Mark D. Smith, MD
Special Interests
- Brain Tumors
- Degenerative Spinal Disorders
- Endoscopic Spine Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion
Biography
Providing care as a neurosurgeon at Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates for over 19 years, Dr. Smith’s subspecialties include brain tumor treatment, degenerative spinal disorders, and endoscopic spine surgery.
Dr. Smith’s positive reputation and demonstrated leadership has led to him to serve on the executive board within the practice for over ten years. It was during the last few years that he was asked to consider a future leadership role as President. Dr. Smith has been a long-time member and influential partner within the medical group.
With the support of senior physician leaders, coupled with a sense of duty to lead the practice forward, Dr. Smith now serves as the organization's President, a leadership role appointed to him in May 2022.
“Dr. Hunter Dyer, who precedes me as President, set an outstanding example in his leadership of the practice for the last twenty years. I hope to emulate his leadership style and do my part in promoting the future success of our practice,” said Dr. Smith.
From early on in his medical career, Dr. Smith recalls peers, previous leadership, and colleagues within the group who encouraged him along his path to becoming a neurosurgeon. Dr. Michael Cowan and Dr. Joe Bernard played key roles during medical school and residency respectively to influence his choice to pursue neurosurgery and ultimately seek a position at Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates.
In 2001, Dr. Joe Bernard, introduced him to Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates. Dr. Smith recalls,
“Upon learning more about the group, I was drawn in by the strategic recruitment and retention of physicians who had varying neurosurgical subspecialties, while still maintaining unparalleled clinical excellence and expertise. My visit in 2001 confirmed the collegial culture and true multidisciplinary approach. I learned that group success was defined by the quality of care provided to the community. Each partner physician strengthened the group as a whole to better serve the community's neurosurgical needs. I believe this is the best way to serve our patients well and resulted in me joining the practice.”
When asked what Dr. Smith likes most about being a doctor, he reflects on his experience and explains that for him, he has enjoyed the journey with its different phases. The first decade, he experienced daily opportunities to refine his skills and hone his skills, subspecialities and expertise, “becoming the surgeon I set out to be,” says Dr. Smith.
After becoming more senior in his practice, he enjoyed developing his investment in patient interactions. Whether providing a new diagnosis, sharing a second opinion or guiding them through pre and post surgery, Dr. Smith finds true fulfillment in helping his patients.
For Dr. Smith, prioritizing the patient-physician relationship is critical to the success of a patient’s outlook and outcomes. This partnership in the patient-physician journey is what drives him forward, no matter how many years spent in the field of neurosurgery.
Dr. Smith is originally from Rockmart, GA. He met his wife Anna, while they were in college and married after Dr. Smith graduated from medical school. They now have three children and couldn't be prouder as they watch them pursue talents, interests and higher education, realizing their full potential. He and his family enjoy creating memories during an annual Christmas ski trip. They also enjoy vacationing in Kiawah Island and playing tennis and golf.
Education
- Fellowship
- University of Tennessee, Enfolded Spine Fellowship
- Residency & Internship
- University of Tennessee, Memphis, Department of Neurosurgery
- Medical School
- Medical College of Georgia
Affiliations & Memberships
- President and Board Chairmen, Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates
- Member of the American Association of Neurosurgery (AANS)
- Congress of Neurological Surgeons
- Fellow American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Reviews
Media
Cutting Edge Surgery With Dr. Mark Smith
Frank was referred to Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates five years ago by his chiropractor due to recurrent lower back pain and stiffness. Seeking relief, he met with physiatrist Andrew Sumich, MD, who would ultimately play a significant role in his healthcare journey.
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In late 2021, Kate began experiencing intermittent loss of vision in her right eye. Initially, the loss of vision was only once or twice a day, but over time it escalated to over 10 times a day. Kate knew then it was time to call the doctor. After a thorough exam found nothing but healthy eyes, her ophthalmologist ordered an MRI to take a look at Kate’s brain. Kate and her family were shocked by what they found.
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(QUEEN CITY NEWS NOW) — Queen City News Now sat down with Kate Downing, a brain tumor survivor, to talk about her story and the goal of the race. Neurosurgeon Dr. Jonathon Parish also joined talking about the signs and how serious brain tumors can be.
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