Services
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Spinal Fusion
Disc Replacement
Decompression
Traumatic Brain & Spine Injuries
Second Opinions
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
The Engineer’s Approach to Surgery
As both a neurosurgeon and engineer, Dr. Kralick brings a unique precision to minimally invasive spine surgery. His engineering background — taking things apart and putting them back together — translates into surgical techniques that minimize tissue damage while maximizing outcomes.
Why it matters: Smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery. Most patients return to work and active lifestyles weeks sooner than traditional surgery.
Perfect for: Working professionals, business owners, athletes, and active individuals who need to get back to their lives quickly.
At the Shore: Advanced surgical technology typically found only in major metropolitan areas, available right here in South Jersey.
Spinal Fusion
When Stability Matters Most
Sometimes the spine needs permanent stabilization to eliminate pain and restore function. Dr. Kralick uses the latest fusion techniques and instrumentation, applying his engineering expertise to ensure optimal hardware placement and fusion success.
Honest assessment: “I’ll tell you both the good and the bad. Surgery isn’t for everyone, and I’ll never sell you an operation you don’t need.”
Ideal candidates: Patients with spinal instability, severe arthritis, or traumatic injuries where conservative treatment has failed.
Recovery focus: Getting you back to work, back to your business, back to life.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Preserving Your Natural Movement
For the right candidates, disc replacement offers the possibility of pain relief while maintaining spinal flexibility—crucial for active lifestyles.
Who benefits most: Younger, active patients who want to return to sports, physical work, or demanding careers without limitations.
Engineering advantage: Dr. Kralick’s background in biomedical engineering and medical device invention ensures optimal implant selection and placement.
Spinal Decompression
Relieving Pressure, Restoring Function
When nerves are compressed, precise decompression can provide dramatic relief. Dr. Kralick performs various decompression procedures:
- Laminectomy: Creating space for compressed nerves
- Discectomy: Removing herniated disc material
- Foraminotomy: Opening nerve pathways
Immediate results: Many patients experience significant pain relief immediately after surgery, with continued improvement over weeks.
Focus on outcomes: Every procedure is planned with your return to normal activities as the primary goal.
Trauma and Emergency Spine Injuries
24/7 Expert Care
As Director of Neuroscience, Dr. Kralick leads emergency spine trauma care for South Jersey:
- Spinal fractures from accidents, falls, sports
- Neck fractures requiring immediate stabilization
- Work-related spine injuries
- Sports and recreational injuries
Rapid response: Direct admission protocols for urgent cases—when minutes matter.
Nerve Compression Problems
Getting You Moving Again
- Pinched nerves causing arm or leg pain
- Sciatica (leg pain from compressed nerves)
- Herniated discs pressing on spinal cord
- Spinal stenosis causing walking difficulties
- Cervical radiculopathy (neck nerve compression)
Target relief: Whether it’s getting back to your job, your sport, or simply walking without pain.
Brain and Skull Conditions
Comprehensive Neurological Care
- Hydrocephalus (fluid pressure problems)
- Brain tumors requiring surgical intervention
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Complex cranial conditions
Military and combat sports experience: Extensive experience treating head injuries in athletes and service members.
Who We Serve Best
Working Professionals & Business Owners
“Getting people back to their jobs and back to business”
- Quick appointment availability (less than one week)
- Focused on functional recovery
- Understanding of work demands and deadlines
- Minimal time away from responsibilities
Active Lifestyle Enthusiasts
Riders, Athletes, and Adventurers
- Motorcycle, bicycle, and horse riders
- Rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts
- Combat sports athletes (MMA, boxing, wrestling)
- Weekend warriors returning to activities they love
Ringside physician experience treating combat sports injuries
Service Members and Veterans
Understanding Military Demands
- Air Force Reserves experience
- Knowledge of military physical requirements
- Appreciation for service-related injuries
- Commitment to getting veterans back to duty or civilian careers
Conditions We Treat at the Shore
Degenerative Spine Conditions
Age-Related Wear and Tear
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing causing leg pain)
- Herniated discs (pinched nerves)
- Arthritis of the spine
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
Our approach: Conservative treatment first, surgery only when necessary to get you back to life.
Trauma and Emergency Spine Injuries
24/7 Expert Care
As Director of Neuroscience, Dr. Kralick leads emergency spine trauma care for South Jersey:
- Spinal fractures from accidents, falls, sports
- Neck fractures requiring immediate stabilization
- Work-related spine injuries
- Sports and recreational injuries
Rapid response: Direct admission protocols for urgent cases—when minutes matter.
Nerve Compression Problems
Getting You Moving Again
- Pinched nerves causing arm or leg pain
- Sciatica (leg pain from compressed nerves)
- Herniated discs pressing on spinal cord
- Spinal stenosis causing walking difficulties
- Cervical radiculopathy (neck nerve compression)
Target relief: Whether it’s getting back to your job, your sport, or simply walking without pain.
Brain and Skull Conditions
Comprehensive Neurological Care
- Hydrocephalus (fluid pressure problems)
- Brain tumors requiring surgical intervention
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Complex cranial conditions
Military and combat sports experience: Extensive experience treating head injuries in athletes and service members.
Our Treatment Philosophy
Not Just Surgery - Better Lives
Engineering Precision Meets Human Compassion
- Outcomes-driven: Every decision based on getting you better
- Balanced approach: Honest discussion of surgical vs. non-surgical options
- No unnecessary procedures: “I’m not selling operations”
- Long-term thinking: Focus on lasting results, not quick fixes
Conservative First, Surgery When Needed
The Right Treatment at the Right Time
- Exhaust conservative options before recommending surgery
- Clear criteria for when surgery will help
- Honest prognosis about expected outcomes
- Realistic timelines for recovery
Innovation and Excellence
NIH-Funded Research and Device Innovation
- Medical device inventor bringing cutting-edge technology to patients
- Fellowship-trained in complex spinal surgery
- Continuous learning and technique refinement
- Evidence-based medicine guiding all treatment decisions
Conditions We Refer Out
Adult spinal deformity cases are referred to specialized centers with dedicated deformity teams, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate care for complex reconstructive procedures.
Quick Access to Care
“Get in in less than a week”
- Rapid appointment scheduling
- Emergency consultation availability
- Telehealth options for initial evaluations
- Direct physician communication
Contact Dr. Kralick’s office today to discuss your condition and explore your options for getting back to life.
Serving patients throughout South Jersey, from Atlantic City to Cape May, with world-class neurosurgical care close to home.
We’re Here Whenever You Need Us
Phone
(255) 352-6258
Open Hours
Mon – Wed: 10AM – 07PM
Thu – Sat: 08AM – 06PM