Dr. Branko Skovrlj, MD

Dr. Branko Skovrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock smiling at the camera at NU‑Spine, board‑certified, fellowship‑trained spine neurosurgeons providing expert care in NJ, PA, and FL.

NU‑Spine Welcomes Dr. Robert J. Rothrock, MD as Partner with Founder Dr. Branko Skovrlj

NU‑Spine is proud to welcome Dr. Robert J. Rothrock, MD as a partner, joining Dr. Branko Skovrlj, MD, the founder of NU‑Spine. Together, these two board‑certified, fellowship‑trained spine neurosurgeons lead NU‑Spine’s surgical care with a shared mission: to accurately diagnose and treat neck and spine conditions and help patients return to a life free of […]

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Person at home experiencing pain between the shoulders

Thoracic Microdiscectomy: Why Mid-Back Herniations Are Different

Microdiscectomy is the gold standard treatment for disc herniation. When disc problems arise in the thoracic spine, however, it can be difficult for patients to find the treatment they need. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, performs thoracic microdiscectomy and other spine procedures at locations near you throughout New Jersey. Learn why thoracic microdiscectomy is difficult to

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Lumbar pedicle screws with rotating heads on white background

Dynamic Stabilization vs. Laminectomy: What Evidence Says

With so many spine procedures available, it is difficult to know which type of spine surgery is best for lumbar spinal stenosis. This is why it’s important for patients to choose an experienced surgeon who can help them understand their options. Here, NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, with multiple locations in New Jersey, explores

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Person holding neck in pain while sitting at home

Cervical Discectomy vs. Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy: How We Decide

Cervical nerves relay vital information between the brain and the rest of the body. When these nerves become compressed, this function is impeded, resulting in pain, numbness, and loss of function. Patients who struggle with a pinched cervical nerve can find care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, providing a wide range of spine

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Couple holding hands while making medical decision at doctor’s office

Thoracic Hemilaminectomy vs. Laminectomy: Indications & Recovery

Planning for spine surgery is a big step. There are often several options to consider, and choosing the correct one is key to finding relief. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, with several locations in New Jersey, offers a full range of spine surgeries to ensure patients access to the right treatment. Here, we

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Doctor pointing to spinal disc on bone model

Lumbar Microdiscectomy vs. Endoscopic Discectomy: Key Differences

When pursuing care for a painful spine condition, most patients want the assurance that they will receive the best available treatment. Both lumbar microdiscectomy and endoscopic discectomy are proven procedures to treat lumbar disc herniation. Differences in their methodologies, however, result in changes in the expected recovery time and outcome. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute,

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Concept art of spinal cord stimulator implant

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial vs. Permanent Implant

A spinal cord stimulator implant can provide relief for treatment-resistant pain. While choosing this route is a significant decision, it’s important to remember that these devices are not effective for everyone. This is why the treatment process begins with a trial period during which patients can test the therapy without making permanent changes. NU-Spine: The Minimally

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Senior person at home holding neck in pain

Cervical Laminectomy Risks and How MIS Lowers Them

Cervical laminectomy can provide immediate and long-lasting relief from spine pain. Though patients may hesitate to seek treatment out of concern for the risks of surgery, advanced techniques have made laminectomies safer than ever. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides cervical laminectomy and other spine procedures at locations throughout New Jersey. Here, we discuss the

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Jessica smiling pain-free after successful minimally invasive neck surgery with Dr. Branko Skovrlj at NU-Spine

From Chronic Pain to Physical Freedom: Jessica’s Life-Changing Journey with NU-Spine

For many people living with chronic pain, life is measured in “breaks.” A break to sit down while cooking dinner, a break from playing with the kids because the ache is too much, or even a two-year break from doing your own hair because you simply can’t lift your arms. This was the reality for

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Close-up image of spinal fusion implant

Cervical Revision Surgery: Why Fusions Fail and How We Fix Them

Patients plan for spine surgery with the expectation of relief. When pain continues after treatment, many patients may feel discouraged and overwhelmed. Fortunately, failed cervical fusion can be repaired. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, with locations throughout New Jersey, offers spinal revision surgery to help patients get back to pain-free living. Key Takeaways Cervical spinal

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