About Me
I’m an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spine surgery. I’ve seen how the significant limitations of back and neck problems can prevent people from fully engaging in life. The opportunity to help patients through this experience; to overcome the technical and intellectual challenges of surgery; to work with a team of skilled, motivated and thoughtful colleagues; and to serve my community all inspire me. I can’t imagine being this satisfied doing anything else.
A neck or back problem can be an intimidating obstacle for patients to handle for many reasons, from the severe limitations from associated pain, to the gravity of treatment decisions. I treat every patient like family as it’s a simple, but powerful way to ensure that we’ve thoughtfully considered all options in their unique situation. Furthermore, if we agree that surgery is the best alternative, our entire operative experience is supported by an excellent spine team and the impressive resources of Ohio State.
In research, my primary interest is directing the bone-healing process through modulation of the inflammatory cascade. I’m also interested in better defining the relationship between inflammation in the peripheral nervous system and the generation of radiculopathy and chronic pain.
Most physicians select their specialty, at least in part, based on their training experience and relationships with the attending surgeons who participated in their education. I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by very thoughtful, experienced and engaging mentors who have been great role models and challenged me to grow both professionally and personally. Specifically, they collectively demonstrated the profound satisfaction that comes from selfless service. Academic medicine uniquely promotes these pursuits, and I look forward to a full career of service to my patients, to my community, to my trainees, to my partners and to the field of spine surgery.
If I’m not in the hospital or clinic, I’m usually spending time with my family.
Procedures and Conditions I Treat
- Spinal Diseases
- Spinal Injuries
- Orthopedics
- Back Pain
- Osteoarthritis, Spine
- Spinal Fractures
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spinal Cord Compression
Locations Where I Practice
543 Taylor Ave.
Columbus, OH 43203
300 W. 10th Ave.
Columbus, OH 43210
543 Taylor Ave.
1st Floor Columbus, OH 43203
Please note: Not all physicians schedule patients at each listed location. Please call the “Schedule an appointment” number shown above for scheduling assistance.
Education and Training
Education History
Medical School
Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
MD
8/1/2009 - 5/5/2013
Residency
West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV
7/1/2013 - 6/30/2019
Fellowship
University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinic, Madison, WI
8/1/2019 - 7/30/2020
Academic Information
My Department
Orthopaedics
Reviews
The overall patient satisfaction rating is an average of all patient responses to the six doctor communication related questions shown below from the Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey. For additional information about the patient satisfaction survey, please visit our Patient Satisfaction Survey page.
The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their view and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
32 Patient Satisfaction Reviews
Consulting and Related Relationships
At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, we support a faculty member’s research and consulting in collaboration with medical device, research and/or drug companies because a faculty member’s expertise can guide important advancements in the practice of medicine and improve patient care. In order to provide effective management of these relationships, the University requires annual disclosures from all faculty members with external interests related to their University responsibilities.
As of 11/01/2020, Dr. Karnes has reported relationships with the companies or entities listed below. If you have questions about the relationships listed below, please ask the faculty member. If you have questions about how these relationships are monitored by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, please contact our Compliance Office.
I'm 51 years old with a bad back and bad hips. I've seen my fair share of doctors because I'm very active. It was simply the best interaction I've had with a doctor. He gave me all of my options. He asked about my lifestyle in an effort to recommend a course of action. I think you could message that guy on MyChart about a family member, not even myself, and the guy would help you. OSU is lucky to have him.
1st time seeing him & it was great. Much more attentive & caring than my previous dr.
Great.
dr. Karnes is amazing. he is professional, caring and very attentive. the best bedside <span class='highlight hasPHI'>manor</span> I've had with any of my specialist throughout my life.
Dr. Karnes was caring & concerned about my injury. He explained everything in words I could understand thoroughly.
Very likable. Was very cautious with every approach of my pending treatment since he was already well versed with my complicated medical history. Gathering information and ordering tests for my future visit. I had a question after my visit and he noted me to answer my question completely. First visit with this provider and he was very thorough in a short amount of time. I really liked him
communicated in a straightforward, understandable, and insightful way. listened very well.
Dr Karnes answered all questions, gave two surgery options and explained the next steps to take very effectively.
very theoughal
Dr. Karnes is the kind of doctor that puts me at ease. He listened and made sure all my questions were answered. I felt very cared for.