Dr. Hargovind S. DeWal, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery, has been named a 2025 Castle Connolly Top Doctor, marking his ninth time receiving this recognition. Only about 7 percent of licensed physicians nationwide earn this honor annually, making it a significant indicator of professional excellence. The Castle Connolly Top Doctor designation is determined through a rigorous selection process involving peer physician nominations and evaluation by a physician-led research team that reviews medical education, training, hospital appointments, and professional disciplinary histories.
Board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. DeWal provides comprehensive treatment for various neck and back conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and spinal nerve issues. His approach emphasizes a multidisciplinary strategy, focusing on thoroughly explaining treatment options and considering conservative, non-surgical therapies before recommending surgical intervention. This patient-centered philosophy is reflected in his 4.9-star Google review rating, with patients frequently praising his expertise and compassionate care.
Dr. DeWal's educational background includes graduating magna cum laude from the State University of New York Downstate College of Medicine, followed by an orthopedic surgery residency and musculoskeletal research fellowship at New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases. He further enhanced his expertise through clinical fellowship training in spine surgery at Cleveland Clinic, a renowned institution for medical innovation. These credentials underscore the depth of his training and commitment to advancing spinal care.
In his practice, Dr. DeWal primarily performs surgical procedures at St. Charles Hospital in Port Charles, New York, utilizing advanced, often minimally invasive techniques such as vertebroplasty, disc replacement, and spinal fusion. The recognition from Castle Connolly matters because it validates his consistent adherence to high standards in a field where precision and patient outcomes are critical. For individuals seeking spine surgery, this award serves as a trusted marker of quality, reassuring patients that they are under the care of a physician vetted by peers and rigorous external review. The implications extend beyond personal achievement, as it highlights the importance of specialized training and patient-focused methodologies in improving healthcare delivery for spinal disorders, potentially influencing standards and expectations within orthopedic communities.
