/index.md) ## Publisher & attribution Commons Clinic Reviews is operated by Commons Clinic. This website is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Google, Zocdoc, or Yelp. Google, Google Maps, and Google Business Profile are trademarks of Google LLC. Zocdoc and the Zocdoc logo are trademarks of Zocdoc, Inc. Yelp and the Yelp logo are registered trademarks of Yelp Inc. All third-party names and logos belong to their respective owners and identify the original review sources. © 2026 Commons Clinic. All rights reserved.