Reza J. Karimi
MD, FAANS, FACS

Doctor's Biography

Dr. Karimi is widely recognized as a leading expert in complex brain and spine disorders, drawing patients from across the U.S. and New Jersey seeking his specialized care. His unique expertise includes advanced fellowship training in both microvascular and endovascular neurosurgery, allowing him to perform highly intricate procedures with microscopic precision. Dr. Karimi specializes in developing and performing cutting-edge techniques for brain aneurysms, vascular malformations (AVM), cavernous malformations, vascular tumors, Chiari malformation, CSF leak, pseudotumor cerebri, hydrocephalus and neurotrauma. Dr. Karimi is regarded as a seasoned expert in the field and his patient referrals are often from other neurosurgeons.

Dr. Karimi holds several key leadership positions at Hackensack University Medical Center, including serving as the Chief of Vascular Neurosurgery, Director of Neurosurgical Trauma and Critical Care, and co-Director of Cerebrovascular Diseases. His patient-centric philosophy emphasizes non-surgical options whenever feasible, ensuring the safest and most effective treatments are always tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Dr Karimi’s commitment to innovation and patient care underscores his role as a leader in advancing the field of neurosurgery. He continues to lead clinical trials, FDA device trials and serves as an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. He is the author of numerous peer-reviewed research articles and textbook chapters. Additionally, he plays a pivotal role as an educator including mentoring the next generation of medical students, residents and fellows. Dr. Karimi presents and lectures nationally, including his role as an instructor at the American Association of Neurological Surgery (AANS) Goodman Board certification course. His research interests span cerebrovascular and endovascular neurosurgery, neurocritical care, neurosurgical anatomy and intracranial aneurysm flow dynamics. Dr. Karimi’s commitment to innovation and patient care underscores his role as a leader in advancing the field of neurosurgery.

4.9

review us on

Scott K.

3 months ago

He is the best,very helpful and highly knowledgeable.thanks dr for saving my mother in law 🙏👍

Jacqueline A.

5 months ago

Right from the start, NJBrainandSpine listened. Dr. Karimi and Dr. Frenkel understood my pain — not just physically, but how the undiagnosed pain was affecting my daily life. I couldn’t do my regular workouts or fully coach my high school varsity teams, and it was starting to take an emotional toll.

They idn’t rush to conclusions. They carefully reviewed my prior imaging and, instead of jumping on the “looks like hairline fractures” wagon, they took the time to investigate further. They ordered nuclear fusion imaging, analyzed the results, and met as a team to determine the true cause. Ultimately, they found that I needed thoratic spinal fusion — and even identified an incidental hemangioma that needed attention.

From start to finish, every person at NJ Brain & Spine made me feel like their top priority. Nurse Practitioner Yvette, Dr. Frenkel, and Dr. Karimi were incredible — compassionate, thorough, and genuinely invested in my care. The front desk staff was just as impressive, answering every question, coordinating pre-op exams, and helping calm my nerves before surgery.

On “game day,” Dr. Frenkel and Dr. Karimi were my heroes. Thanks to them, I got my life back.

Grecenia C.

1 year ago

Dr. Reza Karimi is God’s Healer, “Mr. Wonderful”. Words can’t describe my compassion and loyalty. His neuro-surgeon expertise, professionalism, and knowledge are beyond incredible. I was so scared during my stays (2 surgeries) at the Hackensack Hospital with blood clots in my brain. He is humble, easy to talk to, and took the time to answer all my questions. Dr. Karimi and staff members visited me in person all the time while I was in my hospital room.
Dr. Karimi, you are an amazing soul; so caring, I truly can’t thank you enough for saving my life. I will never forget your kindness. Brings me tears of joy! I’m deeply grateful. Your assistants Elsie and Patty are amazing. Give them a nice holiday bonus! LOL 😊

Taryn D.

6 months ago

Dr Karimi is brilliant and has the absolute best bedside manner. Truly grateful that he was on my daughter’s team of doctors to help heal her after a fatal car crash.

Nanette W.

1 year ago

He is an excellent surgeon from my experience, and he is very easy to talk to, I am very lucky to have such an knowledgeable surgeon taking care of me and makes me feel so comfortable.

Susan A.

1 year ago

Dr Karimi is everything you want in a doctor who is going to work on your brain! He is kind and patient and reassuring but most importantly he is a brilliant practitioner with years of experience and knowledge. He took care of an aneurysm I had which was an incidental finding due to tests and the minute I met him I knew I was in competent and confident hands. Working with his staff is also a comfort when you are feeling some anxiety about any procedure. Let Dr Karimi ease you through any medical decision regarding aneurysms and related issues and you will have peace of mind throughout the process. Thank you, Dr Karimi, for your expertise and kindness!

Laura O.

11 months ago

Kind and caring. Took the time to speak to me on a level I could understand. Did not feel rushed or like I was just another number.

Carleen S.

12 months ago

Dr Karimi is the best, he saved my life. The staff is amazing and the office is gorgeous!

Geraldine M.

8 months ago

What an amazing doctor. Fantastic bedside manner. You leave the office. Feeling 100% confident that all is going to be well..
Also, Ramona, who is the person that schedules for him for surgery. Is amazing !
I highly recommend his office staff

Young C.

1 year ago

He is knowledge, friendly and patient to answer my question. He's a very professional.