DISC’s honorees include top doctors across spine, orthopedics, pain management and vascular surgery.
At DISC Sports & Spine Center, excellence in patient care isn’t just a goal, it’s a standard. This year, 20 of DISC’s physicians are being honored with the prestigious title of Southern California Super Doctors. Recognized across a range of specialties, including spine surgery, orthopedics, pain management, and vascular surgery, our world-class physicians are acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to the field and their unwavering commitment to patient care.
The Southern California Super Doctors list identifies top doctors by following a rigorous, multi-phase selection process that combines a survey, independent evaluation and peer review, among other qualifying measures. Only physicians who have attained a high degree of peer recognition or professional achievement can be selected — in fact, only about 5% of active physicians in the region are given this esteemed honor. A special category, "Rising Stars," is reserved for those in practice for 10 years or less, highlighting their emerging impact on the medical community.
This year, DISC is proud to see 20 of its physicians across various specialties earn this recognition. These honorees have set themselves apart not only for their clinical expertise but also for their dedication to advancing patient care through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.
The Honorees in Spine, Orthopedics, Pain Management and Vascular Surgery
Neurological Spine Surgeons
Among the leading names in spine surgery at DISC, several doctors were recognized for their expertise in treating complex spine conditions.
- Joel S. Beckett, MD (Rising Stars)
- Robert S. Bray, Jr., MD FAANS (Hall of Fame)
- Amer Khalil, MD
- Mark Liker MD, FAANS, FACS (Hall of Fame)
- Bjorn Lobo, MD, FAANS
- Luke Macyszyn, MD
- Daniel T. Nagasawa, MD (Rising Stars)
Orthopedic Spine Surgeons
In the realm of orthopedic spine surgery, several physicians were highlighted for their groundbreaking work in minimally invasive spine surgery and their success in treating complex spinal disorders.
- Nick Jain, MD (Rising Stars)
- Rojeh Melikian, MD
- Edward K. Nomoto, MD
- Alen A. Nourian, MD
- Grant Shifflett, MD (Rising Stars)
Orthopedic Surgeons
Three of DISC’s orthopedic surgeons were also honored for their wide-ranging expertise in treating musculoskeletal conditions.
Pain Management Physicians
Pain management is a critical aspect of recovery for many DISC patients, and several doctors in this specialty were highlighted for their expertise in helping patients manage chronic pain and recover from surgery.
- Dickran V. Altounian, DO, MS
- Michael Port, MD (Hall of Fame)
- Leia Rispoli, MD (Rising Stars)
- Bradley Spiegel, MD
Vascular Surgeon
Last but not least, Russell Montgomery, MD was recognized for his expertise in treating vascular diseases, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and outcomes.
The recognition of 20 DISC physicians as Southern California Super Doctors is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion of the entire team at DISC Sports & Spine Center. We are proud to celebrate this honor, which reflects years of expertise, innovation, and a relentless drive to improve the lives of patients through exceptional care.
DISC offers world-renowned medical care and cutting-edge treatments across multiple specialties. With state-of-the-art surgery centers across Southern California, DISC sets the bar for high-quality, minimally invasive procedures and outpatient care. To learn more about DISC Sports & Spine Center and how its physicians can help you regain your quality of life, visit DISC Sports & Spine Center or call 949-988-7800 to schedule an appointment.

About the author
discmdgroup DISC Sports and Spine Center (DISC) is one of America’s foremost providers of minimally invasive spine procedures and advanced arthroscopic techniques. Our individually picked, highly specialized physicians apply both established and innovative solutions to diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate their patients in a one-stop, multi-disciplinary setting. With a wide range of specialists under one roof, the result is an unmatched continuity of care with more efficiency, less stress for the patient, and a zero MRSA infection rate. Read more articles by discmdgroup.