Dr. Ernest E. Braxton Jr. is a Board-Certified neurosurgeon specializing complex spine, minimally invasive outpatient spine surgery, artificial disc technology and sports related neurotrauma. He first fell in love with the Rocky Mountains while studying at the United States Air Force Academy, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
He completed medical school at the University of Pennsylvania and residency at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. While in Pittsburgh, he earned his MBA from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University (MBA) and rang the opening bell at the NASDAQ for his accomplishments in the field of entrepreneurship.
Before joining Vail Summit Orthopedics he was the Chief of Neurosurgery at San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC). SAMMC is the Department of Defense’s largest medical treatment facility and has the highest acuity and volume of any hospital in our military health system. During his military service he was the Theater Neurosurgeon In Charge while deployed in Afghanistan where he contributed to the 96% survivability rate for incoming wounded. While working in a combat zone he acquired extensive experience with blast and traumatic brain injuries, as well as complex spinal fractures resulting from high-energy improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Dr. Braxton is passionate about minimally invasive spine surgery because patients return to performance faster. He is Clinical Professor of Surgery at University Health Science Center in San Antonio (UHTSA) and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications. When out of the OR, he is a champion for the prevention and management of brain injury and concussion.
During his free time, Dr. Braxton enjoys spending time with friends and family, and outdoor activities, including skiing and biking.
