In practice since 1999, Frank Coufal, MD, FACS, is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in complex surgeries of the brain and spinal column. He performs a wide variety of surgical procedures that range from craniotomy for the treatment of brain tumors, neurovascular disease and hydrocephalus; to operations for the treatment of traumatic injury, neoplastic disease and degenerative disease of the spine, including artificial disc replacement.
Throughout his career, Dr. Coufal has supplemented his clinical practice with research on a variety of neurological conditions including brain tumors, human prion disease, trauma brain injury, spinal cord injury and degenerative disc disease. His research and work in both degenerative disorders of the spine and acute spinal trauma has also led to his becoming a consultant and a participant in the clinical trials for the development of spinal surgical instruments and devices.
Dr. Coufal founded La Jolla Neurosurgical Associates, AMC, in 2001. This group provides neurosurgical emergency services for Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla as well as Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas.
In addition, Dr. Coufal is a qualified medical examiner and provides spinal surgical services for a workmen’s compensation referral network extending from Los Angeles to San Diego.
Dr. Coufal’s work has attracted national attention and he has been featured on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” several Discovery Health Channel dramatic recreations, “The 700 Club,” and “The Montel Williams Show.” He has also been featured in Good Housekeeping.
A native Texan, Dr. Coufal and his wife have repeatedly come to California throughout their careers and are happy to make it their home.
