Honored to be Named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor in Chicago
I am truly humbled and excited to share that I have been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor in the Chicagoland area. This recognition is particularly meaningful to me because it is based on nominations and votes from my peers—fellow physicians who see firsthand the impact we strive to make in our patients’ lives.
As a spine surgeon, I have always believed that excellence in patient care requires not only technical skill, but also a deep commitment to compassion, innovation, and collaboration. To be recognized by colleagues across specialties reaffirms that the mission of our practice—to provide patients with the safest, most effective, and least invasive surgical care—is resonating with the broader medical community.
What the Castle Connolly Recognition Means
For more than 30 years, Castle Connolly has been a trusted resource for identifying the nation’s most respected physicians. Their process is rigorous: doctors across the country nominate peers whom they consider to be leaders in their fields. Those nominations are carefully reviewed by a physician-led research team that evaluates qualifications, training, outcomes, and professional reputation.
This means the award is not something you can buy or apply for—it reflects genuine professional respect. For me, that authenticity makes the recognition especially rewarding.
My Journey in Spine Surgery
When I began my career, my vision was to transform the way we approach spine surgery. I wanted to reduce the burden of recovery, minimize pain, and help patients return to their lives more quickly. This drive led me to focus on minimally invasive techniques, including biportal endoscopic surgery and other advanced approaches that are reshaping the field.
Through my role as Chief of the Section of Spine Surgery and Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, I’ve had the privilege of training the next generation of surgeons while also pushing forward research and innovation. Equally important, I’ve been able to provide thousands of patients with personalized, evidence-based care in our outpatient setting—care that emphasizes both safety and results.
Gratitude for My Patients and Colleagues
While this recognition comes from peers, it would not be possible without the trust and confidence of my patients. Each person who walks through our doors entrusts us with their health, and that is a responsibility I never take lightly.
I am also grateful to my colleagues—surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, therapists, and all members of our care teams—who make our practice what it is. Medicine is never a solo effort, and this award is as much a reflection of the outstanding team around me as it is of my individual work.
Looking Ahead
Being named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor is a tremendous honor, but it also serves as motivation to keep improving. My commitment remains the same: to continue advancing outpatient spine surgery, mentoring future surgeons, and offering every patient the best possible path to healing.
Thank you to my peers for this recognition, and thank you to my patients for allowing me the privilege of being part of your journey.
At A Glance
Dr. Kern Singh
- Minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgeon
- Inventor and surgeon innovator with multiple patents in spinal surgery and instrumentation
- Author of more than 10 textbooks in minimally invasive spinal surgery
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