Dr. Stephanus Viljoen, MD

I find it hysterical people complain about 'bedside manner'. I've unfortunately have had to have too many surgeries. Worked hard, Played hard on this body. One thing is for sure, when I have to have something done surgically repaired, I want the BEST set of hands doing it.I don't need a friend, a drinking pal, or golf buddy. I want a clear cut Dr., who is far and away one of the best in his field, and this guy is it! Is he stoic, is he curt, does he have flat personality? YES, to all the above. Do I care? Not one single rip! When You're getting your back cut open to have six screws, two rods, and spacers put into the spinal column, you should seek and best set of hands, not the proverbial 'cool guy' Doctor.Use him, don't use him, I don't give a flip. But if your surgery goes sideways because you picked a funny, jovial Doc, you'll deserve everything you get just because this awesome surgeon has the personality of a stone, and your delicate little feelings were hurt. That is all.

Dr. Viljoen perhaps is a wonderful surgeon, and is perhaps knowledgeable in his field. The challenge is that I will never know, because he lacks the ability to communicate effectively or answer questions directly. When I asked questions he would respond with a very passive 'It's possible' or something similar. When it came down to the question of surgery, he leaned back in his chair, spread his legs and basically said it was up to me. My MRI showed numerous issues, and he is the surgeon. The expert. I was counting on him to tell me if he recommended surgery or not. I am aware Drs cannot make promises. But he was unable to even tell me if he would RECOMMEND surgery, or the potential benefits. Mind you, this is after I had exhausted all conservative treatments and my back pain is continuing to worsen. Dr., you are the expert. You don't have to promise anything but at least ACT like an expert.

He was rude, didn’t answer questions, acted like I was lying, judgmental. His bedside manner is the worst. He may be a great surgeon but he acts like he hates people, or at least me. I would not recommend or ever go back. No need to be the way he acted. I did agree with his plan of treatment but what a rude nasty mean person.. no need to act that way.

He isn't the warmest provider but what he lacks in personality he makes up in skill. Dr. Viljoen has given me my life back. I will forever be grateful for his skills. Don't let his personality deter you from seeing him

Purposely miss diagnosis collusion with State Farm

The spinal fusion Dr. Viljoen performed to correct my curvatures due to scoliosis far surpassed my greatest expectations, especially being 60 years old. He very accurately assessed the pros and cons of surgery in my particular case. It was clear that he thoroughly understood the cause of my pain and breathing concerns. He prepared me well for what was to take place. From our first meeting, I as comfortable trusting Dr. Viljoen with this extensive procedure. His calm confidence and passion for his work is indicative of his skill and expertise. The entire medical team was skillful, efficient, and extremely helpful throughout the entire process. Post surgery, the severe back and leg pain from the scoliosis is gone, and the discomfort breathing due to compression on my heart and lungs is gone. The excellent care I received has allowed me to focus entirely on my recovery. I am truly grateful to Dr. Viljoen and his team!

Dr. Stephanus Viljoen has been blessed with the skills deserving the utmost respect and appreciation. His approach is compassionate, comprehensive and patient-centered. By involving his patients fully in their neurosurgical care, he provides them with the information they need to take full advantage of their treatment while being entirely engaged in the process. From the onset of my first meeting with Dr. Viljoen, it was clear he was the neurosurgeon I desired to perform my TLIF surgery. The primary reasons for selecting him were: 1) he reduced anxiety by personalizing the surgical procedure; 2) Dr. Viljoen explained the operation in understandable terms; 3) he received highest recommendations from fellow doctors and hospital administrators; and, 4) his medical team cared about their patients and ensured they received the best treatment. I will not hesitate to call upon Dr. Viljoen if future need for surgical intervention arises.

Completed a spinal fusion for my scoliosis. Very polite and explained everything clearly. Showed care and concern during the whole process and post op appointments. Happy with my care!

dr viljoen performed comprehensive emergency neck surgery on me the day following my visit. when we met he showed patience and concern for my situation. he took time to explain the situation, risks, expectations, results if not performed, and provided his opinion. he and his staff have been very responsive with our questions through the recovery. when I met dr viljoen I could barely walk and now I am!