I am a board certified, fellowship-trained Orthopaedic spine surgeon. I have comprehensive training in the management of degenerative conditions, metastatic disease, fractures, and scoliosis/kyphosis. In addition, I have spent time in France learning advanced techniques focused on resection of primary spine tumors. I perform many procedures including laminectomy, laminotomy, discectomy, fusion, disc replacement, and deformity correction throughout the cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral spine.

As a spine surgeon, my goal is to partner with patients to determine appropriate, personalized treatment. Every patient is unique and treatment often requires a trial of conservative management, including physical therapy and other modalities prior to surgical options. I only provide surgery as an option after non-operative treatment is maximized. I look forward to working with you to take care of your spine needs.

I current serve as the Louis A. Goldstein Spine Surgery Fellowship Co-Director and the Division Chief of Spine Surgery.

Faculty Appointments

Assistant Professor - Department of Orthopaedics (SMD)

Credentials

Residency & Fellowship

Fellowship, Spine Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2021 - 2022

Residency, Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital (USA). 2017 - 2021

Internship, Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital (USA). 2016 - 2017

Education

MD | Johns Hopkins University. 2016

Research

I am actively involved in numerous research projects. I have co-authored more than 130 peer-reviewed manuscripts and more than 50 abstracts presented at national and international meetings. My research is primarily focused on improving patient outcomes following spine surgery. I have identified risk factors for poor outcomes following spine surgery; started a clinical trial to evaluate a new treatment paradigm; and explored translational models to better understand the human spine.

Ratings & Comments

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Ratings

During this visit, did this provider spend enough time with you?

4.6

During this visit, did this provider show respect for what you had to say?

4.8

During this visit did this provider give you easy to understand information about these health questions or concerns?

4.6

During this visit, did this provider listen carefully to you?

4.6

During this visit, did this provider explain things in a way that was easy to understand?

4.6

Patient Comments

Dr Varun is one of the most caring and thoughtful Doctors I have ever met. I am so glad that I have switched to him.

Sep 28, 2024

Very friendly

Aug 29, 2024

This was the best experience I have ever had at a medical office or hospital from beginning to end. Dr, Varun was amazing and very thorough.

Jul 28, 2024

5.0

Good

Jul 05, 2024

5.0

I really like this doctor.

Jun 24, 2024

5.0

Dr. Varun is very patient and understanding. He discussed my condition in a way that I could understand.

Jun 15, 2024

2.6

He did listen to me but seemed a bit disinterested and unconcerned with the issues I expressed. He didn't really offer any feedback [...]. It was the first time with this provider that I didn't feel heard.

Jun 11, 2024

5.0

Dr. Varun spent a lot of time with me. I did not feel rushed in any way. He took his time talking to me regarding my diagnosis. He answered all of my questions and made me feel at ease.

May 08, 2024

4.5

I liked the fact that he worked with me during my recovery.

Apr 25, 2024

1.8

Doctor was indifferent. Seemed almost bothered by my presence. [...]

Apr 23, 2024

5.0

Very good. Care provider listened to my issues & gave detailed explanation for possible treatment.

Apr 22, 2024

5.0

Dr. Varun is very thorough and easy to understand when he is explaining stuff.

Feb 21, 2024

5.0

He's a very caring doctor very happy to work with him

Jan 20, 2024

5.0

Always am recommending Dr Varun.

Jan 11, 2024

5.0

I received excellent information as we consider a surgical option! THANK YOU!

Dec 18, 2023

5.0

Dr. Varun and his staff have a lot of concern for his patients I will recommend him to everyone.

Dec 15, 2023

5.0

Excellent job

Nov 21, 2023

5.0

Very satisfied

Aug 09, 2023

5.0

I can't say enough of how great this provider has been. He has eased me through a process I was dreading with compassion & kindness, as well as knowledge.

Aug 05, 2023

1.0

[...] I am not thrilled with this new doctor [...] he whipped through. My appointment very quickly was rushed, and I told him to stop and slow down but he told me that that is the way they do it now you got a rush through your patience, I may or may not see him again because of his demeanor towards me at my appointment this week. I'm very discouraged.[...]

Jul 28, 2023

5.0

Kind, efficient, professional, fully present for my questions

Jun 08, 2023

1.0

I asked a few questions and he didn't answer them. Said I don't know maybe' and when I asked him to describe a procedure. He told me that I would have to lose weight in order to proceed. Said nothing about the actual procedure I was asking about.

May 20, 2023

4.6

Excellent communication about my state of back -> buttocks -> legs pain/since surgery NOT good option: Try other conservative care, i.e., chiropractic massage... but no recommendations.

May 17, 2023

5.0

Every appointment I have with Dr. Varun Puvanesarajah is awesome, he listens, he is clear, he answers questions, he cares. Definitely recommend him.

Apr 21, 2023

5.0

Very good bedside manner.

Mar 26, 2023

5.0

Very attentive, excellent experience.

Feb 14, 2023

5.0

This was the first time I met this physician. I was very impressed and pleased. He showed interest in my health concerns, provided explanations that were clear to understand, and gave me confidence in having him as my provider of health care. Thank you!

Feb 14, 2023

3.5

Was very impressed with Dr. Varun. Time spent, explanations, empathy.

Jan 12, 2023