About Me
I’m a neurosurgeon specializing in the treatment of adult spinal deformity and complex reconstructive spine surgery. I also serve as an assistant professor of neurosurgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. I received my medical degree from the University of Nebraska. In addition, I completed an internship and a neurosurgical residency at the University of Iowa and a fellowship in adult spinal deformity from Northwestern University.
My research focuses on spinal biomechanics, clinical outcomes research and device development, and I have three U.S. patents. I’m also a member of The Ohio State Neurological Society and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.
What I enjoy most about The Ohio State University is the academic setting. I can be involved in resident education and research while providing my patients with quality care. The resources and medical experts on staff at The Ohio State University allow me to conduct meaningful research and provide better treatment options to my patients.
Highlights
- Published in more than 28 peer-reviewed journals
Procedures and Conditions I Treat
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Sprains and Strains
- Intervertebral Disc Displacement
- Spinal Curvatures
- Kyphosis
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
- Spinal Fractures
- Spinal Injuries
- Scoliosis
- Spinal Cord Compression
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
- Back Pain
- Low Back Pain
- Lumbar Vertebrae
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spinal Diseases
Locations Where I Practice
1800 Zollinger Road
Columbus, OH 43221
614-293-2920
6700 University Boulevard
Dublin, OH 43016
614-814-7777
Please note: Not all physicians schedule patients at each listed location.
Education and Training
Education History
Medical School
University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
8/22/2005 - 5/1/2009
Internship
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA
7/1/2009 - 6/30/2010
Residency
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA
7/1/2010 - 6/30/2015
Fellowship
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA
7/1/2015 - 6/30/2016
Fellowship
Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL
1/1/2016 - 6/30/2016
Board Certification
American Board of Neurological Surgery
10/30/2020
Academic Information
My Department
Neurological Surgery
My Division
Neurological Surgery
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.
116 Patient Satisfaction Reviews
-
Overall
4.5 out of 5
-
Explains Things Carefully
4.6 out of 5
-
Listens Carefully
4.5 out of 5
-
Gives Understandable Instructions
4.6 out of 5
-
Knows My Medical History
4.3 out of 5
-
Shows Respect
4.5 out of 5
-
Time Spent Together
4.6 out of 5
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 09/30/2024, Dr. Viljoen 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.
The physician was rude, abrupt, and uncaring. While his opinion that I did not need surgery was 100% correct (confirmed by EMG a couple days later), and we were happy to hear surgery was not needed, his bedside manner was among the very worst I've ever encountered - and I see a lot of doctors. He gave his unsubstantiated opinion about what was "probably" causing my symptoms, which was a frightening potential diagnosis and 100% INcorrect. He delivered that opinion with zero compassion and literally rolled his eyes and threw up his hands when my husband and I each asked one brief question. Also, he introduced himself to my husband immediately upon entering the exam room, though I was sitting on the exam table and clearly the (female) patient. He spent under 5 minutes with us, and we left very glad that I would never need his services again. Had I needed surgery, I would have sought a different provider rather than entrust my health to this provider.
Good
Good
He never showed any kindness or compassion. He just told me I already had some permanent nerve damage and I would have to wait to treat this after cancer treatment without one single moment of care or empathy. I asked if there was anything I could do to try to keep things from getting worse. No reply. Then he tried to push me to get an MRI. Not only are they difficult for me, but he already said I wouldn't be able to get treatment until after cancer treatment. I told him no. It didn't make any sense to get it now. He ordered it anyway. He never gave any m ore detail about the permanent nerve damage. This is what I've been afraid of and why I have spent the past few years trying to get it treated. This was my first time at OSU to see a doctor, it was for a second opinion. His attitude toward me was terrible. I was visibly upset, as I have no idea how bad this will get before I can get surgery. I do not want to ever see him again.
Seemed very knowledgeable regarding my situation
Good! No nonsense ,to the point
Good
I was glad that I met my new doctor.
Super
He was very kind, caring, thorough, and professional
He wasn't as caring as I thought he would be. I asked him if I could show him on his body where my pain was, he didn't answer or move towards me. He just asked more questions. He said I had 3 options, but never explained the benefits that each option would provide to help me. I was in horrible pain when I saw him.
Did not have people skills, kinda rude. Made me feel like he did not like me
The provider was Limited knowledge of rheumatology on A. Spondylitis and only had knowledge of the advanced stages of A.S. His recommendation for treatment was concerning to patient.
Good
Quick, efficient
He was very good explaining the results of my x-rays.
Excellent
Excellent knowledge
I like how the doctor listened to my concerns. And why I have so much pain
He listened this time!
Good
He was very knowledgeable about my problem. He was really good to talk with
Knowledgeable and respectful regarding concerns.
Would recommend to others. Very good. Dr. did a great job on my back and I'm sure he will do a great job on my neck.
I felt dismissed and not listened to.
Doctor was friendly, easy to understand.
Dr Viljoen was very knowledgeable and technical. He showed me my X-ray and precisely where and what the problem was. He was caring and asked about and answered my questions
Excellent
This is my first time seeing Dr Viljoen. We discussed my spinal problems and surgery. Dr Viljoen was very kind and knowledgable
Knowledgeable and listened.
Always excellent.
Very good.
Very knowledgeable, showed his knowledge of my problem.
Concerned, confident in his area and made me feel more at ease with the serious procedure I need performed. He was quite medically capable.
He was very through
Great no waiting time explained the procedure very professional and noce
Very nice gave me as much time as I wanted. Excellent communications.
Everything about my provider was excellent and there is no complaints
Did not listen to me. Had no answers or suggestions. Blamed medical problems on other health problems that appeared after the issue I was seeing him for.