D. Kojo Hamilton, MD, is a recognized leader in scoliosis, adult spinal deformity and trauma. He is also renowned for neurological surgery education and mentoring.
He received his medical degree and residency training from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Va. He underwent further subspecialty training in complex spine, spinal deformity, scoliosis and spine surgical oncology, with a combined neurosurgical and orthopedic (AOSpine) fellowship, at the University of Virginia. Dr. Hamilton further received subspecialty cranial training in Auckland City Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand.
(See Hamilton Presented with Pitt Leadership Award)
He is board certified in neurological surgery, a member of the Society of Neurological Surgeons, a fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and a member of the Scoliosis Research Society. After training, Dr. Hamilton received appointments at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and Maryland Shock Trauma Hospital where he treated patients with complex spine deformity, severe spine and brain trauma.
Before joining UPMC, Dr. Hamilton was at the Oregon Health and Science University Spine Center where he treated patients with neurological trauma as well as spinal deformity conditions including adult idiopathic scoliosis, spondylolisthesis and general back and neck pain.
Dr. Hamilton is nationally involved in teaching advanced and current techniques in scoliosis and adult spine deformity. He has an extensive research background in spine surgery and has presented nationally and internationally on the subject.
Dr. Hamilton has received several awards and accolades from his patients, nurses and peers, including best doctor awards—locally and nationally.
Dr. Hamilton's publications can be reviewed through the National Library of Medicine's publication database.
Specialized Areas of Interest
Board Certifications
American Board of Neurological Surgery
Fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Hospital Privileges
Professional Organization Membership
Professional Activities
Education & Training
- BS (High Honors), Biochemistry, University of Maryland, 1998
- MD, University of Virginia, 2003
- Fellowship, Brain and Spine, Auckland City Hospital, 2008
- Residency, University of Virginia, 2009
- Fellowship, Complex Spine, University of Virginia, 2010
Honors & Awards
- Castle Connolly Top Doctors in America, 2016-25
- Larry E. Davis Excellence in Leadership Award, University of Pittsburgh, 2024
- UPMC Physician Excellence Award, UPMC Physician Excellence in Leadership, 2023
- Faculty Teaching Award, Department of Neurological Surgery, 2020
- Distinguished Alumni, Univ of Virginia Summer Medical and Dental Education Program
Research Activities
Educational and outcomes-driven research in adult spinal deformity continues to evolve, with a sustained focus on spinal alignment and decompression. Over the past year, particular emphasis has been placed on understanding the cumulative impact of perioperative complications. This body of work has not only deepened our insight into patient care but has also garnered national and international recognition—prompting meaningful discussions around redesigning clinical pathways to improve long-term outcomes.
As co-director of the Spine Computational Outcomes Learning Institute (SCOLI), Dr. Hamilton’s educational mission is centered on advancing knowledge through technology-driven research to better understand the biomechanics of the human spine. His current initiatives include the development of intelligent metamaterial implants in partnership with Amir Alavi, PhD. These implants are designed to proactively address challenges like failed spinal fusion, enabling earlier interventions and improving surgical outcomes.
SCOLI also leads pioneering efforts in educational research using advanced neuroimaging to identify neurotrauma, alongside the application of biomarkers to enhance both the detection and treatment of neurological injury. Through these projects, SCOLI continues to serve as a platform for advancing spine education, clinical decision-making, and patient-centered outcomes.
Media Appearances
How to Effectively Train Neurosurgery Residents
CNS Optimizing Neurosurgical Practice podcast
November 1, 2024
Some Adults With Scoliosis Could Require Major Corrective Surgery
December 20, 2017
KDKA-TV Health Watch
Physical Therapy for Lower Spine Problems (UPMC Health Beat)
Dr. Hamilton recommends physical therapy to YouTube dance host to solve pain from degenerative disc disease.