Finding the right neurosurgeon feels like a high-stakes gamble. Honestly, when you’re staring at an MRI of your spine or hearing the word "aneurysm," the last thing you want is a doctor who treats you like a case number. You’ve probably seen the name Dr Boyd Richards DO pop up if you’re navigating the complex world of Michigan healthcare. He’s not just another surgeon in a white coat.
Dr. Richards is a board-certified neurosurgeon who has carved out a massive reputation at Michigan Spine and Brain Surgeons. He's been at this for over 20 years. That’s a lot of hours in the OR. But what actually sets him apart isn't just the "DO" after his name or the long list of awards. It’s how he approaches the human being on the table.
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The DO Difference in the Operating Room
Most people don't really get the difference between an MD and a DO. A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, like Dr Boyd Richards DO, undergoes the same rigorous medical training as an MD, but there's a heavy focus on the musculoskeletal system and "whole-person" health.
In neurosurgery, this matters.
Think about it. Your spine isn't just a stack of bones; it's the highway for your entire nervous system. Dr. Richards uses that osteopathic philosophy to look at how a localized issue—say, a herniated disc—impacts your overall mobility and lifestyle. He’s known for saying he wants to "become friends" with his patients. That sounds a bit "kinda" cheesy to some, but it’s actually strategic. If you trust your surgeon, you’re more likely to give honest answers about your symptoms, which leads to better outcomes.
Education and the Grind
He didn't just wake up as a top-tier surgeon. The path was long:
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- Medical School: Graduated from Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2004.
- Residency: Completed his neurosurgical residency at Michigan State University (Providence Hospital) in 2010.
- Fellowship: Took things a step further with an Endovascular Neurosurgery fellowship at the University of Alabama, Birmingham.
That fellowship is the "secret sauce." Endovascular neurosurgery is basically the "high-tech" side of the field. It involves using catheters and radiology to treat brain issues from the inside of the blood vessels. No big incisions. No opening the skull if he can help it.
Why People Search for Dr Boyd Richards DO
If you’re googling him, you’re likely dealing with something scary. His clinical interests aren't exactly light reading. He handles everything from cerebral aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) to the stuff most of us deal with as we age, like spinal stenosis and "slipped" discs.
One thing that stands out is his work with stroke patients. Since 2017, he’s served as the Medical Director of the Stroke service at Ascension Providence Hospital. When someone has an acute ischemic stroke, time is literally brain tissue. Having a guy who specializes in endovascular intervention means he can go in and mechanically remove clots. That’s the difference between permanent disability and walking out of the hospital a few days later.
Real Talk on Patient Experience
Let’s be real. No doctor is perfect. If you look at reviews on places like Healthgrades or Vitals, Dr Boyd Richards DO usually sits around a 4.5 to 5-star rating. Patients frequently mention that he "listened" and "didn't rush."
But neurosurgery is inherently risky. Some reviews mention long wait times in the office. Honestly, that’s usually a sign that the doctor is spending extra time with a patient who just got bad news. It’s a trade-off.
"I was up and walking the next day... pain-free from the time I had the surgery," says one patient testimonial regarding a cervical fusion.
That’s the goal, right? Minimal downtime.
Where He’s Working in 2026
If you're looking to book an appointment, he isn't hard to find, but his schedule stays packed. He’s primarily based out of Southfield and Novi. Specifically:
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- Michigan Spine and Brain Surgeons: 22250 Providence Dr, Ste 601, Southfield, MI.
- Affiliations: He’s a big part of the Ascension Providence system and Beaumont Hospital (Farmington Hills).
He’s also heavily involved in teaching. He’s an Associate Program Director for the Neurosurgical Residency. He's literally training the next generation of surgeons. When a guy is trusted to teach others how to cut into a human brain, that says something about his technical skill.
Common Misconceptions About His Practice
One thing people get wrong? Thinking he only wants to operate.
Modern neurosurgery, especially under the DO philosophy, often prioritizes avoiding surgery. Dr. Richards works with a team that looks at physical therapy, injections, and pain management first. Surgery is the last resort.
Another misconception is that "endovascular" means "easy." While it’s minimally invasive, it requires a level of precision that is frankly mind-boggling. We're talking about navigating tiny wires through the twists and turns of the brain's arteries.
Actionable Steps for New Patients
If you’re considering seeing Dr Boyd Richards DO, don't just show up. You need to be prepared.
- Gather your imaging: Don't just bring the report. Bring the actual CD or digital access to your MRI/CT scans. Surgeons want to see the images themselves, not just what the radiologist wrote.
- Write down your "functional" goals: Instead of just saying "my back hurts," tell him "I can't walk to my mailbox without sitting down." That helps him gauge the severity.
- Verify your insurance: His office at Michigan Spine and Brain Surgeons takes most commercial plans, but it’s always smart to call (248-569-7745) and double-check.
- Ask about the "why": If he recommends surgery, ask why that specific procedure over a less invasive one. He’s known for explaining things well, so hold him to it.
Neurosurgery is intimidating. But having a guy like Dr. Richards, who has been named a "Top Doctor" by Detroit Hour magazine for over a decade straight, definitely takes some of the edge off. He knows the science, but he also seems to remember that there's a person attached to the spine he's fixing.