Dr. Kevin Foley Ranked Among the Top Neurosurgeons in the World

We’re proud to share that Dr. Kevin Foley, Chairman of Semmes Murphey Clinic and a pioneer in spine surgery, has been recognized as a 2025 Highly Ranked Scholar by ScholarGPS. This distinction places him in the top 0.05% of all scholars worldwide, a reflection of his extraordinary contributions to neurosurgery, innovation, and academic excellence.

A Global Leader in Neurosurgery and Surgical Innovation

ScholarGPS ranks scholars based on the volume, impact, and quality of their academic work. In its most recent report, Dr. Foley was named:

• #23 in the world for Neurosurgery

• #15 in the U.S. for Neurosurgery

• #2 in the world for Computer-Assisted Surgery

These rankings highlight Dr. Foley’s lifelong dedication to advancing neurosurgical techniques, particularly in image-guided surgery, spinal robotics, and minimally invasive procedures. His inventions and innovations have helped make spine surgery safer, more effective, and significantly less invasive for patients around the world.

A Legacy That Extends Beyond the Operating Room

Dr. Foley has authored more than 255 peer-reviewed publications, contributed to over 40 book chapters, and holds more than 180 U.S. patents for medical devices and biologics. Many of his inventions have become standard tools in operating rooms across the country and the world.

Beyond clinical and research innovation, Dr. Foley’s commitment to medical education is equally remarkable. In 1994, he founded the Medical Education & Research Institute (MERI)—a nonprofit bioskills training facility dedicated to improving healthcare through hands-on learning, research, and innovation. Today, MERI serves as a world-class training hub for physicians, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare professionals from around the globe.

Through MERI’s Genesis Whole Body Donation Program, Dr. Foley has helped ensure that medical professionals receive real-world training that supports the safest, most advanced care possible, while honoring the selfless contributions of donors. His vision has created a lasting institution that continues to shape medicine for the better.

Dr. Foley also played a foundational role in establishing the Semmes Murphey Surgery Center, which was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers for Orthopedics and Spine.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved global recognition and are deeply grateful for the leadership Dr. Foley continues to bring to Semmes Murphey Clinic and the field of spine care.