Cervical Disc Replacement

Certified Review

“Sometimes life takes us down a path we never expected, only to lead us exactly where we need to be. I believe that is what happened when my journey led me to Dr. Cuellar.

I share my story in the hope that it may help others facing the anxiety and uncertainty that come with a difficult medical diagnosis.

My journey began with a misdiagnosis and an inability to get the answers I needed. During my research, I discovered cervical disc replacement—something I didn't even know existed. In Cincinnati, where I live, cervical fusion is much more commonly recommended. At 76 and still very active, I knew I needed to explore every option.

My father-in-law, a beloved orthopedic surgeon, always told me, “Get a second opinion. Surgery is the last resort, not the first. Keep asking questions.” So I did. My search eventually led me to Dr. Cuellar in Palm Beach, Florida, just 45 minutes from my Florida home. He had been part of one of the first teams in California to perform cervical disc replacement, and his experience immediately impressed me. But his résumé—about as thick as a King James Bible—only tells part of the story. Within the first five minutes of meeting him, I knew I was in the hands of an exceptionally gifted surgeon.

More importantly, I knew I was in the hands of a man who genuinely cared. Dr. Cuellar has an extraordinary intellect, remarkable surgical skill, and superb hands. But what truly sets him apart is his heart. He listens. He explains. He answers your questions. He takes the time to understand not just your condition, but you.

And then there is his incredible team.

Rachael was my first point of contact, and from that very first interaction, I knew I was in good hands. Ashley and Tiffany, the surgical coordinators, were exceptional throughout the entire process. They were kind, patient, compassionate, organized, incredibly responsive and always available. They were always on point, always willing to answer a question, and somehow seemed to stay one step ahead of what

I needed. In a situation that can feel overwhelming, they made me feel cared for, informed, and never alone.

That level of personal attention is rare, and it made an enormous difference in my experience.

At 76, I didn't want someone simply to treat my spine. I wanted someone who understood that I still have a very active life and wanted to preserve it. Dr. Cuellar understood that immediately.

I believe the Lord blessed Dr. Cuellar with the intellect and surgical ability to do extraordinary things, but He also gave him a heart and soul that make him an exceptional human being.

I went looking for a surgeon. I found a surgeon I trust, a doctor I respect, an extraordinary team, and a man for whom I will always be grateful.

If you are facing a cervical spine diagnosis and wondering where to turn, my advice is simple: do your research, ask questions, seek a second opinion, and meet Dr. Cuellar.”

EDWARD N.

Certified Review

“The process of rebuilding my life after I was hit in my truck while stopped was a long and confusing one. The least confusing part of the entire experience was when I made the decision to take the next step with Dr. Cuéllar and his team. The early (and continued) communications with Tiffany, Ashley and Rachel ensured that I was very comfortable with the steps that would need to be observed in order to complete the surgery. At no point in this process was I ever left wondering what the next step was going to be. Dr. Cuéllar is a phenomenal surgeon with a terrific bedside manner. He is providing a service that is rare in the United States and he very much excels at that craft. I had two discs replaced at L4-L5, L5-S1 at JFK in West Palm Beach. I am on my recovery path and am already in significantly less pain than I was in before the surgery. Thank you very much to everyone at Cuéllar Spine that was able to work together and bring back the life that I’d previously known.”

JOSEPH T.

Certified Review

“The process of rebuilding my life after I was hit in my truck while stopped was a long and confusing one. The least confusing part of the entire experience was when I made the decision to take the next step with Dr. Cuéllar and his team. The early (and continued) communications with Tiffany, Ashley and Rachel ensured that I was very comfortable with the steps that would need to be observed in order to complete the surgery. At no point in this process was I ever left wondering what the next step was going to be. Dr. Cuéllar is a phenomenal surgeon with a terrific bedside manner. He is providing a service that is rare in the United States and he very much excels at that craft. I had two discs replaced at L4-L5, L5-S1 at JFK in West Palm Beach. I am on my recovery path and am already in significantly less pain than I was in before the surgery. Thank you very much to everyone at Cuéllar Spine that was able to work together and bring back the life that I’d previously known.”

ANDREW D.