Bio
Dr. Michael Jensen is a neurosurgeon at Stanford Health Care. He also serves as a clinical assistant professor and director of endoscopic spine surgery in the Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Spine Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Dr. Jensen specializes in endoscopic and minimally invasive spine surgery for degenerative conditions, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spine-related pain, with experience in more than 2,000 procedures throughout his career. As Director of Endoscopic Spine Surgery at Stanford, he focuses on motion-preserving techniques that shorten recovery and restore function. He also employs advanced imaging and meticulous surgical planning to make spinal fusion safer and promote lasting healing. Dr. Jensen’s care philosophy emphasizes precision, collaboration, and open communication—ensuring that every patient understands their options and feels confident in their care.
As a physician-scientist, Dr. Jensen focuses his research on improving the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of spine care. He has studied how cost-sharing policies, treatment timing, and prescribing patterns affect outcomes for patients with neck and back pain. He has also explored the use of machine learning and predictive modeling to guide clinical decision-making in neurosurgery. Currently, Dr. Jensen works with the Endoscopic Spine Research Group to improve patient pain control and functional recovery after endoscopic spine surgery.
Dr. Jensen has presented his work at national meetings, including those of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the Society of Lateral Access Surgery. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in journals such as The Spine Journal, JAMA Network Open, and World Neurosurgery. His research spans clinical care, health economics, and translational science, reflecting his commitment to advancing neurosurgical practice and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Jensen is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.
