You have questions about back and neck pain? Brain and spine health? At MBSP, we have the answers. Ask us anything and we will give you thorough and candid answers.

What is Maryland Brain, Spine + Pain (MBSP)?

Headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, MBSP is a leading authority on pain management, and minimally invasive surgical treatment of brain and spine conditions.

Since 1984, MBSP’s neurosurgeons have been successfully treating disorders of the brain and spine using the latest diagnostic technologies and surgical techniques. We treat even the most complex back and neck ailments, including sports injuries, concussions, sciatica and herniated discs. In 2014, we added a pain management discipline to our outstanding neurosurgical capabilities – all focused on stopping your pain.

What makes MBSP so special?

We excel at bringing you relief of pain and peace of mind. We have a unique patient approach that is personal, warm and accessible. We encourage dialogue and lots of questions, and we will spend the time it takes to give you answers.

Our procedures are so innovative that, in many cases, we are the only medical group in the Annapolis area offering them (i.e. spinal cord stimulators, certain endoscopic techniques.)

Why should I choose a neurosurgeon when I need help with neck or back pain?

A neurosurgeon’s experience working in and around the spinal cord minimizes the chance of nerve injury and additional pain.

Neurosurgeons are specifically trained to work on the delicate structures surrounding the spinal cord. As the body’s central nervous system, the spinal cord conveys signals from the brain to nerves coming from, and leading to, all parts of the body along its entire length.

If you want the peace of mind of entrusting your well-being to a physician skilled in all areas of the spine, choose a neurosurgeon.

I heard that all surgeons want to do is operate – Is this true at MBSP?

No. The entire medical team at MBSP is devoted to the philosophy of “surgery as a last recourse; not a first choice.” Less than 10% of our patients need any kind of surgery to help alleviate their pain.

Our goal is to provide patients with the most up-to-date care to relieve pain and hasten recovery. We explore every pain management treatment available before we consider surgery.

What is MBSP most well-known for?

We are most widely recognized as specialists in pain management methodologies minimally invasive surgery, and the ability to return our patients to full function. Our medical team of neurosurgeons and pain specialists is the best in the Mid-Atlantic region, known for exploring new and innovative technologies to bring peace of mind and relief of pain to patients.

We are also known for treating our patients holistically: which means approaching our patients both professionally and personally to stop the pain; bringing healing, improved functionality, and a better quality of life.

How can I get answers to my urgent questions or concerns?

MBSP cares about providing patients with peace of mind and relief of pain at all times. There is always someone available to help you.

In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.

8:00am – 4:30pm: Call us at (410) 266-2720, and our trained staff will help you.

After hours: For urgent problems but not emergency, call (443) 481-1000 to have our physician-on-call paged.

Where are you located? What are your office hours?

MBSP welcomes patients at our Annapolis office, 1000 Bestgate Rd, Suite 400, Annapolis, MD 21401.  We see patients from 8:00am-4:30pm Monday thru Thursday, 8:00am-4:00pm Friday

What physicians comprise the medical team?

Our staff of doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners possess extraordinary knowledge in back and neck pain conditions.

  • Brian J. Sullivan, M.D., Neurosurgeon
  • Gary A. Dix, M.D., Neurosurgeon
  • Dr. LeeAnn Rhodes, M.D., Pain Management
  • Meet the team!

What are the specialties of the physicians?

Dr. Sullivan – Neurosurgeon

  • New techniques for spine surgery and has lectured on head injuries in sports and return-to-play guidelines.
  • Conducted FDA trials for the Bryan Disc Prosthesis, a surgical alternative to cervical spine surgery
  • Trained in skull base neurosurgery (including pituitary tumors)
  • One of few surgeons in the Annapolis area to use neuronavigational instrumentation such as the Vector Vision system
  • Only surgeon in the region using Coflex technology

Dr. Dix – Neurosurgeon

  • Complex spine and brain disorders, incorporating the use of the latest minimally invasive procedure
  • Stereotactic radiosurgery to non-invasively treat conditions of the brain and spine
  • Only physician in the Annapolis area to use iFuse technology

Dr. Rhodes – Pain Management

  • Comprehensively treats patients with painful conditions, including musculoskeletal and spine disorders
  • Board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology
  • Pain Medicine Fellowship
  • Conservative treatment expert

How do I know which Doctor to ask for?

When you call in to schedule a appointment, our trained staff will work with you on selecting the best physician to treat your condition.

How do I make an appointment?

Call (410) 266-2720. Please bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s) with you. You will need to complete medical and authorization forms prior to your visit. If you are a new patient, please read the New Patient Information.