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About 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.

He is part of comprehensive spine care at UC San Diego Health, recognized by the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery (ACSS), an honor that is based on a health care organization's commitment to providing safe and excellent care, and advancing patient outcomes.

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.

UC San Diego Health Links
For more information, see Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

Insurance Information
UC San Diego Health accepts most major health insurance plans, but you should verify that your plan covers this provider and all services and locations. The information in the link below does not apply to affiliate providers, who are not employed by UC San Diego Health.
Health Insurance Plans Accepted

Medical Degree

  • Creighton University, School of Medicine, Omaha, NE

Fellowship

  • Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL

Residency

  • UC San Diego, School of Medicine, San Diego, CA

Gender

  • Male

Date Joined Staff

  • 2008-11-21

Board Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
  • General Orthopaedics

Conditions and Treatments

  • Complex Adult Deformity/Scoliosis
  • Complex Disorders of Upper Cervical Spine
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
  • Scoliosis
Insurance Information
UC San Diego Health accepts most major health insurance plans, but you should verify that your plan covers this provider and all services and locations. The information in the link below does not apply to affiliate providers, who are not employed by UC San Diego Health.
Health Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Orthopedics