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When Dr. Nicholas Qandah founded CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery in 2018, his vision was ambitious: to build a world-class neuroscience and spine program in Central New York that could rival leading metropolitan medical centers while keeping exceptional care close to home for patients throughout the Mohawk Valley and beyond. In just a few short years, that vision has transformed into one of the region’s fastest-growing and most advanced neurosurgical and spine practices, attracting patients from across New York State seeking highly specialized care, innovative treatment options, and a more personalized approach to medicine.
A board-certified neurosurgeon with fellowship training in complex spine surgery, Dr. Qandah completed extensive training in both orthopedic and neurosurgical spine care. After earning his medical degree from Midwestern University AZCOM in Arizona, he completed his neurosurgical residency at the nationally recognized Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic before being selected for the prestigious AO Complex Spine Fellowship at the University of Washington-Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, one of the country’s premier centers for complex spine and trauma surgery.
Known to many patients simply as “Dr. Q,” he specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted brain and spine surgery, treating some of the most complex neurological and spinal conditions, including spinal cord injuries, scoliosis, vertebral fractures, degenerative spine disease, sciatica, brain injuries, and chronic neck and back pain. Under his leadership, CNY Brain & Spine has introduced advanced surgical technologies, expanded multidisciplinary neurological care across the region, and continues to invest in the future of healthcare through cutting-edge imaging, research collaboration, and innovation in patient-centered treatment.
Today, Dr. Qandah’s impact extends far beyond the operating room. Through clinical leadership, medical education, healthcare advocacy, and ongoing community involvement, he continues to redefine what is possible for neurosurgical and spine care in the Mohawk Valley, proving that patients in Central New York can access nationally competitive, high-level medical care without ever leaving the region.
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Dr. Nicholas Qandah is a board-certified neurosurgeon and founder of CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery, where he leads a comprehensive program focused on complex brain and spine care across the Mohawk Valley. He specializes in minimally invasive and deformity spine surgery, as well as advanced cranial and neurological conditions, and has been instrumental in advancing surgical techniques and technology integration throughout the region. His work focuses on improving precision, outcomes, and access to high-level neurosurgical care locally. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Qandah is actively involved in research collaboration, medical education, and regional healthcare development. He serves as a clinical leader, educator, and advocate for brain health, stroke awareness, and innovation in neuroscience. Beyond medicine, he is deeply engaged in community initiatives and works closely with organizations such as the Community Foundation to expand access to care and support the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Dr. Juleen Qandah is a highly skilled emergency medicine physician and regional leader in neuromusculoskeletal and neurologic care, known for building innovative systems that connect patients to the right specialists quickly and efficiently. As Stroke Director at Rome Health and a key clinical leader with CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery, she has helped develop a model that streamlines urgent evaluation, triage, and referral for spine, neurologic, and orthopedic conditions. She also serves as Health & Medical Editor for Mohawk Valley Living magazine and an on-air correspondent, helping bring trusted medical insight and education to the community. Through both clinical leadership and public engagement, Dr. Qandah continues to advance a more connected, patient-centered approach to care across Central New York.
Dr. Satish Krishnamurthy is a nationally respected, board-certified neurosurgeon and Professor of Neurosurgery and Biology at SUNY Polytechnic in Utica, and a practicing neurosurgeon at CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery in New Hartford. He has held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery and the Medical Executive Committee at SUNY Upstate, and has contributed nationally as Chair of the Communications and Education Committee at CSNS. A federally funded and internationally recognized researcher in hydrocephalus, Dr. Krishnamurthy continues to advance innovation, quality, and patient-centered outcomes while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and excellence in care.
Dr. M. Asad Khalid is a highly respected orthopedic surgeon and founder of CNY Orthopedics, where he provides advanced sports medicine and orthopedic care to patients across Central New York. Previously serving as Section Chief of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Oneida Health, Dr. Khalid specializes in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including ACL and meniscus tears, rotator cuff injuries, cartilage damage, arthritis, and disorders affecting the hip, knee, shoulder, foot, ankle, hand, and wrist. He also serves as a trusted team physician for several regional athletic organizations, including the Utica Comets and SUNY Morrisville. Known for his patient-centered philosophy and commitment to innovation, Dr. Khalid combines advanced surgical expertise with compassionate care focused on helping patients regain strength, mobility, and performance.
Alexander Carangelo PA-C was born and raised in Albany, NY and is a summa cum laude graduate of The Sage Colleges with his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. Alex obtained his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Albany Medical College in Albany, New York, graduating in 2011. Alex initially joined Capital Region Neurosurgery in Slingerlands, NY as a P.A. for the next six years. He also gained diverse medical experience working in the Emergency Department at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY during this time. Alex moved to New Hartford to work with Dr. Qandah and CNY Brain & Spine in 2017. Alex has privileges at both St. Elizabeth and St. Lukes hospitals.
Alex is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, North American Spine Society, National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. He is trained in BLS, ACLS, ? His special interests lie in minimally invasive surgery and cutting edge laser therapy. Alex’s approaches his patients as if they are family with a goal of getting patients back to the hobbies they enjoy without long term restrictions.
His personal hobbies include family time with his beautiful wife Emma, son Tino, daughter Ellie and Mini goldendoodle Messi as well as baseball, boxing, and running.
Kevin Gehr PA-C is a graduate of Le Moyne College with his Bachelor of Science in Biology. Kevin received his certification in nuclear medicine technology from Lancaster General College in 2008 and worked in nuclear medicine for the next three years at the New York Heart Center of Syracuse. Kevin obtained his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at his alma mater Le Moyne college, graduating in 2013. Kevin initially joined the Mohawk Valley Health System as a P.A. in 2013, working in orthopedic surgery specializing in trauma, total joint and hand surgery.
Kevin made the move to neurosurgery in 2018 where he has been working with Dr. Qandah at CNY Brain & Spine. Kevin has privileges at both St. Elizabeth and St. Lukes hospitals. Kevin is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, North American Spine Society, National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Kevin is trained in BLS and ACLS. When he isn’t at work, he enjoys hiking and hanging out with his dog.
Reid D. Beattie, PA-C is a local provider dedicated to delivering high-quality care in spine and neurosurgery. After experiencing a spine fracture at a young age, Reid developed a personal connection to the field and a strong desire to give back to patients facing similar challenges. Reid earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Siena College, followed by his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from SUNY Upstate Medical University. During his training, he gained clinical experience across several regional hospitals, including St. Elizabeth and St. Luke’s, and completed clinical rotations with Dr. Nicholas Qandah at CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery. Reid joins CNY Brain & Spine with a collaborative, patient-focused approach and a deep commitment to the Mohawk Valley community he calls home. His clinical interests include comprehensive spine care, and he works closely with the physician team to support patients through evaluation, treatment, and recovery.
After serving as the Director of Complex Spine at the Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery for the Residency Program, Dr. Qandah returned with his family to his wife’s home town in Central New York, where they are committed to the local community.
Dr. Q currently accepts patients at five convenient locations, is the Chief of Surgery at St. Lukes hospital and also serves as medical director of Neurosciences at Rome Memorial Hospital, where he performs surgery and treats patients with neurosurgical disorders.
In addition to general neurosurgery, Dr. Q treats patients with back and neck pain, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs. He has special interest and expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spine surgery, and surgery for scoliosis.
We are highly regarded in Central New York not just by our patients, but by our colleagues.
Our entire staff will strive to make your treatment and recovery smooth.
We’ve invested in the very best equipment, staff and technology because we believe our patients deserve the best.
Top Quality Neurosurgery and Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery in Central New York, Syracuse, Schenectady, Lowville, Herkimer, Utica, New Hartford and Canton, NY.
Dr. Qandah has treated thousands of patients and has performed more than 10,000 surgeries. His speciality is neurosurgery to treat back pain, neck pain, and other neurological problems. He is recognized in the field of neurosurgery as a leader. Dr. Qandah is the current Chair of the American Board of Osteopathic Neurosurgery.
Dr. Qandah has helped develop some of the best technologies in his field of surgery. People all over the world recognize him as an expert in minimally invasive and regenerative spine procedures.
Dr. Qandah was educated in Neurosurgery, is Board Certified, and Fellowship trained in complex spinal deformity conditions, such as adult degenerative scoliosis. Reconstructing a patient’s entire spine is his forte.
His expertise and precision is better than that of some of the newest and finest technology. He also uses the latest developments in technology to improve his practice, speed healing time, optimize best outcomes, and deliver results that change patients’ lives by improving their quality of life and well-being.
Dr. Qandah has experience with a range of surgery needs and types. For the best neurosurgeon in the area, trust Dr. Qandah. Patients and their families love working with him.
The Central New York Brain and Spine Team is available for appointments at several convenient locations in the Utica area. You may also schedule your MRI at our New Hartford location