My Locations
About Me
I specialize in the treatment of brain tumors and spinal disorders. I am a native of North Carolina and after spending time in military service, I have returned to provide care at Duke because I believe the people and assets here are dedicated to providing the best possible neurological care. I was drawn to the field of neurosurgery after my own family's experience with a brain tumor. I know firsthand that in the treatment of neurological disease, compassionate communication and joint decision-making with each patient is as important as the surgical procedure. I aim to bring up-to-date methods and treatments as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to help each patient deal with their illness. I also promise to help each individual understand all aspects of their care with the most honest and straightforward guidance that I can provide. In my spare time, I am very active in the outdoors of North Carolina as I enjoy spending time with my wife and four children.

- Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery 2024
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Areas of Expertise
Ratings and Reviews
The ratings and reviews are based on patient responses to the overall provider rating question from the survey. The question reads: “Using any number from 0 to 10, where 0 is the worst provider possible and 10 is the best provider possible, what number would you use to rate this provider?” Responses are converted to a 5-point rating system and applied consistently to all providers. Learn more about our survey process. Patients who see some types of providers receive a different version of the patient satisfaction survey. Those results are not available on DukeHealth.org.
Training and Education
Clinical Focus and Research
- Nayar, Gautam, Daniel J. Blizzard, Timothy Y. Wang, Steven Cook, Adam G. Back, David Vincent, and Isaac O. Karikari. “Pedicle screw placement accuracy using ultra-low radiation imaging with image enhancement versus conventional fluoroscopy in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: an internally randomized controlled trial.” J Neurosurg Spine 28, no. 2 (February 2018): 186–93. https://doi.org/10.3171/2017.5.SPINE17123.
- Krucoff, Max O., Steven Cook, Owoicho Adogwa, Jessica Moreno, Siyun Yang, Jichun Xie, Alexander O. Firempong, Nandan Lad, and Carlos A. Bagley. “Racial, Socioeconomic, and Gender Disparities in the Presentation, Treatment, and Outcomes of Adult Chiari I Malformations.” World Neurosurg 97 (January 2017): 431–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2016.10.026.
- Hargett, Charles William, Joseph P. Doty, Jennifer N. Hauck, Allison Mb Webb, Steven H. Cook, Nicholas E. Tsipis, Julie A. Neumann, Kathryn M. Andolsek, and Dean C. Taylor. “Developing a model for effective leadership in healthcare: a concept mapping approach.” J Healthc Leadersh 9 (2017): 69–78. https://doi.org/10.2147/JHL.S141664.
Insurance Accepted
Insurance coverage for Kernodle Clinics varies based on your plan. Before scheduling your appointment, we strongly recommend you contact your insurance company to verify that the Duke Health location or provider you plan to visit is included in your network. Your insurance company will also be able to inform you of any co-payments, co–insurances, or deductibles that will be your responsibility. For more information, please call the clinic.
Dr. Cook is very caring, helpful, hospitable, and concerning.
Dr. Cook, took the time to explain the test results and answer all my questions, he didn't make me feel as if I was an inconvenience, I really appreciated the care I received.
He is Avery good provider
Dr. Cook was amazing at explaining all of my options.
Dr Cook is professional, knowledgeable, straightforward and transparent.
I'm never disappointed with Dr Cook. He does an excellent job of explaining what is happening and what to expect in the future. He answers all my questions. He tells me what to do to improve my pain - practical tips for better outcomes. He's a treasure here in NC.
Dr. Cook was very transparent and educational.
Dr. Cook was very easy to talk to. Explain things in a way I could understand.