Working with Dr. Cobbs during a really scary medical event made the process so much more bearable! He is kind, listens well, explains things simply, and made time to answer myself and my family's questions. Not only did he do a great job on my craniotomy (no small feat!), he made me feel human and was so compassionate. I cannot recommend him and his team enough! After surgery he explained well what happened and his office answered my questions quickly via MyChart. No one else I'd trust with my actual brain! And the research work he does is incredibly inspiring, going above simply working with patients to advance care for others. Thank you Dr. Cobbs and team! read more

Dr Cobbs is supposed to be a brain tumor expert. His first question was "So why are you here to see me today?" He didn't pick up on my sarcasm, when I chuckled, told him it was a worry when a specialist doesn't know why a patient is there to see them, then I said, "Well, we could start with the brain tumor." He told me that my chronic headaches, which sometimes feel like my eye is being pushed out, was unrelated to my tumor, that my vision changes were unrelated to my tumor, the frontal lobe where my brain tumor is has nothing to do with higher level math or communication. He told me that he could be 100% certain it was a benign meningioma from imaging. He said he could be certain the other tumors were unrelated: three breast tumors with discordant pathology/radiology, a contrast enhanced extradural spinal mass, and Drs trying to determine if I have a single adrenal tumor or bilateral, and others. He didn't ask me about any other symptoms - such as the toe twitching that recently started. My husband started worrying when he started to repeatedly beat me at Carcassonne, which used to be 1/6 games. My son thought the tumor explained some of my personality changes. The worst, Dr Cobbs claimed that 10% of all women have this type of brain tumor! My husband joined us (via FB messenger). Afterwards, he said, "Did he just say that 10% of all women have meningioma brain tumors? I'll have to look that up." Both my husband and I have done scientific research. I even wrote to Dr Cobbs to make sure we got his message right (attached). In the communication, he then said that higher level math was in the area of concern. I'm an applied mathematician. Women beware!!!! read more

Charles S Cobbs, MD - Picture of Brain Tumor and correspondence through patient portal - Neurologist Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Have all the symptoms of aggravation with problematic nerve, called to schedule an app-t and left messages to Sarah every other day, to schedule for Dr. Cobbs. As a result - complete unwillingness to help and negligence toward clients. Sarah didn't returned my calls for almost 4 weeks (I've called every other day). Finally, she picked up the phone. But didn't schedule me, some pretended excuses were made. After 5 weeks of constant bowing to Sarah I've decided to move with another doctor. Conclusion: Looks like this doctor didn't need money from patients or Sarah is deliberately depriving this doctor of wages. No other explanation for such unwillingness to help and negligence toward clients. read more

Ever since September 21st, I've been looking forward to writing this review -- but I wanted to wait until I've had the full experience with him as my lead doctor / neurosurgeon. The experience kicked off in incredible fashion with him being called at 11pm at night from the ER doc to fit me in the very next morning -- he answered and I was at his office by 11am. Background: I woke up with the loss of using my left arm & hand. Couldn't grip. Couldn't lift. Infinite pain. Endless tingling in my hand & fingers. Dr. Cobbs captained the ship to chart a course through all the different doctors I had to see and tests to conduct (spine mri, brain mri, structural doctor, and neurologist with an EMG). He was the one doctor I saw through it all that was really hands on in testing, and a thorough explanation of the situation -- including going over each mri result with in laymen language. He fielded all my *neuro*tic questions: "Is it MS, is it MS?" "What about ALS?" "I can't feel my face, what's going on?" Oh, and his staff -- bless his staff! -- would take my calls in between meetings: "Hey, I can't feel either of my feet or hands now, and the pain is throughout my neck." They took all the notes & it was proven when I got a call from the MRI department to schedule a brain MRI, which today we went over and proved to be negative on all brain possibilities. And, he dictates his notes of each meeting in front of you, then prints you out a personal copy. Final diagnosis: "Transient Neuropathy." What causes it? Well, if you ever show all these symptoms, you should see Dr. Cobbs and if it's determined "transient" read: who knows then you should ask him what his mnemonic device is to remember all the possible causes of TN. I didn't have any surgery done by him, and that's the plan going forward. Straight forward, persistent, clear answers, conversational, and goes through all possible scenarios & takes those extra measures to make you feel complete (e.g. he took the initiative to have a final meeting today to go over everything & close the book on this!). read more

Dr. Cobbs has performed three spinal surgeries on me in the last few years. Two of the three went beautifully.The last though has been problematic. Although I feel that Dr. Cobbs is a superior surgeon, he nicked something while working on my lumbar spine that was no big deal and completely understandable considering the chaotic mess that is my spine. For whatever reason, Dr. Cobbs stated on the surgical report that there were no complications, nor observable spinal fluid leakage. And yet the following morning while doing rounds, he was confronted with me exercising at his physical therapist's behest, by walking up and down the stairwell. Rather flustered, Dr. Cobbs explained to me that because of the spinal fluid leakage, I should be on my back for at least 48 hours, and would tell all staff members of this situation. While in the stairwell, I took, what was to be the first, of numerous falls due to my right leg giving out without warning. A month later, with the falling a significant issue still, and ER Doc, Alex Lam, ordered a post-operative MRI in order to determine what was going on with my spine. This STAT MRI showed that my disc at the L3/L4 level had re-herniated and was extruding. Making matters worse, there was a pool of spinal fluid that directionally was putting extra pressure the already extruding disc. For whatever reason, no action was taken (which was questioned as to why by an orthopedic surgeon that I have seen) and I have been left in limbo, with two probable spinal surgeries still to undertake. Dr. Cobbs is a nice enoogh fellow, but I often got the feeling that when he was talking to me that he was actually looking past me, mentally picturing his next surgical procedure. Because of this awkard situation, I don't feel comfortable returning to Dr. Cobbs.I do want to reiterate though, that I feel Dr. Cobbs is a superior surgeon, and that when I was at my lowest, he showed me several kindnesses that showed true caring and kindness on his part, and I am eternally gratreful for those actions. read more

After being told by one surgeon that I needed an ACDF with a hemi-corpectomy (removal of half my vertebrae at C6), I went to see Dr. Cobbs for a second opinion. After he examined me I told Dr. Cobbs what the other surgeon had said. Dr. Cobbs told me that the hemi-corpectomy was an aggressive procedure and did not recommend it. He showed me in a diagram how he would perform the procedure. I felt much more comfortable with his recommendation. Dr. Cobbs performed the procedure (ACDF C5-C7 and cleaned up other stuff); everything turned out great! His bedside manner is wonderful. You never feel hurried even though Dr. Cobbs is extremely busy. I am 8+ weeks out now. I'm working out and just started jogging lightly. Dr. Cobbs has given me my life back! I highly recommend Dr. Charles Cobbs! read more

Dr. Cobbs is an EXTRAORDINARILY gifted neurosurgeon, and has always treated me with concern, consideration, and respect. He brilliantly executed a surgery that other surgeons described as "formidable," which has almost totally relieved the horrible pain I was in and restored most of the neurological deficits I was experiencing. This surgery was a followon to a surgery performed by another neurosurgeon 20+ years ago. The MRI showed a lot of damage in my neck above the 20 year old fusion. Dr. Cobbs was clear from the first that surgery was warranted, clearly explained why, what the choices were, and why he selected the one he recommended (it was the most technically challenging and had the highest probability of a good outcome). He fully supported me in my need to become fully informed by seeking multiple other opinions and trying alternative therapies, and he explained - without being an alarmist - the possible risks of waiting. In August, he performed a very technically challenging surgery, and I could tell from early in my recovery that it had taken away the pain almost completely. Unfortunately, the incision became infected while I was in the hospital. Dr. Cobbs moved quickly to definitively identify and remedy the problem, which involved a second challenging surgery, again brilliantly performed. I continue to have about 98% pain relief, and the preexisting deficits with my balance and fine dexterity are slowly but surely improving. Dr. Cobbs is a partner in a very busy practice, one that routinely handles very challenging cases. The pace in the front office can be very brisk, and even so, they've ALWAYS handled my every request or question promptly, competently, and completely. And, that brisk pace stops once Dr. Cobbs ushers you into the exam room (yes, he comes out to take you back), and I never felt rushed or unheard during any of my numerous consultations with him. Not only would I recommend Dr. Cobbs, I have recently done so to a good friend who is strugging with his own terrible neck pain. read more

After a horrendous experience at St. Mary's Spine Center, my doctor suggested I get a second opinion from a neurosurgeon. I had a spinal fusion in 1984 for a ruptured L4-5 disc, was fine for about 24 years but for the past few years I've been having increasing back pain, stiffness, and sciatica. I saw Dr. Cobbs and found him very easy to communicate with. He has an expansive personality and he quickly put me at ease. He did a very thorough history and neuro exam and I did not feel rushed at all. He answered all my questions and did not talk down to me. He explained my MRI to me and showed me what is causing my symptoms. Dr Cobbs gave me a referral for a facet joint injection in the interim. He told me to see him again 2 weeks after the injection so he can see how I'm doing. I was pleasantly surprised at this, in stark contrast to St. Mary's where no one seems to care about follow-up. His office staff is top notch too. Very pleasant and extremely efficient. They scheduled my MRI for me and got the authorization in under 5 minutes. read more

Dr. Cobbs did WONDERS for my moms back- she had lower back pain for years. We came in the office and I have to say that I LUV Keely the receptionist, she is a sweetheart and truly cares about the patients. So we got in to see Dr. Cobbs right away and he saw what was going when he read my moms MRI- and he got her in to surgery the following week. Thank god for that- she was in so much pain. Right after the surgery my mom didn't even need any pain meds. I couldn't believe how fast she has recovered and its only been a little over a week. Thanks Dr. Cobbs I have my mom back :) read more

I was referred to Dr Cobbs by my chiropractor, orthopedic surgeon, and epidural anesthesiologist - highly recommended!! As he should be. I saw Dr. Cobbs for my second L4-5/S1 microdiscectomy. I didn't want to have surgery - I wanted to 'fix' the problem without another one! However, Dr. Cobbs walked me through his reasoning and got me to understand why he recommended another surgery and after consulting my other physicians. He was thorough, professional, kind, compassionate, and realistic. I appreciated his direct approach yet I never felt pressured. I am now pain free and recovering like a champ. Thanks to him, I have my life back. I was immobile before this procedure. I have been to a lot of doctor's in my life and was raised by a physician and I consider Dr. Cobbs one of the best. So many thanks! Go see him! read more

Dr. Cobbs is exceptional and is assisted by a very strong team. For my spondylolisthesis and disc herniation, he and Michelle did a PLIF and microdiscectomy. These procedures were executed so skillfully that I did not need any pain medication other than a little Tylenol after the surgery. My mobility has been restored and I can again do simple things, like stand up and remain on my feet until the late afternoon without pain. Their nurse, Kristina N., addressed many pre-surgery questions in a timely manner. Thanks, Dr. Cobbs, Michelle, Sara and Kristina :-). read more

I broke a disk in my back in 2006 and went to Davies Emergency where they sent in Drl Cobbs after doing an MRI of my spine. He said I broke a disk in the L3/4 area and highly recomended a mcrodiskectomy immediately. I asked for a second opinion and he sent down Dr. Brian Andrews who was the head of that practice and all CPMC neurosurgery. He agreed with Chuck as he called him and I then asked Dr. Andrews to do the surgery. He declined stating his specialty was brain surgery where Dr. Cobbs was spine. I didn't have a computer there so I had no idea he was famous for spine surgery and lied so his younger associate could peform the surgery. I agreed to go thru with it and had the surgery the next morning. It has been all down hill ever since and now I can barely walk. I just saw Dr. Bobby Tay at UCSF who stated in the following MRI's after my surgery showed a bone spur left in mys spinal cord which could have been the cause what has happened to me post-op.His expertise and bed side manner are excellent and he recommends surgery as a last resort. I will most likely have another minor disk surgery by Dr. Tay but I highly warm anyone reading this that Dr. Cobbs just doesn't have the skills it takes to do spine surgery. He also never visitied me one day in the hopsital which is where his practice and any physician who has such little concern for his patient shoud stay as far away from him as possible. read more

Dr. Cobbs a Superior NueroSurgeon. I have had two surgeries on my spine as a result of an infection. He considered the pain I was in both times, and why. Quickly and efficiently reviewed, and assessed my condition. Dr. Cobbs fixed my condition, as my surgeon. As my Doctor, he has continued to follow my condition. Making sure that indeed my condition has been remedied, and that I have phyical therapy to get me back to my old self (Smiling). Which, is saying a lot when Dr. Cobbs, had a multitude of things to consider even before taking my case. He has fixed what he said he could, and has done so with a speed and consideration I've rarely seen in a Doctor or Surgeon. Dr. Charles Cobbs, Damn Fine Surgeon and Doctor. read more

This man is my hero. Amazing surgeon, researcher, communicator, and person. If you ever have a reason to see him, DO! His research into the causes of brain tumors has led to treatments that are lengthening the lives of patients with aggressive glioblastomas, and may lead to treatments to prevent even low grade tumors like mine. Oh yeah... and he saved my life. read more

Before seeing Dr. Cobb, I had been suffering severe leg pain and difficulty walking for more than 15 years, and had seen numerous doctors without getting any answers about my condition. Dr. Cobb quickly diagnosed my problem, and surgery dramatically improved my situation. I highly recommend him. read more

I just underwent a 3-level cervical discectomy and T-plate fusion by Dr. Cobbs and I just simply cannot write a glowing enough description of how great he is. His credentials are outstanding (I have worked in medicine most of my life and researched him thoroughly); he's top of his field from everything I read, hear, and certainly, experienced. He's very clear, to the point, and extremely kind. His office staff is tremendous and very responsive to my needs. He reviews x-rays, MRI's, etc. with you at his desk and explains your medical situation and suggested treatment in a very straight forward manner. He dictates your office visit report with you at his desk and gives you a copy immediately. I would not hesitate to refer him to ANYONE seeking top notch orthopedic surgery care. read more

As a healthcare worker treating post operative spine patients, I never thought I would become one. The constant intractable nerve pain, the arm weakness and feelings of despair turned my life upside down. My husband, a physical therapist, recommended Dr. Cobbs because of his outstanding reputation and successful outcomes. I recommend him and his staff for the following reasons: 1. Excellent communication skills 2. Responsive to questions/requests 3. Patient. You do not feeel rushed 4. Personal outcome following two-level cervical fusion. Like any medical practice, optimal patient satisfaction depends on the skill of the support staff. His is second to none. read more

I want to share my views of Dr. Charles Cobbs with the world. The man is a true miracle worker. I was in San Francisco for a conference and was in a desperate way because of the pain I was experiencing. After arriving in San Francisco and during a visit with a cousin, he suggested that I go for "one more" consultation with a surgeon. Fortunately, Dr. Cobbs had time to see me on April 30, 2013. In short, he took the most amazing care of me. For months and months I had suffered with unrelenting back and leg pain. I had seen many doctors, all of them quite able, but had received so many mixed and conflicting diagnoses and treatment plans that I was truly confused. In some ways, I do not think that the doctors themselves knew how to proceed with my tricky and complicated problem. Well, when I saw Dr. Cobbs he immediately diagnosed my problem (synovial cyst on the spine which was pressing on the nerve root) which was followed by surgery to remove the cyst that day. When I woke up from the surgery the pain was gone. I could have just cartwheeled down the hall of the hospital. Yes, the surgery was successful but that only tells part of the story. Dr. Cobbs' diagnostic skills were superb, his interpersonal skills were outstanding, and his post-operative care was second to none. He recognized that I was a bit nervous to have surgery by someone I had just met but he inspired confidence and explained the problem and surgical procedure in the most gentle and accessible terms. I am now back in Toronto (my home) and cannot fully express my gratitude to Dr. Cobbs and his team. His admin staff were gentle, informative, and helpful. Thank you to the entire team for giving me back my life. If you are looking for an outstanding neurosurgeon with great interpersonal skills then book an appointment with him. You will find a surgeon who truly takes an interest in the personal well-being of his patients. When you look in Wikipedia for a description of the perfect doctor, there should be a picture of Dr. Cobbs. Clare from Toronto read more

I was dealing with pretty bad back pain that started with a hike and got aggravated by playing cricket. I visited Dr. Cobbs who did MRI and all kinds of tests (which were super expensive btw). Looking at the reports he said nothing was wrong with me structurally and asked me to go home. I asked him what should I do about the pain and I don't remember what he exactly said but the answer was not very helpful. I wish he looked into my vitamin D level which I later realized was very low (no surprise living in Seattle). I wish he gave a more directive answer. He might be a good surgeon for someone who has structural issues but not for someone like me. Later, I visited a Sports Orthopedic doctor who was first to notice my low vitamin D. I would highly recommend Dr. Maxine Weyant instead. read more

Dr. Charles Cobbs must be God's second son, (Jesus always first of course). I had spinal cord surgery from Dr. Charles Cobbs after suffering with severe lumbar pain having fallen on a concrete floor. The pain was from my hips down my buttocks, sciatica, thighs, legs and numbness, nerve damage and pin sticking sensations 24/7 for four years.. One of my back vertebrae from my spine was sliding out and could have caused permanent paralysis or possibly death. I was on opiate medications from other doctors who said I did not need surgery and just kept feeding me pills. For four years I was taking up to 12 pills a day for my pain prior to the surgery. Three weeks after my surgery i have not taken any pain medications / opiates AT ALL. And I HAVE NO BACK PAIN OR ANY OTHER PAIN. DR. Charles Cobbs PERFORMED A MIRACLE! After two months I no longer needed my walker nor do I need a walking cane. It has been three months now since the surgery and I am working out in the gym and on with my regular activities in my life with no problems at all. THANK YOU DR. COBBS FOR GIVING ME MY LIFE BACK!!!! Grace P. read more

Over the period of 15+ years I saw numerous physicians trying to get a diagnosis for the excruciating pain I experienced while walking, all to no avail. In mid 2012, Dr. Robert Savala referred me to Dr. Cobbs, who quickly identified a somewhat rare condition, spinal lipomatosis, which was causing severe spinal stenosis. I had back surgery in mid-October, and following a week or so of pain, went from being able to walk only a couple of blocks to being able to walk over a mile without pain. The attention and treatment I received from Dr. Cobbs has resulted in a dramatic change in my life, and I am incredibly grateful. I would recommend him to anyone. He has great bedside manner, and really knows his stuff. read more

I don't know if he is good or not as I have had problems ever since the surgery which may or may not have been his fault. What I can say is that he has no interest in follow through after the surgery is completed, does not return calls and seems mildly annoyed by patients. I don't expect bedside manner from a surgeon I do expect concern read more

Dr. Cobbs attempted to fenestrate an arachnoid cyst of mine in February 2018. He did way more than was discussed, didn't clearly explain the risks (more on that in a moment), and left me basically disabled when it was all said and done (three additional surgeries later). The service I received was atrocious, across the board. From it taking several days of me leaking CSF out of the back of my skull before his office figured it out, to lack of response/callback on several issues when I'd contact the office, to me now being half-deaf in my left ear (which he said he has no idea how that happened, but an ENT Dr. with Swedish said it was due to brain damage, and he's the only Dr. that was in my brain in that area, the math is pretty easy to do), I'd say stay the f**k away from this doctor. Also, when I went back the last time, to discuss removing the shunt they ended up having to install, instead of just testing to see if the shunt could be removed by turning up the pressure needed to activate it, he wanted to open me right up again. I think if you have decent insurance the guy will try to open you up as much as possible. I had to suggest that instead we simply increase the pressure the valve needed to work, and saved myself a 5th surgery from this idiot. I was in severe pain after the last surgery, both in my skull and abdomen. That office did not care at all. That Dr. did not care at all. I ended up having to seek out another provider (my regular PCP, with a different organization) to help me get to a point where I could function enough to keep my job and do basic things like clean my apartment. Let me be clear, I'm not on narcotics, this isn't a "whaaa no one gave me drugs" review. 1800mg of Gabapentin a day helps with the extreme nerve pain I feel in my skull, and the crippling pain I have in my abdomen from the shunt tubing. But that's all I take. The last time I attempted to seek help from Dr. Cobbs' office, they prescribed me a drug that I expressly said was not good for me due to possibly having an adverse reaction. And I sure did have the reaction I told them I'd have after taking just one dose. They don't care about their patients, and that can be said of the nurses and Dr. in that office both. I'm lucky to be alive, no thanks to this Dr. or his practice. That's kinda the way I feel about the entire process. Lucky to be alive, and I warn anyone thinking of seeing this Dr. to try someone else. Regarding being half-deaf now, again, he has no idea how that happened, despite being a neurosurgeon who operated on that area of my skull. Funnily enough, the area where auditory sensory information is processed on that side of my skull is still numb and painful. It's quite a ways away from where the cyst was, though on the same side. He messed up, did something to damage that part of my brain, accidentally I am sure, and played dumb about it. Stay away from this Dr. read more

I have a history of back problems and have had two back surgeries dating back to 1992 and 1999 in order to repair ruptured discs which were causing irreparable nerve damage. They were both successful and in no small part because I went to the surgeon most highly recommended by the great, world renowned UCSF neurosurgeon Dr. Charlie Wilson. At the time, Charlie was only performing brain surgeries. However, he did not hesitate to recommend his protégé, Dr. Russ Nockels, to perform the surgery. Dr. Wilson, in no uncertain terms, said that if he were to have a back surgery himself, Dr. Nockels would be his first choice for surgeon. After a complete success with my first surgery at Mount Zion in '92 on my L3-L4 rupture, when it came time to deal with my ruptured disc at T11, I opted to travel all the way back to Detroit in the dead winter to have Dr. Nockels perform my next surgery. This time it was at Detroit's Henry Ford Medical Center where Dr. Nockels had subsequently relocated. I never had any regrets as this surgery too was a complete success. It was totally worth the inconvenience of having to travel and spend several days in Detroit. Back surgeries are complicated and extremely serious business. When it comes to the spine, you always want the very best in your corner. Fast forward to summer 2011 where I am now experiencing knife stabbing pain in my lower back extending into my buttocks and down the back of my legs. My previous two surgeries were not elective since the nerve damage was causing atrophy to the affected muscles. This time, the issue was purely pain (which is elective) - pain that was precluding me from enjoying the very recreational activities which define me, e.g., running, weight training, golf, playing with my dog. If the pain didn't chronically reach level 10 out of 10, I would have worked my way through it with rest and pain meds and avoided the surgery entirely. With two back surgeries already under my belt, I had become very knowledgeable on the subject of back problems. Back surgery is always a risky proposition. In many cases, the patient actually comes out of the surgery worse than when they went in. Surgery is something that should only be considered after weighing all of your options, including extended rest. So there I was, mentally preparing myself for another long and difficult journey back east to visit my friend Dr. Nockels in order to fix my mess of a back. Upon a suggestion by a friend I decided to check out Yelp just to see if anyone new was on the scene that seemed to fit the bill of standout neurosurgeon. It was at that time that I ran across the Yelp review by Nancy R of Mill Valley dated 12/31/2010. In her 5 star review of Dr. Cobbs, Nancy R. underscored the fact that Dr. Cobbs came to her via the highest recommendation possible by the great Dr. Charlie Wilson. At that time, there were nine other Yelp reviews of Dr. Cobbs besides Nancy's. All of the reviews were five stars. All of them gave glowing accounts of Dr. Cobb's professionalism and skill. I took this as a sign. I decided to give Dr. Cobbs a try for a minimum of an opinion. The rest is history. Here I am, five months later, the beneficiary of an incredible surgical accomplishment at the hands of Dr. Cobbs. The surgery itself was extremely complex (i.e., at least compared to my first two) - which I suspected based upon the locations and degree of the pain. The MRI itself read like a tale of epic proportions. The surgery was a combination of fusions, grafts, disc decompression, and hardware implantations on discs L1-L5. The result was a complete, unequivocal success. And, of note, Dr. Cobbs was always there for me during a very difficult post-op period - which Dr. Cobbs had warned me in advance would be the case. So there you have it. You no longer have to travel back East to the godforsaken town of Detroit in order to get the very best in spinal neurosurgery. The best is right here, in good ole S.F., in our very own backyard. Thank you again, Dr. Cobbs. I'll be thinking of you every time I run my daily 10k out at Ocean Beach, when I tee it up out at the muni and when I roughhouse it with my furry little best friend. Dr. Cobbs, you are truly, "The Man"! And thank you to Yelp and Nancy R for showing me the way. read more

I wish I had the neck surgery by Dr. Cobbs. I waited too long and he relocated to Seattle. I trusted him to do two surgeries to my lumbar spinal column and each surgery turned out exactly like he told me beforehand. I am now facing the surgery he indicated for my neck. Insertion of a metal plate and a fusion. I waited too long as I just had numbness. Now it feels like I inserted both hands into an electrical socket. Dr. Cobbs is an exceptional individual. If we had more like him in our world it would be such a better place. You can trust him, Dr. Cobbs. read more

I cannot say enough about my experience with Dr. Cobbs and his office staff. They treated me like a human being in pain, not a person looking for a quick fix of some oxy. I respect him and his work. I never felt forced into anything I didn't feel comfortable with (surgery, Yikes!). I did eventually have the surgery and it went without a hitch. I am very grateful to have the pain and the numbness gone. read more

I am a sixty-five year old male enjoying great health. But, over a three year period i began to notice decreasing function in my right leg. While snorkeling (extensive leg workout) there was a short period when I lost control of my right leg. More than frightening, to say the least. I came to realize at that point that the stride in walking wasn't there and what remained was no longer fluid. I even began to stumble now and again trying to get my leg to function. Within weeks of the episode, visits with specialists and in consultation with my GP -Dr. McLeod in Santa Rosa, Dr Cobbs performed surgery on the lower lumbar area of my back. Within 48 hours and while still minimally sensitive as a result of the surgery itself, I could recognize increasing control of my leg again. It has now been just over one week since surgery and things couldn't be better. Yes, I've still got a few weeks to take it easy allowing for complete recuperation. Small price to pay for the 95%^ increase in mobility and overall endurance during longer walks. Don't put it off if a professional like Dr Cobbs says you may benefit from a recommended procedure. The fine work of Dr Cobbs and his staff has literally changed my life. read more

I was in terrible pain and called Dr. Cobbs office and got their greeting which included Dr. Cobbs cell phone # in the case of an emergency. How many times have your tried to hunt down a doctor and end up with nothing but an answering service!! Lucky timing or what but Dr. Cobbs answered my call and this was before 8:00am and had me come down to his office. THE SAME DAY BEFORE NOON - again how many doctors can you see the same day or even within a week?? He prescribed pain killers and set me up with a cervical injection. And the thought of surgery, he was really clear, only as the last resort. read more

Do not put off surgery any longer. Dr. Cobbs has been my neurosurgeon since 07'. GREAT doctor, great advice and very good sense of humor. Glad to have him on my side. I have had L5-S1 fusion on Sept 2011 and feel great. Hope this helps. read more

Dr. Cobbs operated on my husband's meningioma (benign brain tumor) on April 24th 2013. He has done an excellent job by supporting us in the stressful process of diagnoses, treatment, and recovery. He is highly specialized and very friendly. I guess it's also worth while to mention that he is one of the best in the field of neurosurgery. My family and I give the wonderful Dr. Cobbs the highest grade available. read more

Dr. Cobbs is the ninth Neurosurgeon that my wife has seen in the last five years for her meningioma brain tumor. He is the only one that knew that it needed to be debulked. He performed the surgery and was able to remove more of it than he originally thought. He is the only doctor we felt comfortable to perform her surgery and we are extremely pleased! The care she has received from him, his staff, Swedish Hospital, and everyone there has been world class. Thank you sir! read more

I had been suffering from numbness in both hands for almost two years, and tried every non-surgical option imaginable. If only I had met Dr. Cobbs two years ago to avoid all that wasted time, energy and discomfort. Dr. Cobbs has an incredible bedside manner, incredibly patient, and so thorough in making sure that I understood everything wrong with me and what it would take to fix it. Dr Cobbs removed two discs in my neck three weeks ago today, and other than a little time to be 100%, I am already 95% improved than prior to surgery. It's the first time in 2 years that I have been able to sleep through the night. I am so happy that I traveled from southern California to the bay area to have him perform my procedure. I wish he operated on ALL parts of the body, so that he could be my general practitioner! An incredible experience and I am truly indebted. Thanks again Dr. Cobbs. read more

I came all the way to Dr. Cobbs from Wenatchee, Wa. The NeuroSurgeon that I was seeing in Wenatchee, was telling me that the collapsed ventricles in my brain from the over draining shunt was normal. I was in extreme pain, had severe eye sight issues, memory issues, balance issues, and extreme breathing issues through my nose. The collapsed ventricles on the right side were causing severe sinus issues. Basically my brain was being sucked inward from the shunt being allowed to over drain for so long. He promptly did a shunt imaging test, which proved that the shaft from the brain to the shunt was no longer functioning. I was scheduled for surgery asap. The surgery went amazingly well, no issues at all. He removed the clogged tube and threaded a new one to the left side of my brain to the ventricles there. This relieves the pressure from the right side of my brain and I hope that my ventricles will come back. This is the follow up from my surgery day that I am typing this. My surgery was on the 25th of May. The burning issue from my right sinus is gone, the extreme eye sight changes have settled down, the massive pain both sharp, stabbing and constant are gone. My balance has improved and memory is getting sharper. I dont see how Dr. Ward from Wenatchee, wa should be allowed to tell someone that something as debilitating as collapsed ventricles is normal. That is a serious issue that can cause a stroke, a subdural hematoma, amongst other things, that is NOT normal. The Neuro Surgeon in Wenatchee would not listen to me that there was something wrong, He told me well since I didnt place the shunt I wont work on it. My shunt was placed in Shreveport, Louisiana. So I guess I was expected to travel 2,281 miles back to Louisiana to have my shunt fixed. I looked up Dr..Cobbs and made an appt with him. Never have I had a more friendly staff and hospital and of course Dr, than Dr. Cobbs and his staff and hospital!!! If there is anyone else that has Neurological issues or Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) or Chiari Malformation please give Dr. Cobbs a try he is amazing. Extremely thorough and actually listens when you are telling him things, he asks questions and actually waits patiently till you finish answering them. He listened and did the appropriate tests and actually looked at the MRI's and CT scans. All I can say is WOW. Ty Dr. Cobbs you have changed my life, you have made it more tolerable again. read more

Love Dr. Cobbs. He won't operate unless theres no other option, he is always there when you need him, ( with personal phone number) is friendly, funny and will work with you and never make you feel like some doctors do, unimportant. read more

Dr. Cobbs seems to run a surgery factory and this is the main reason I opted not to continue treatment plus his office staff seems coked out, drinks too many Starbucks (extra caffeine please) during the day, racing through every patient like we are on "Amazing Race - It's Just My Spine!" They probably just do so many surgeries that it is like taking a Value Meal order at a drive-thru window. read more

It seems a bit common to be recommending an internationally known, highly skilled neurosurgeon on Yelp. But if it helps one person make a decision about seeing Dr. Cobbs for surgery, it is a good use of this social media. Dr. Charles Cobbs and his physician's assistant Michelle Smith made my husband's brain surgery way less scary than it could have been. Dr. Cobbs explained exactly what he would be doing and why. He answered all our questions in clear, easy to understand, yet precise language. On the day of surgery, Michelle Smith was with my husband as he went into anesthesia and Dr. Cobbs had nurses make two calls up to the waiting room to let us know how things were progressing. After the operation, Dr. Cobbs came out to the waiting room to tell us how the operation went, answered our questions and let us know a time frame for when we would be able to see him. Dr. Cobbs did an amazing surgical procedure on my husband. He went into the center of his head and removed a benign tumor which was beginning to press on his brain stem. He did this with such precision, that after only three weeks, my husband's physical and mental capacities are almost totally normal. There remains only a slight bit of double vision and the inability to wiggle his left toes, both of which Dr. Cobbs maintains will return to normal with time. My husband and I recommend Dr. Cobbs to anyone considering neurosurgery. His expertise is the off the charts and his easy-going manner is a calming reassurance for the family. Between Dr. Cobbs, Michelle Smith, and the nurses at Swedish, you will be in very special, caring and expert hands. read more

I just had a lemon sized tumor removed from my right brain by Dr. Cobbs. I was put into surgery 6 days after diagnosis and went home the next day. The procedure was painless and all I need is some cyberknife follow up to be cancer free again. I was lucky to find Dr. Cobbs. read more

I found Dr. Cobbs to be very personable and nice. The reason I saw him was for a herniated disc but his experience with neurosurgery goes way beyond that. I felt that I was treated with respect and concern and that he gave me all the information I needed to make a very informed decision on my health care. I chose to have surgery because I felt he was very experienced and I trusted him. read more

Dr. Cobbs is a first class surgeon of whom I could not list all his attributes in this small space. I was a San Francisco Police Officer in 2006 when my back was seriously injured at work attempting to break up a gang fight. One disc had ruptured ( literally exploded ) and two other disc's were also ruptured. The first time I met Dr. Cobbs I saw that he had a bedside manner that was practically unheard of. Friendly, genuinely caring and a great personality. Dr. Cobb's performed this complicated surgery ( he found other disc problems during the surgery) and my recovery was practically pain free. Over the next five years Dr. Cobb's performed three other back surgeries and two neck surgeries regarding ruptured disc's. One of the neck surgeries required a very invasive operation from the front where three disc's in my neck needed to be fused and bracketed with a metal brace. I have had no problems as a result of Dr. Cobb's surgeries, only relief from the initial pain. The problems in my back will require a lifetime of surgeries due to the numerous injuries I sustained as a police officer for 26 years. Sadly for me and his patients, Dr. Cobb's left for a position in Seattle, Washington, a position which he highly deserves and is qualified for. I have had two more back surgeries since Dr. Cobb's left ( other surgeons) and I am awaiting another surgery in a couple of months. San Francisco's loss of Dr. Cobb's is definitely Seattle's gain. If anyone reading this is considering a surgery with Dr. Cobb's I would tell them do not worry, you are in the best hands possible. Thank you Dr. Cobb's for everything and God bless you and your family. Sincerely David P Bardoni, retired S.F.P.D. read more

One thinks at the point of high pain, the idea of ever walking again is out the window and what a wheel chair or worse under those moments of panicking and never ever running out of those dam pills better never happen. Even thought you will never having a smile on your face again. You have in the back of your mind some space left to hope; believing that you can get well again is there and it is true. One has to put faith in someone hands besides THE BIG GUY UP STAIRS. Because no matter how depressed or anger you have become. You are going to use a doctor be it a western or an eastern one or the combination. They have a very important place in the world of the injured. Call Dr. Cobbs see has a bed side manner that reassure one that he can make you feel battle is not over with yet. The odds have just gone up a notch, and the outcome is looking better. It's just the healing time that one become aware that you are better but then the mere thought of physical therapy is a bit uncomfortable but that is the home stretch and that is where Dr. Charles Cobb has put his love for his fellow man to use he is a great surgeon . Thank you Ron Gross read more