Richard Allen, MD, PhD

Richard (Todd) Allen, MD, is board-certified orthopedic surgeon with expertise in complex adult reconstruction procedures for deformity/scoliosis and tumors. He specializes in complex disorders of the upper cervical spine, including tumors and degenerative or post-traumatic conditions.

Dr. Allen also performs minimally invasive surgical procedures for vertebral fractures, as well as XLIF or DLIF, which are lateral minimally invasive approaches for anterior lumbar interbody fusions for degenerative conditions, scoliosis and trauma. He is known not only for his excellence as a spine surgeon, but for his personable bedside manner and caring communication skills with his patients and their loved ones.

As a professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. Allen is active in educating medical students, residents and fellows at UC San Diego School of Medicine. He has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed books and medical journals. He has also authored a book chapter in Advanced Reconstructive Spine for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) regarding minimally invasive treatment of vertebral fractures via kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty.

Dr. Allen completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at UC San Diego School of Medicine and a fellowship in orthopedic surgery of the spine at Rush Medical College. He earned his medical degree from Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Neb. He is board certified in general orthopaedics.

When he is not practicing medicine, Dr. Allen enjoys spending time with his family and participating in such sports as surfing, golf and basketball.

Note - Veterans Affairs patients, please call 858-552-8585. UC San Diego patients, please call 858-657-8200.

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For more information, see Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.