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
- Back Pain
- Osteoarthritis, Spine
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spinal Cord Compression
- Orthopedics
- Spinal Fractures
Locations Where I Practice
543 Taylor Avenue
Columbus, OH 43203
300 West 10th Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210
543 Taylor Avenue
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
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.
