Kevin Gill, M.D.

Meet Dr. Gill

Spine Surgeon

As one of the leading spine specialists in the world, Kevin Gill, M.D., has pioneered some of the latest advancements in evaluating and treating cervical and lumbar spine conditions and injuries. 

This includes minimally invasive spine surgery, new modular disc implants that allow for more mobility, spinal fusion surgery, and disc arthroplasty. He’s on a mission to provide the best options available to help patients regain movement and return to the activities they enjoy without debilitating back and neck pain.

"We've pioneered less-invasive procedures for the spine emphasizing less pain, quicker recovery, and superior long-term results,” says Dr. Gill. 

Because of the complexity of the bones, discs, muscles, nerves, and cartilage that make up the spine, receiving an accurate diagnosis is a major first step to resolving problems. An incorrect diagnosis can delay receiving the right course of treatment, one that has been individualized based on the patient’s back or neck problem and lifestyle. 

“Depending on the age of the patient, there are different reasons for back and neck problems,” Dr. Gill says. “For example, more disc herniations occur in patients under the age of 50. Spinal stenosis and spurs are more frequently found in patients over the age of 50.” 

Dr. Gill treats a wide range of patients, from high school gymnasts to retirees. This includes patients needing an initial diagnosis or second opinion, as well as those who need previous surgeries corrected. He currently sees patients in UT Southwestern’s Spine Center. 

Although he is an expert spine surgeon, Dr. Gill doesn’t always recommend surgery for patients. In fact, he says, most back and neck issues can be managed without surgery, using nonoperative, conservative treatment options. 

Innovative and Award-Winning Research

Dr. Gill has been a leader in evaluating the effectiveness of new technology and materials for artificial disc implants that allow for more flexibility or movement of the back. With the newer implants and minimally invasive spine surgery, he’s able to make a small incision of 1-2 inches, remove the damaged disc, and replace it with a new, artificial disc. The procedure takes about an hour to perform, and recovery is approximately one to two weeks. 

Dr. Gill participates in multiple clinical trials that investigate motion preservation implants and surgical techniques. His latest clinical trial is the "Triumph"-Globus Medical-posterior disc replacement system. 

In 1991, 1994, and 1995, he and his research group won the Volvo and Camp Awards in Clinical Sciences for International Low Back Pain Research.

In 2008, Dr. Gill’s research group received the Kappa Delta Orthopaedic Research Award from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. His work studied degenerative disc disease in identical twins that spanned 18 years. This award is among the most prestigious recognition in the world for orthopaedic surgery.