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Dr. Christopher Kauffman

Kauffman Spine Surgery is dedicated to providing personalized and effective spine care led by Dr. Christopher Kauffman, a board-certified orthopaedic spine specialist. We prioritize conservative treatment options before considering surgery, ensuring that our patients receive the most appropriate care.

Dr. Kauffman is licensed to practice medicine in the states of Tennessee, Connecticut, and California. He maintains privileges at TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center in Hendersonville, TN, TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center in Smyrna, TN, TriStar Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, TN, and at Southern Hills Medical Center in Nashville, TN.

EDUCATION AND POST-GRADUATE EXPERIENCE

B.S. Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Ithaca, NY
Major: Biology
August 1984 – May 1988

M.S. State University of New York at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
Major: Natural Sciences/Biology
August 1988 – September 1989

M.D. State University of New York – Health Science Center at Brooklyn
Brooklyn, NY
August 1989 – May 1993

Resident- Orthopaedic Surgery
University of Medicine and Dentistry New Jersey; Newark, NJ
July 1, 1993- June 30, 1998
Director: Fred F. Behrens, MD

Fellowship- Spinal Surgery
University of California at San Diego
August 1, 1998 – July 31, 1999
Director: Steven R. Garfin, MD

Practicing Spinal Surgery for over 25 years
Current Vice President of NASS [National Association of Spine Surgeons] elected to President [October 2026-October 2027]

DR. KAUFFMAN’S

Care Philosophy

Spinal problems are among the most common health problems that many people encounter and suffer with in their lifetime. These problems are significant and cause patients’ pain and disability which is stressful for both patients and their families. As a spinal surgeon my goals are to diagnose the problem and work with the patient and their family on best options for their life and health situation. I understand that spinal conditions are scary for patients and their families. My goals are to explain the conditions and goals of treatment so that patients have known goals and expected outcomes. Very often patients come with preconceived ideas and worries from seeing friends and family members who have been through treatment and surgery. All spine surgery and all surgeons are not the same. My goal is to alleviate pain and improve function so patients can return to enjoyable activities. Comprehensive treatment of spinal conditions often includes physical therapy, medications, injections and surgery when medically necessary. While surgery is seen as a last resort there are times when it is conservative management to preserve neurological function. I look forward to getting to know my patients and helping them relieve pain and resume their lifestyle.

Conservative Care First

At Kauffman Spine Surgery, we emphasize non-invasive treatment options as the first line of defense. Our approach is designed to preserve your health and only consider surgery when absolutely necessary, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.

Precision Spine Surgery

When surgical intervention is needed, we concentrate solely on the areas causing discomfort. This targeted approach minimizes recovery time and enhances the effectiveness of the procedure, allowing you to regain your quality of life more quickly.

Learn more about our services

Common Spine Procedures

CERVICAL SPINE

∙Anterior Cervical discectomy and fusion
∙Cervical disc arthroplasty
∙Cervical laminectomy
∙Cervical laminectomy and fusion
∙Laminoplasty
∙Cervical Fracture care

THORACIC SPINE

∙Laminectomy
∙Laminectomy and fusion
∙Kyphoplasty
∙Treatment of fractures

LUMBAR SPINE

∙Anterior lumbar discectomy and fusion
∙Lateral Anterior Discectomy and fusion
∙Laminectomy and discectomy
∙Laminectomy
∙Laminectomy and fusion
∙Fusion for Adult scoliosis
∙Kyphoplasty
∙Treatment of Fractures

OTHER ORTHOPAEDIC PROCEDURES

∙Hip Fracture treatment- open reduction internal fixation
∙Ankle fracture treatment
∙Tibia fracture treatment
∙Fracture treatment spine, upper and lower extremities
∙Evaluation of musculoskeletal conditions involving other joints

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Your Spine Health Journey?

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