UCLA Spine Center

I had spinal cord surgery done by Dr. Holly and am very happy with the results and follow up care I have received. I was admitted to UCLA hospital on an emergency basis and Dr. Holly was assigned to me. He was very thorough in his explanation of what was going to happen during surgery (tumor removal) and has a compassionate and professional bedside manner. Overall my experience at UCLA (9 days in the hospital) was excellent. I am so glad my Neurologist referred me to UCLA and to Dr. Holly.

I have used UCLA for 100% of my healthcare needs since 2005 and I have had excellent care all around… until the Spine Center.
I have a 10-​year history of degenerative disc problems and I first became a patient at the Spine Center (Dr Fish) in early 2014 (referral from my UCLA primary care doc). I find the on-​site staff to be outstanding and friendly and the environment is very nice.
The Good:
My first appointment with Dr Fish was routine in 2014. We discussed my recent lumbar MRI, talked about pain management and PT and agreed on a plan. Keep in mind that UCLA is a teaching hospital so you are likely to be seen by «fellows» (physicians in training). From my perspective, more eyes are never a bad thing — embrace this. But Dr Fish was very involved, reviewed my MRI results with me and I found him to be direct, but very knowledgeable. His parting comment to me was the following:
«Now that you are on our service, we will take care of any issues related to your back pain. Call any time if you need something.» I walked away feeling comforted. It turned out to be false comfort.
In 2015, I had cervical issues, another MRI and a subsequent epidural procedure performed by Dr Fish (no issues) which eased my pain considerably. I also had a surgical consult with Dr Park, whom I found bright and competent. Again, «fellows» were involved and they enhanced the overall process and provided some great information.
The BAD:
1. EVERY appointment, even a follow-​up after a MRI or consultation, is a 3 – 4 week wait. I’ve never been seen in a reasonable time frame. This practice has zero regard for your pain when it comes to scheduling.
2. When I needed immediate evaluation and treatment for a 13 mm disc herniation (severe pain) recently, I was told by the schedulers that it would be a 25-​day wait. I pushed and talked with Dr Fish’s assistant, who said «I’m sorry, he has clinic the next two weeks». No alternative was offered. I emailed Dr Fish who refused to help me with pain interventions (until my eval in 25 days), refused to order a MRI and suggested I go to the ER if I needed immediate help. Keep in mind, I was on his service and had just seen him THREE WEEKS prior to this flare-​up.
3. Once I was finally evaluated by Dr Park (surgeon), I was told to call Dr Fish’s assistant and schedule an epidural ASAP. I left messages 2 days in a row (on her voicemail — the only option for scheduling procedures with Dr Fish). It was 7 full days before someone returned my call for scheduling. SEVEN DAYS.
4. In my case, surgery is ultimately the best option for me. But the first available slot was almost 7 WEEKS from the date of my evaluation, and the scheduler (very professional) acted like she was doing me a favor. She told me 3 times that «many patients wait 12 – 20 weeks. When your pain is a constant ⁷⁄₈ (on a scale of 1 – 10), 7 weeks is a lifetime.
So after 24 days of trying to get some help from the UCLA Spine Center and Dr Fish, I gave up. I telephoned the Cedars Sinai Spine Center this morning. I have an appointment Monday (3 business days from now) with a top pain management specialist. I have an appointment with a top surgeon in 2 weeks (and was promised the first cancellation if something opens). The process was simple, everyone was helpful and relief is finally in sight.
UCLA is an outstanding institution overall. But despite its excellent physicians, the UCLA Spine Center is poorly managed and clearly understaffed (with physicians). I am extremely disappointed.

REVIEW FOR DR. McBRIDE
I met Dr. McBride a year prior to my spinal surgery and knew that when I was ready he would be my surgeon of choice. It was the best choice I ever made. I was in pain for about fifteen years and now I am back to hiking and feeling fantastic. I am told the procedure was fairly complex but all in all my recovery was pretty swift.
Aside from his incredible expertise I received wonderful and thoughtful care at UCLA Ortho as well as in residential rehab (I traveled to CA for my surgery & Dr. McBride arranged for a week of local rehab). Dr. McBride was always available within a few hours by phone and he showed up along the way to personally see how I was doing.
I am out of pain and feeling great. I recommend Dr. McBride whole heatedly — an understatement if ever there was one.
Thank you Dr. McBride!!!

**REVIEW FOR DR DUNCAN Q. MCBRIDE**
I am a 21yr practicing critical care nurse and I am extremely confident in the care that Dr McBride provides. Having dealt with several personality types of dr’s I do not divulge (unless necessary) that I am in the healthcare profession because I want to see how the dr treats the everyday non medical person. My mom had suffered for years with severe back problems and we were referred to Dr McBride as there were no other surgeons in town that would take her case due to the extent of her injury. Our original consultation was set for a few weeks out however, since my mom suffered another fall and that she was in severe pain, his office did what they could to expedite her appointment. From the time that we met with Dr McBride she has received EXCELLENT care. Dr. McBride explained everything in layman’s terms and took the time to answer all of our questions. My mother underwent a 13.5 hour surgery and although the recovery has been difficult at times (as expected) he has been there every step of the way. Communication is always a concern when you are not in the same city as your surgeon. Not the case with Dr McBride. You are able to communicate via email if you choose and he and his office ALWAYS respond in a timely manner. All of Dr McBrides staff is great but Camille stands out the most. She is a key player in coordinating everything and making sure that all of your concerns are addressed in a timely manner. They take GREAT PRIDE in the work that they deliver. There was a time presurgery when we were unsure if my mom would be able to walk or ever live pain free again. Dr McBride has given her back her life and the ability to enjoy her grandchildren again. Her pain free days and the smile on her face are priceless. THANK YOU DR MCBRIDE!

Impressive staff. They have coffee and waters in the waiting area.
Dr mcBride was friendly and straightforward about what happened. Highly skilled and a very like able doctor. If you’re looking for a doctor that will hold your hand, try a different one. I liked the honest answers and his background is impressive.
Be advised. Appointments take about 1 – 2 months

Dr Langston Holly is the most incompetent spine surgeon. Firstly, he is practicing spine surgery from the Medieval times. I met one of his patient’s while I was waiting to see him for my spine problem. This patient looked like he was overly aggressively treated, as opposed to the minimal invasive procedures other spine surgeons perform in the country. During my appointment Dr. Holly never came to my room, didn’t look at my MRI whatsoever. And I only met with a resident who said they do not do perform the minimal invasive techniques I was inquiring about. They were willing to offer a posterior fusion with Rods instead, is what the resident said!

So far I’m impressed.
Called with MRI films and they were able to get me in the same day after talking to the doc. They are currently 3 weeks out on appointments.
Called other doctors in the area and they seemed to not care at all.
The office is very busy and runs behind from what I’ve noticed so far.

I have been a patient of Dr. Jae Jung for the past year and he has really helped me with my multitude of back issues. He has listened to my concerns and answered my many questions. I also want to acknowledge Dr. Jung’s assistant Monica who is always very helpful when I have a question or need to book an outpatient procedure.
The office is very busy and the wait to see Dr. Jung can be a bit long, but he is worth it.

Dr Daniel Lu was very knowledgeable and easy to talk to about my spine issue. He made every effort to discuss all the options and did not push me towards surgery.
A lot of surgeons will only push you toward surgery but not Dr. Lu. I think if you have a problem with your spine you should talk to a neurosurgeon like him who won’t push you towards a treatment that may not help you.
That being said, he was very willing to talk about surgical options when I asked. He has a PhD as well as a medical doctor degree and is involved with research and really knows his stuff.
He answered all my questions and really made me feel like you value my input and was really listening to me.
The office staff was very kind and courteous. I didn’t wait very long at all for my appointment.
Naomi was amazing and helping coordinating my appointment and was really helpful with the follow up.
Five stars!!!

Update — Dr. Holly called me to apologize if I felt he was not interested in my case & I appreciate him taking the time to call me & apologize. It does not change my opinion or review but I respect that he called.
I was referred to Dr. Holly via my amazing neurologist & I am in disbelief of how poorly Dr. Holly treated me & his lack of empathy/​interest in helping my severe neck pain.
Dr. Holly did not examine me himself (he had a resident Dr. do so) nor did he have my MRIs on the computer to go over them with me, which leads me to believe he did not review them at all. (He didn’t even glance at my MRI results)
The first words out of Dr. Holly’s mouth were «you’re not a candidate for surgery» after being in the room for no less than two seconds.
Dr. Holly insisted I try steroid injections, which I can’t do because I am allergic to steroids.
Dr. Holly didn’t seem to understand, or care, that I’ve exhausted ALL my resources & tried most, if not all, pain management options hence why I’m seeking a surgeons opinion.
He had NO suggestions for long term pain relief.
Dr. Holly also said in the most patronizing manner that «bone spurs are not life threatening» — um, okay Dr. Holly perhaps not, but the pain in my neck has severely affected my quality of life.
My overall impression was that Dr. Holly could not be bothered to help my severe pain, his suggestions were poor & vague and he didn’t take adequate time to examine me, he didn’t even bother to ask about my medical history.
I don’t usually leave such harsh reviews but I’ve never encountered a Dr. that can walk into a room & say right off the bat «you aren’t a candidate for surgery» followed by zero long term pain relief suggestions or answers to why I get a vasovagal response when I turn my neck to the right.
Bottom line, seeing Dr. Holly was a waste of time. I wish I could get my $ 40 co-​pay back because I left the office crying due to his arrogance/​ignorance & crass bedside manner.

I have had treatment for a lower back problem for some time with little to no results until… I met Dr. Jung a couple years ago. Dr. Jung is a genius when it comes to treatment of the lower spine and back area. My pain free days would extend much longer if I did not do things like gardening and other strenuous work that puts added pressure on my lower back. I am so pleased with the treatment from him. The first time I had the back injections several people who were in beds in the same area waiting or returning from the treatment told me how wonderful he was. He has a great spirit and very caring for his patients. Dr. Linda Drake

DR jung at ucla spine center is a horrible doctor. i’m so sorry for ucla for having such doctor practice under their name. i strongly suggest to anyone who is in back pain not to go there for treatment. i will not get into details but omit going to Dr. jung.

**REVIEW FOR DR. LANGSTON HOLLY**
Dr. Holly is my savior!!!
After being diagnosed with a several back conditions and seeing multiple doctors and pain management specialists, I had enough. I called and made an appointment with Dr. Holly and was scene a week later!
The wait in the office can be long, no doubt — I think I waited over an hour; but I imagine this is because these are surgeons that spend their time seeing patients and performing surgery. It is by no means an indication of poor service from the Surgeons, in my opinion. Expect to wait a while, nothing’s perfect.
When I first met Dr. Holly it was after one of his residents met with me; we did some basic tests and discussed my situation. Dr. Holly reviewed an MRI I had six months prior (if you have one older than six months, you may need a new one), and more in-​depth than with my previous doctor. He explained it in a way that I could understand but also in a way that made me upset that my previous doctor was very nonchalant. After a lot of questions, on both sides, and after discussing how previous conservative treatments were useless, he recommended surgery.
A lot of people will say that surgeons will always recommend surgery, in this case, Dr. Holly provided enough evidence that surgery was key; not routine injections in the spine from a drug not approved by the FDA.
Surgery was scheduled for two weeks later — I was nervous but relieved.
I will review the hospital on their page, but I give the UCLA Spine Center 5 stars because of Dr. Holly; YES you will wait a while once you get an appointment, but its worth it. YES, parking isnt cheap (cash or check), but a little patience looking for street parking is worth it.

Starting with positive…
Dr. Ignatius (Ph.D) was one of the best young doctors I’ve ever dealt with. He diagnosed my problem after 12 years of being told I didn’t have a problem that could be helped. Unfortunately he is somehow tied to this place.
And now the review of this place:
Dr. Jung was one of the most patronizing, dismissive, arrogant prats. When I tried to switch over to Dr. Fish, I was told Dr. Fish would not see me because they didn’t want patients changing doctors. This suggests that patients feel the need to do that quite a bit here.
Now that I’ve read reviews, I’ll make sure my primary care doctor knows the story and avoids this place with other patients.
The office staff is also among the worst I’ve dealt with, which suggests they are not happy either. Since this type of thing tends to flow top down, I’d avoid this place from Dr. Fish on down to parking in their lot.

Negative Stars– I am a UCLA gal all the way, so this is super disappointing. I saw Dr. Shamie for the exact same conditions as are listed in his video testimonial on the Spine Center website. Yes, a major factor in my choosing him. I have had migraines, numbness, shooting pains and for the last three years constant headaches and neck pain that pain pills can barely touch. I am no longer able to work as a hairstylist due to the pain which leaves me vomiting for days after one hair session. Here’s the big difference, I am a WOMAN. Despite my 20 year UCLA documentation of drugs, ER visits, failed procedures and my loving hubbies back up. This guy has the NERVE to suggest that «I go home and rest and try another profession and perhaps it will go away». Yes friends, those are quotes. I ask you, would this statement ever be made to a man? Run Ladies, you’re too smart for this guy.

The office is looks nice but all others are not. Before to scheduled my time to see doctor they asked all my information but never answer my copay question. The doctor only gave me 5 minutes for the meeting but I have to waited one hour. After saw the doctor, his assistant asked me fill out all the paper work and told me to they will call me to schedule a time surgery and discuss the co-​payment. She left a phone number for me before I know it is a joke, it is a voice mail only phone number and never reply to me. I got a letter for the bill, $ 885. I fell guilty to my insurance company to pay so much money and get nothing. I feel like GRAB-​AND-​RUN.
Compare to USC spine center, the doctor discussed with me all the possibilities and show me all the details of my MRI scan. The bill is $ 260.
The funny thing is a USC spine center’s directory was a UCLA spine center’s directory. The USC doctor is a professor director and the UCLA doctor is not.
Right now I trust health insurance company more for their doctors list.
If you need find a doctor, my suggestion is check your insurance company doctor’s list and check Unilocal also.

I wouldn’t recommended this place to anyone. They waited until the day before surgery for the nurse, admissions/​billing to call me. The information didn’t match what I had been told by the doctor. I made phone calls to the doctor and hospital and was treated very poorly. I cancelled surgery and would never go there again. The doctor didn’t call me back for two days. I guess his highness was too busy to be bothered. The entire experience was very unprofessional.
The doctor won’t even provide medical information to me for my new doctor. Thanks for nothing Dr. Lu.

I went to the Spine Center and saw Dr. McBride for multiple back problems. He corrected each one in surgery that went really well. Before the surgery, I couldn’t walk very far, other than a few painful steps. I also couldn’t sit without pain. Nine months after surgery., I walk very easily, 45 minutes and can sit as long as I like. Dr. McBride gave me a new lease on life.

I reviewed all the doctors at the UCLA Spine Center in SM and saw Dr. Fish listed as «Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation». Non-​invasisve I was hoping, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation was just what I was hoping for. But when I went in and he didn’t seem interested in my condition as he said «I am here basically to screen for people who need surgery». I would say he needs to work on the bedside manner a bit. What a waste of my 25 $ copay! I think the center should be renamed UCLA SPINAL SURGERY CENTER. non-​surgical candidates need not apply.

Would not recommend this place to anyone. Thankfully we got several other opinions and consultations before finding the right doctor. This doctor suggested a procedure that was overly aggressive for what the patient needed.
Was not impressed at all.
Sad, since it has the UCLA name.
Shop around. Dr. Bray in Marina Del Rey and Dr. Johnson at Cedars are better spine surgeons.