Cervical & Lumbar Reconstruction
Disc arthroplasty, hybrid constructs, and multi-level fusion for degenerative disease, deformity, and instability affecting the cervical or lumbar spine.
Orthopaedic Spine Surgery in New York City
30 Years of Care and Compassion
Dr. Andrew A. Merola | Board-Certified Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Andrew A. Merola, MD is an Orthopedic spine surgeon with more than three decades of complex operative leadership, academic appointments, and direct physician-to-patient care in New York City.
As featured in
About Dr. Merola
Dedicated to Precision, Compassion, and Long-Term Partnership
Dr. Merola focuses on personal care with unhurried appointments, prompt access to care, direct physician communication, and hands-on coordination across every step of treatment. Patients value the discretion and trust that come from being treated as a person, not a number. He does not rely on physician extenders — every patient meets with Dr. Merola directly, in person.
Recognized by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. as one of America’s Top Doctors, Dr. Merola stands among the top seven percent of physicians nationwide. The distinction reflects peer nomination, professional achievement, and proven outcomes. His care is rooted in precision, compassion, and partnership, ensuring each patient receives the same dedication he would extend to his own family.
His practice reflects the belief that exceptional outcomes begin with exceptional relationships. Patients are never rushed, always heard, and fully involved in their care plan. From conservative therapies to complex spinal reconstruction, Dr. Merola’s expertise spans the full spectrum of spine health, including scoliosis, spinal deformity, degenerative conditions, and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Clinically, Dr. Merola has served as an attending orthopaedic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian/Lower Manhattan Hospital, NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital, and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. He is widely recognized for his operative and nonoperative management of complex spinal deformity, scoliosis, and reconstructive spine surgery.
His academic career includes appointments as Assistant and Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Clinical Assistant Professor at New York Medical College, and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College. In each role he mentors residents and medical students, emphasizing the integration of research, technical mastery, and compassionate care.
Hospital appointments & certifications
- Board Certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
- Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Fellow, Scoliosis Research Society
- Attending Spine Surgeon, Weill Cornell
- Attending Spine Surgeon, NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Leadership, research & honors
- Member, Medical Society of the State of New York
- Editorial Review Board, Current Orthopaedic Practice
- News Media, Industry Magazine
- News Media, Health U.S. News
Awards & Distinctions
- Award, Castle Connolly
- Award, New York Magazine Top Doctors
- Award, Super Doctors
- Award, Russell S. Hibbs Award
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
- Italian
Areas of Expertise
Depth of experience across Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar surgery
Dr. Merola has over 30 years of clinical practice experience treating all manner of spinal issues. He has treated well over 20,000 patients during his career through both operative and non-operative care, recognizing that each situation is unique.
Navigation-Guided Minimally Invasive Surgery
Microscope-assisted decompression, tubular access surgery, and percutaneous fixation to limit blood loss and expedite recovery.
Revision & Deformity Correction
Comprehensive evaluation of failed instrumentation, adjacent segment disease, or flatback with staged reconstruction when necessary.
Non-Operative Optimization
Structured physical therapy, interventional pain management, and bone health management to delay or eliminate the need for surgical intervention.
Conditions Treated
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Procedures Performed
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Patient Philosophy
Measured decision-making and stewardship at every stage
"Every patient who walks through my door brings a unique set of challenges. My goal is to provide personalized care tailored to each individual, ensuring the best possible outcome."
- Thorough diagnosis: Imaging, electrodiagnostics, and biomechanical analysis are read directly by Dr. Merola before any treatment discussion begins.
- Measured intervention: Non-operative measures are prioritized; surgery is reserved for clear indications with defined outcomes and contingency plans.
- Long-term oversight: Structured follow-up visits, imaging review, and direct communication ensure recovery stays on course well beyond the operative window.
Initial consultation
Detailed history, imaging review, and documentation of goals establish the clinical baseline.
Case planning
Peer consultation and operative modeling finalize the plan, including contingency pathways.
Long-term follow-up
Progress is monitored through structured and timely visits to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Patient Testimonies
I can't say enough about Dr. Merola and his staff. He's a caring and compassionate person who helped me through a tough time in my life, specifically related to my back. Sometimes we don't realize how much work, time, and sacrifice a doctor puts in to give their best. Thank you, Dr. Merola.
Post operative patient, lumbar fusion
Dr. Merola is amazing. He came in on his day off to personally perform the operation. I was so scared and nervous, and he immediately took my hand and told me it was going to be okay. He was kind, caring, and compassionate. Dr. Merola came to my room every day to check on me. I couldn't thank him enough. I wouldn't trust any other doctor with my spine. He is simply the best.
Post operative patient, cervical reconstruction
Dr. Merola treats his patients with the utmost respect and is always concerned about their comfort and well-being. I recommend his services to anyone seeking a competent and caring spine surgeon.
Post operative patient, complex revision
FAQ
Answers to common questions
Preparing for your visit? Explore quick answers below or reach out directly for a personal introduction.
Comprehensive care for degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, scoliosis, fractures, and complex revision cases. Personalized guidance ensures you see the right specialist if a different discipline is required.
Yes, detailed second-opinion consultations are available in-person and virtually. Bring prior imaging and operative notes for a comprehensive review and tailored plan.
Surgery is not always needed or recommended for some patients. Non-operative optimization—structured physical therapy, interventional pain management, and bone health management—can delay surgery or support surgical readiness.
Patients should bring their insurance information, photo ID, and medical records such as MRI reports, CT scans, pain management notes, and physical therapy notes.
Contact
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Merola
Office Email:
Office Address: Flower District Office, 141 West 28th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001
Mailing Address: 567 1st Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Office Phone: (718) 783-5542