Brandon A. Ortega, MD.
Spine and back reviews.

I saw Dr Ortega in 2023 due to chronic problems with my neck, back and arms. I completed his recommended therapies and still had the same issues. He did surgery on my neck in 2024 and after I healed, my quality of life has been so much better. He was very attentive during the whole process which was much appreciated. I would recommend Dr Ortega wholeheartedly.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

I felt I was in good hands, the minute I met Dr. Ortega. I trusted Dr. Ortega to perform Neck Cervical Radiculopathy ACDF. He is an amazing, wonderful and dedicated surgeon. His self assurance and self confidence, assured me I was in the place. Thank you so much to Dr. Ortega and his team! Thank you Ms. Elena! Thank you for your hard work and dedication! God bless you!!!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

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!!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

My back was always sore and there was always numbness in my left leg. Doctor Ortega performed a lumbar fusion and now I feel 20 years younger. Back pain and leg numbness is gone. The procedure went so smooth and everyone in the office is so nice. I highly recommend!!!!! This is a life/ game changer. Thanks Dr Ortega!!!!!!

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

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

No words can describe how i feel after my back surgery, i have lived with back pain for many years just never took the time to slow down, finally it got to a point were pain became unbearable and surgery was the only option left, i was very skeptical and scare of the outcome after surgery, i was very lucky to have my surgery done by Dr Ortega he was very professional from the very beginning and explain every step of the surgery before hand and it made me very comfortable, after surgery he continue to monitor my recovery and he made sure i understood everything, i don't usually leave reviews but this time it had to be done, Thank you Dr Ortega for taking the time to perform my surgery i will forever be thankful to you. Jose M Martinez 02/04/2026

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

I unfortunately had a series of lumbar procedures with the last two being very problematic. I was referred to Dr Brandon Ortega by my primary physician. It was the luckiest day I’ve had with regards to my lumbar issues. Dr Ortega performed a combination anterior and posterior lumbar fusion with vascular surgeon Wang Teng and the results of their collaboration have been amazing. Dr Ortega is knowledgeable professional and top tier in his field as my results confirm. His dedication to his patients is sincere, there’s an impressive authenticity to his commitment to his patients. Always patient and available for questions and always concise and accurate with his answers. His skill and integrity will allay any anxieties a patient may be experiencing. You will be assured that his driving focus is the the patient’s best resolution to their condition. I recommend him to anyone that requires help with orthopedic issues. You will be impressed and sure that you have made the best decision in your health care journey.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

I met Dr Ortega a little over a year ago on my first appointment and afterwards I went down to my car and cried. Finally, I had hope that I could get my life back! I was so grateful that finally I was referred to a doctor that knew and understood everything I have been experiencing since 2017. Dr Ortega was very thorough in explaining the Cervical Radiculopathy ACDF procedure. I wanted to wait a year before writing this review and I have to tell you that it’s so wonderful to be able to sleep and to wake up and not have the constant pain and weakness in my neck and on my right arm and shoulder. The surgery and care afterwards was exceptional without any problems. Physical therapy in the same office was better than I have experienced elsewhere. They helped me get my strength back with stretches and exercises to maintain the muscle strength. Thank you Dr Ortega for truly giving me back my life!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr Ortega was the best spine surgeon i have ever had the privilege to meet. Thanks to him and his team, I am a walking miracle. I had used a walker for 10 yrs due to a previous failed spinal fusion and with a bent metal rod protruding from my back. Dr Ortega and his team did reconstructive surgery on my entire spine and thanks to him I am walking without a walker and rarely using a cane. I am fully active and even go to the gym 2-3 times a week. I travel, go on walks, workout and am told I look 20 yrs younger! Im 79 and just getting started! Thank you Dr Ortega from the bottom of my heart!!! May GOD bless you for giving me a new life!!!

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.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr. Brandon Ortega, my Orthopedic Surgeon, whom I love and respect, is a shining example of compassion and precision. In my entire life, I have never met a Doctor so genuinely caring and meticulous. He was a divine blessing in my life. In 2023, he performed a Lumbar fusion decompression on my spine. He performed an Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) on my neck on 5-12-25, and I'm looking forward to feeling much better again.🙌 On 5-12-25, my surgery was a resounding success, he repaired the disc in my neck, and I'm now embarking on a transformative journey of healing, strength, growth, and freedom from pain!!!🦋 I'm ecstatic to share that Dr. Ortega has done it again, surrounded by his exceptional staff in a radiant healing atmosphere filled with light and professionalism! As I closed my eyes, I was serenaded by "Everything is going to be alright"! And that was uplifting vibrations. Again, thank you, Dr. Ortega, you're a blessing to the world! Ms. Sherry Pruitt 💛

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

We absolutely love Dr. Ortega. He healed my mom from the pain she endured for many years. From the first day we met him, bilingual in the Spanish language, he was extremely patient and explained our mother’s condition and future surgery in detail. Dr. Ortega truly cares for his patients and their overall well being. Dr. Ortega continues to make a difference one patient at a time. I am in awwe at his level of knowledge and experience. He is also very personable and shakes our hand every time we visit. It’s the little things that sometimes leave a lasting impression. We love Dr. Ortega and his compassionate approach Thank you Dr Ortega for saving my mom’s life. I will always be grateful for your speciality. I will never forget the day I sat at LB Memorial for what seemed like an eternity only to see you after the procedure so cool, calm, and collective to let me know everything went great. There is no doubt Dr. Ortega is leading the future in spinal procedure advancements. He is doing extraordinary work with his magical hands.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr. Ortega took the time to truly explain everything that was going on with my spine. Very patient in listening to my concerns and providing me with answers. Best doctor I've ever had because he listens to the patient and doesn't rush tge visit.

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.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

I feel Dr. Ortega gave me my life back following two surgeries. The man is honest knowledgeable, and an outstanding surgeon. I would recommend him to anybody with back issues.

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 🙂

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr Ortega was amazing, the replacement of 2 discs was the best decision I made, it relieved the numbness and tingling in my arms and hands, up to now, I haven’t had any neck pain, thank you Dr Ortega!

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!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr Ortega and team of specialists really made my surgery seamless from beginning to end. I had C-3 through C-7 cervical surgery with 2- fusions and 2 disc replacements. I am 4 weeks from surgery date and am healing so well with no problems. I would recommend Dr Ortega and team to anyone who has a spine problem and pain. I am now starting my physical therapy and no pain.

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.

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

Dr Ortega performed my ACDF surgery in 2024 where my c spine was fused and 3 discs were replaced. He is a very caring and very thorough surgeon who i highly recommend. My recovery overall was smooth although I did have some neurological issues right after surgery that resolved themselves within 3-6 months. I’m very happy that I had the surgery and can say that 2 years later all is good!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD