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Dr. Ryan Kretzer, MD

Dr. Ryan Kretzer, MD

Neurosurgery*
10+ years of experience

Dr. Ryan Kretzer, MD is a neurosurgeon in Tucson, AZ and has over 10 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 2012. He is affiliated with Saint Joseph's Hospital. He is accepting new patients.

4.4 Star Rating
Based on 46 reviews 4.4 Star Rating (46 reviews)

Western Neuro

6567 E Carondelet Dr Ste 305 Tucson, AZ 85710

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Dr. Kretzer is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

The Healthgrades Choice designation helps you understand the most important factors to consider when choosing a healthcare professional. This designation is earned based on four set standards.
Read our methodology

  • Above average experience
  • Good hospital quality
  • Good patient ratings
  • No healthcare sanctions
  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Kretzer specializes in the area of Neurosurgery. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions Well
    Patients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Trustworthy
    Patients said this doctor is trustworthy. See reviews
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Dr. Kretzer's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Kretzer

4.4
46 ratings, 35 with a written review
5 star
80%
80%
4 star
4%
4%
3 star
2%
2%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
13%
13%

Your trust is our top concern.

We strive to keep reviews honest, trustworthy, and fair.

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Any reviews that are deemed fraudulent or violate our guidelines will be removed immediately.

All reviews are confirmed and audited before publication, and community members have the ability to flag inappropriate content for further review by our team.

My husband and I both had spinal surgery by Dr Ryan Kretzer and we both were extremely please with his competence, surgical skills, bedside manner, and his office staff. He explained things very well and always asked if we had any questions for him. I was especially happy I could speak to his office staff when I called instead of an answering service. We’re so grateful he was able to schedule our surgeries so quickly. A++
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Kristy McClintick – Jan 20, 2025
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Back surgery
Dr Kretzer was wonderful from the start. Made me feel comfortable about what needed to be done. Surgery went well I’m now able to function better.His Pa Chelsea is also very helpful…Staff very friendly helpful.
What went well
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 03, 2024
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Had surgery Dec 19 through the back of my neck. 4 nights in hospital. Pain was excruciating. I begged and was never given proper meds to stop my intense suffering. Never again.
What went well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
James Riggio – Jan 12, 2024
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I've endured 3 major back surgeries in my experience he is the best. Kind & patient top notch his office staff and PA if Chelsa is still with him are so wonderful as well
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kathy Stemper – Jun 28, 2022
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Absolute staff incompetence
Waited 4 months to see Kretzer and drive 60 miles to his office. Told my appointment was cancelled and would have to wait 5 more months to see the Dr. His assistant claimed she called me about the cancellation but said my cell phone answered and immediately hung up. I asked her to call my cell at the office and the call was received with no problem. Asked why they didn’t text me and staff claimed this was a HIPPA violation yet all my other Drs text me all the time concerning appointments etc. Without a doubt, Kretzer’s staff is incompetent and uncaring.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Long wait times
7 others found this helpful
Helpful
Tom Kelly – May 20, 2022
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Just the Best!
I had severe spinal issues that included bulging disks, osteoarthritis, severe stenosis at many levels and scoliosis. There were very few neurosurgeons interested in taking my case. Dr. Kretzer was confident that he could help me and he certainly did! I had an 8 hour operation where my spine was fused from T10-Sacrum along with lamenectomy. My operation was 3 months ago and already I can walk without a walker or cane. I have had very little pain and discontinued my pain medication after one week post operation. I feel like I am a walking miracle and am very grateful to God and Dr. Kretzer for giving me my life back. Before this operation I was using a walker and was in constant pain. Today I have a new lease on life. I highly recommend Dr. Kretzer, especially if you have a difficult situation.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Long wait times
8 others found this helpful
Helpful
Cathy Tesi – Mar 24, 2022
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Punctual. Dr. Kretzer is always personable, but down to business also. He made sure that I understood everything he explained & asked questions about my current health.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mary Danielle Thu – Jan 14, 2022
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This neurosurgeon is just the best. I have a complicated spinal condition and I have trusted my life to this doctor. Plus, he’s just a nice man! Always even keeled, happy to discuss your questions and simply tells it like it is. I always feel like decisions are completely inclusive. No pressure. I feel fortunate to have this doctor here in Tucson!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Terri Francino – Nov 05, 2021
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The office processing prior to appt time was efficient. Surroundings comfortable. Appt. time met within 20 min of schedule. Dr Kretzer was personable and made me feel comfortable with my questions and concerns. I am satisfied with recommendations and advice given.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Karen Collinson – Nov 04, 2021
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Great experience. Staff and Doctor very personal and proficient.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
gabriel vovchuk – Aug 20, 2021
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Dr. Kretzer took his time to explain the results of my tests. He patiently explored the options I have. I appreciate his time, expertise and attention.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mo Pryor – Jun 03, 2021
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Listens and explains what is shown on the MRI
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
May 21, 2021
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Dr Kretzer was very caring and explained everything clearly. I appreciate the fact that he takes the conservative approach and does not want to rush into a surgery. He listens and answered all my questions. He explained my diagnosis via the MRI and then all the options The office was very friendly and efficient I highly recommend this office
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
MG – Apr 22, 2021
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Dr Kretzer was very informative and highly knowledgeable. He has a kind and patient demeanor also. The staff was helpful and efficient.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Bernie Formidoni – Mar 26, 2021
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Dr. Kretzer was FANTASTIC! He explained everything going on with my back, in terms that I understood. He also explained why he was opposed to surgery, and the alternative. I was completely okay with not having back surgery again.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
J Lightner – Feb 12, 2021
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Went well. Dr. Kretzer was very informative
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jack Herbst – Jan 22, 2021
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Initial visit for back pain. Dr. Kratzer was very informative about my condition.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Dec 03, 2020
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Dr Kretzer bd all his staff were wonderful. He was extremely knowledgeable and listened and answered all of my questions. He was not aggressive about immediately pushing surgery on you. He wanted to try alternatives first.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
KL – Nov 20, 2020
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Another informative office visit
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Nov 19, 2020
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We immediately liked Dr. Kretzer. He explained everything very well and as a result scheduled surgery. We have every confidence in his ability to improve quality of life. His staff was also very professional and friendly.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Sep 11, 2020
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Leave a review

How was your experience with Dr. Kretzer?

About Me

care philosophy

Dr Kretzer is a Neurosurgeon and Partner at Western Neuro. Dr Kretzer serves as the Director of Spine Surgery at St. Joseph's Hospital and Vice Chairman of the Department of Neurosciences at the Carondelet Neurological Institute. He is board certified...read more

biography

Dr. Kretzer is a Neurosurgeon and Partner at Western Neuro. Dr. Kretzer serves as the Director of Spine Surgery at St. Joseph's Hospital and Vice Chairman of the Department of Neurosciences at the Carondelet Neurological Institute. He is board...read more
  • Neurosurgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Johns Hopkins School Of Medicine

    Medical School, 2012
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Neurological Surgery®
Neurosurgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Dr. Kretzer is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

    Read our methodology

    Locations

    Western Neuro

    Western Neuro6567 E Carondelet Dr Ste 305 Tucson, AZ 85710
    1

    Affiliated Hospitals

    • Saint Joseph's Hospital

      350 N Wilmot Rd
      Tucson, AZ 85711
      Recipient of 1
      hospital award

      How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

      81%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

      3% lower than the national average

      70%
      Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

      6% lower than the national average

      View all patient feedback
    Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality