Dr. Michael J Rutigliano, MD

He would not let my wife call me during her first consultation with him to discuss a herniated disc in her neck pushing on her spinal cord despite not allowing anyone other than the patient to come to the appointment due to COVID restrictions. He presented spinal fusion as the only option without even explaining why other options would not work. A second opinion with a different neurosurgeon she was encouraged to call me for the appointment and was told that due to her age (30) that she should have a disc replacement as the fusion will most likely lead to needing more fusions at the adjacent vertebrae due to the increased risk of disc slippage above and below the fusion, especially given her age. Stay away, and if you haven't get a second opinion.

In my honest opinion, Dr. Michael Rutiliano is by far, hands down, the best in his field. I will trust no one else with my back or any other part of my body that may have neurological issues. I've heard people call him aloof and other things, this is my view. If you want a doctor who is going to tell you what you want to hear, Dr. Rutigliano is not for you. This man is a "no nonsense" doctor. He is not going to put you in danger by performing a procedure that isn't necessary. As I sad before, I trust no one else. Dr. Rutigliano is the very best! He and his staff will give you a top notch physician and clinical staff experience.

Dr. Rutigliano was referred to me after a review of my condition/complaint by my PCP and a neurologist in Johnstown. Dr. Rutigliano's facilities are clean and comfortable and the staff was delightful, courteous and clear. The wait period was short. I was seen first by the doctor's PA, a woman knowledgeable and the one who performed the entry exam. She actually conveyed information about my problem that was new to me and added to my full understanding of two issues. Dr. Rutigliano was prompt and highly professional in his presentation. It was obvious I was dealing with a specialist that had total mastery of his "art". He was also clear, answered my questions in full and seemed willing to spend whatever time I required. Beneath the surface his humor slipped through a couple times and I felt relaxed with him. He even pulled up my MRI results and offered a quick and concise spinal anatomy lesson to clear a couple wrong impressions I'd come in with. The final result was that he… didn't recommend surgery at this time, much to my immediate relief. In my opinion only an extreme professional at that level would offer that conclusion and not be predictive about my problem. I do highly recommend the good doctor and would/will return to his care if the need arises. Kudos!

This doctor's has zero bedside manners and doesn't explain things well. He is very short with his patients however his PA is very compassionate and thorough.

This was my second visit. I’ve been an RN for just 5 years short of a half of a century. I’ve seen a lot. But I’ve rarely seen a physician take such care in explaining a surgery to a patient. Doctor Rutigliano is exceptional. He’s professional without being aloof. I hope that the hospitals where he operates appreciate him. I have canceled more surgeries than I’ve actually had done. I won’t be canceling this one. I am very grateful to Pam, a very experienced and knowledgeable nurse practitioner. Answers any questions and found a way for me to get preop testing done without problems. Thanks so much.

Completely professional & knowledgeable. Took the time to explain as well as show me the MRI. Explained why I am not a candidate for laser surgery but also explained what he could do for me and the risks and benefits. I have been an RN for 45 years in 3 states and 2 countries outside of the US. I have worked with the best and the worst of physicians. I have not known Dr. Rutigliano for years but I now know him well enough to trust him with my surgery. He does not use opioids when he, with 29 years of experience, does not deem them necessary. That increases my respect for him. I found found him to be understanding and compassionate.

My husband was referred to this Dr by his oncologist...after introducing himself the first thing he said was .."so your oncologist sent you to me because of pain your having..I dont know why he sent you here...I cant really do anything"..

I've had 2 surgeries from Dr Rutingliano and both were a great success ! I had a cervical discetomy and a herniated disc in my lower back! Great Dr and great staff!! Wouldn't have any other!!

Dr Rutigliano is quite simply the best surgeon in the area. Very conservative with treatment plan. Operates only when necessary. You always are informed, confident with the decisions made on treatment plan and always has time to explain in layman's terms. Office staff is exceptional. Surgical skills are superior.

Dr. Rutigulanio is as "great" as it gets! He is defiantly in the top 10 dr. In this state! I tell everyone with problems to go to him. I have had many different operations done by him, and my recovery was amazing!! He is defiantly "THE BEST OF THE BEST"