UC San Diego Neurosurgeon Marc Schwartz Named Castle Connolly Top Doctor for Eighth Time

Dr. Marc S. Schwartz, a neurological surgeon at UC San Diego Health, has been named a 2024 Castle Connolly Top Doctor, marking his eighth year receiving this prestigious honor. This recognition places Dr. Schwartz among an elite group of physicians, as only about 7 percent of licensed doctors in the nation are selected annually as Castle Connolly Top Doctors in their specialties and regions.

Specializing in complex cranial conditions, Dr. Schwartz's practice focuses on treating patients with various brain, skull base, and intradural spine tumors, including acoustic neuromas, meningiomas, and tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). As co-director of the Acoustic Neuroma Program at UC San Diego Health, he has performed over 3,000 operations for acoustic neuroma patients, the largest experience of any currently practicing neurosurgeon in the United States.

Dr. Schwartz's expertise extends to groundbreaking procedures such as auditory brainstem implants (ABIs) for patients with NF2-related deafness. Working alongside neurotologist Dr. Rick Friedman, he has conducted over 100 ABI procedures, the highest number among practicing neurosurgeons in the country. This innovative treatment offers hope for hearing preservation in patients where traditional hearing aids or cochlear implants are ineffective.

The repeated recognition of Dr. Schwartz as a Top Doctor underscores the significance of his contributions to neurosurgery and patient care. His approach, which considers both the medical condition and the individual patient, emphasizes personalized care and comprehensive discussion of all treatment options. This patient-centered philosophy, combined with his extensive experience, positions Dr. Schwartz as a leader in his field.

Dr. Schwartz's achievements highlight the advancements in neurosurgical treatments available at UC San Diego Health. His work not only benefits individual patients but also contributes to the broader field of neurosurgery, potentially influencing treatment approaches and outcomes for complex cranial conditions nationwide. The consistent recognition by Castle Connolly, based on peer nominations and rigorous selection processes, further validates the impact and quality of Dr. Schwartz's work in the medical community.