Spine Surgeon NJ | Back Doctors | New Jersey Spine Institute

Pairing Excellence

Dual Board-Certified Surgeons in Every Surgery

Dr. James Dwyer, Dr. Paul Vessa, and Dr. Andrew Leggett employ a unique two-surgeon approach to spine surgery. Through decades of experience and thousands of successful surgeries, they've honed this approach to deliver unmatched precision, speed, and outcomes.

Experience and collaboration yield better results—more accurate diagnoses, more conditions that can be treated, and more pain treatments that can be offered. Have back problems? Neck pain? We can help.

Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

James Dwyer, MD

Dr. Dwyer is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon credentialed by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery; he is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Through his decades of experience in orthopedic spine surgery and other back care treatments, Dr. Dwyer has had the privilege of performing many of the first specialized spine surgeries in New Jersey. He performed the first arthroscopic microdiscectomy in New Jersey, as well as the first laparoscopically assisted lumbar interbody fusion and the first L4-L5 artificial disc replacement in the state.

Learn More

Board-Certified Spine Orthopedic Surgeon

Paul Vessa, MD

Dr. Vessa is a Board-Certified Spine Orthopedic Surgeon credentialed by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery; he is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

As one of the best spine surgeons in New Jersey, Dr. Vessa has had the privilege of performing the first outpatient open laminotomy dissectomy in the State of New Jersey, a testament to his commitment to using advanced techniques to reduce the need for long hospital stays. Dr. Vessa also assisted Dr. Dwyer in the first arthroscopic microdiscectomy, laparoscopically assisted lumbar interbody fusion, and L4-L5 artificial disc replacement in New Jersey.

Learn More

Orthopaedic Surgeon — Spine Specialist

Andrew Leggett, MD

Dr. Andrew R. Leggett is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in advanced spine surgery with a focus on cervical and lumbar fusions. He is completing the Louis A. Goldstein Spine Fellowship at the University of Rochester, training under leaders in complex and minimally invasive techniques.

After his orthopaedic residency at Rutgers–New Jersey Medical School, Dr. Leggett returned home to New Jersey to provide patients with precise, evidence-based care for neck and back conditions. His philosophy emphasizes conservative treatment first whenever possible, followed by surgical intervention when necessary — using minimally invasive approaches to speed recovery and improve outcomes.

Learn More

N

Conditions We Treat

Spine surgery is not the first resort, but when needed, it can help alleviate or completely correct a number of different conditions. Some of these conditions include:

View All Conditions

J

Procedures We Perform

We offer both traditional surgery and minimally invasive techniques. Our Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine surgeons can perform:

View All Procedures

We also offer non-surgical treatment for pain management, nerve pain and back pain relief, including epidural steroid injections.

Remember

Non-surgical relief is an option for many patients.

At New Jersey Spine Institute, over 90% of patients find lasting relief without surgery. Our spine specialists focus on minimally invasive, non-surgical treatments—such as targeted epidural injections for pain management and therapeutic care—to alleviate chronic back pain. Our approach prioritizes patient comfort, faster recovery, and sustainable wellness while helping patients avoid complicated surgeries.

Precision Care

Exceptionally Thorough Spine Diagnostics

Accurate diagnosis is essential to effective spine care. At New Jersey Spine Institute, we use advanced diagnostic tools—including discography (discogram), electromyogram (EMG), and comprehensive MRI imaging reviews—to precisely identify spinal conditions. Our commitment to detailed diagnostics helps patients avoid unnecessary procedures and achieve better back pain treatment outcomes.

Peak Performance

Elite Spine Treatment for Athletes

Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Vessa have successfully treated many professional and elite-level athletes suffering from spinal injuries and chronic back pain. Their specialized approach focuses exclusively on spinal conditions, aiming to fully restore function, eliminate pain, and return athletes to peak performance quickly and safely.

Serving Patients Nationwide

Areas Served

Although our clinic is based in New Jersey, our board-certified back and spine specialists proudly serve patients from across the United States and around the world. Our advanced, minimally invasive techniques make spine surgery more accessible—delivering faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved outcomes.

No matter where you're located, if you're living with chronic back pain or spinal issues, we're here to help. Contact us to find out if minimally invasive spine surgery is right for you.

We frequently serve patients from:

Edison New Brunswick Piscataway Bridgewater Randolph Morristown New Providence Somerville Chatham Warren Township

New Jersey Spine Institute

1 Robertson Dr #11, Bedminster, NJ 07921

908-234-9200

What Our Patients Say

Patient Testimonials

Our back pain specialists help our patients find relief from neck pain, back pain, and spine issues; we eliminate pain and discomfort and help them get their lives back to normal with our individualized approach to patient care. Here are some testimonials from patients we've helped in the past:

    
 
 
         
   __MR__G__ 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Vessa is a amazing man that is a master back surgeon/professor.
Dr. Vessa saved me when I had given up on doctors concerning my severe back pain. Now he takes care of my children if a back issue pops up.
Dr. Vessa's knowledge of the spine is nothing short of amazing, and I have seen many back doctors.
Your a blessing Doc Thank You.
  
 
        
   Roxanne Levinston 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. STOP! Look no further. If you are looking for a caring TEAM, then this is where you want to be. They want what's best for you. Both Drs Dwyer and Vessa are OUTSTANDING with a fabulous bedside manner. I am grateful for the them and for the work they do.
  
 
        
   Rich Davieau 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic experience with Dr Vessa. Very caring and compassionate, needed surgery and they got me in right away because of excruciating pain I was in. I recommend NJSI to anyone looking for a great doctor and staff! Thank you Dr Vessa!
  
 
        
   Dee J 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a patient of New Jersey Spine Institute for several years and have received excellent care from Dr. Dwyer.  Dr. James Dwyer is a wonderful caring man, he not only shows great compassion, he treats you with dignity and respect.  I recently had an emergency back situation, where I was in excruciating pain.  My daughter called his office and his staff showed such care and understanding and I had an appointment immediately.  Dr. Dwyer quickly took care of my pain, and it resulted in back surgery which he performed with the utmost care and excellence.  He made himself available at all times to my daughter who was taking care of me.  I had to have physical therapy and even my therapist was impressed by how quickly he took care of me.  I also must mention that I have never dealt with a more caring or professional office staff, they took care of referrals and handling all the details of follow ups which can be quite overwhelming especially when you are in great pain.  I cannot praise Dr. Dwyer and his staff enough, they are the BEST!!!!!
  
 
        
   Ann Marie Vernese 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Pleasant office with high standard of personal care & sanitary measures practiced throughout the office environment.  The staff were engaged, friendly, accommodating & displayed excellent communication skills.  Dr Dwyer patiently explained my X-ray results & his recommendations for further treatment. Extremely happy with services provided.
  
 
        
   Greg Barrett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Vessa and the whole team, from the office staff to the team at the surgical center, were extremely professional, empathetic and outstanding in their roles.  My surgery went very well and it was certainly due to this team.  I consider myself very fortunate to have found Dr. Vessa and team.
  
 
        
   Oneil Hart 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a good experience with you guys I really appreciate what you guys have done for me thank you all
  
 
        
   Nelson Albert 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From the initial visit dr..Dwyer and his staff were outstanding.i don't comment often  but this time I have to... i was told the shot was unbearable... well I felt nothing from the iv to the actual shot in my back... Thank you ,, New Jersey spine institute... thanks a million 😊 ✌️

Schedule Your Visit

Online Appointment Request

Fast & Easy

Insurance Checks

Not sure if your insurance covers surgery at our clinic? Don't worry—we'll perform an insurance check to ensure that you're covered.

Click to Call

Excellence Recognized

Continuously Ranked.

Our team is among the Top Spine Doctors in New Jersey. Dr. Dwyer & Dr. Vessa have been awarded a multitude of Best Spine Surgeon Awards including Most Compassionate Doctor and Top Spine Surgeons NJ by Castle Connolly.