Best Neurosurgeons and Brain Surgeons in Olympia, WA

Alon Orlev, MD, is neurosurgeon fellowship-trained in neurosurgical oncology, minimally invasive skull base neurosurgery, and cerebrovascular neurosurgery. Dr. Orlev loves to help solve complex surgical problems his patients face. He emphasizes patient education and seeks to ensure his patients feel empowered to make the best decisions for their health. Dr. Orlev served as a cerebrovascular and skull base neurosurgeon at the largest academic neurosurgery department in Israel. He also served as the residency program director. He has an interest and growing experience in using innovative technology that allows precise, minimally invasive neurosurgical treatment of cranial lesions. Prior to beginning his journey in medicine, Dr. Orlev served as a helicopter pilot and flight instructor in the Israeli Airforce, where his experience making high-stakes, swift decisions now guides him in daily critical operative decision-making. Away from work, he loves to spend as much time as possible with his family, on the water or on the ski slopes. He also enjoys flying and hiking.

I enjoy getting to know my patients, not just their neurosurgical problems. This helps me understand how an individual's health problem is impacting their life. My focus is always to provide treatment with the ultimate goal of returning patients to the activities they enjoy.

Seong-Jin Moon, MD, is a neurosurgeon who diagnoses and treats conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spine and nerves, with special interest in minimally invasive keyhole techniques for both brain and spine surgery. He employs the latest technology in both minimally invasive brain and spine surgery to achieve the best overall outcome. As a former patient, Dr. Moon understands what it means to be vulnerable and will endeavor to deliver the utmost care as if each patient were his own family member. Dr. Moon is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons. Outside of work, Dr. Moon enjoys spending time with his family, piano performance and travel.

Dr. Halpin is a native of Olympia and graduated from Capital High School before attending Brown University in Rhode Island where he earned a degree in Chemistry with Honors. He graduated medical school from Northwestern University and remained there to complete a residency in the Department of Neurological Surgery. During that time he also spent one year doing advanced training in complex spinal deformity and minimally invasive spine surgery. Dr. Halpin was awarded the Susan Perlman award during his chief resident year, given to the senior resident who best exemplifies academic excellence, special leadership skills, and compassion for patients. He joined Olympia Orthopaedic Associates in 2011 and sees patients in our Westside location. Dr. Halpin is a member of the South Sound Gamma Knife® Team at St. Joseph.

I enjoy getting to know my patients, not just their neurosurgical problems. This helps me understand how an individual's health problem is impacting their life. My focus is always to provide treatment with the ultimate goal of returning patients to the activities they enjoy.

Christine Hammer, MD, is a neurosurgeon who specializes in adult spine neurosurgery. She treats degenerative conditions, tumors, cysts and Chiari malformations; implants spinal cord stimulators, pain pumps and shunts; and performs arthroplasty and laminoplasty. Dr. Hammer pursues an evidence-based, comprehensive care plan that has been individualized to each patient in order to address their unique needs. While she has trained with the most advanced tools and technology, she understands the circumstances that indicate when a minimally invasive or open surgical approach should be used. Dr. Hammer is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons and Counsel of State of Neurological Societies. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and being active.