Orthopedic surgeon
Brett D. Rosenthal, M.D.
Locations: Des Moines (Downtown), Ankeny, Newton, Pleasant Hill, Webster City, West Des Moines
About Dr. Rosenthal
Dr. Brett Rosenthal is a board-certified orthopaedic spine surgeon who specializes in the treatment of disorders of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
Dr. Rosenthal is originally from the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, with a major in physics. He then received his M.D. from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. He subsequently completed his orthopaedic surgery residency training at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Rosenthal then completed advanced training at the Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Spine Surgery fellowship under the guidance of world-renowned leaders in the field of spine surgery.
Throughout his training, Dr. Rosenthal cultivated a desire to push the forefront of research on various topics within spinal surgery. As such, he has published over 15 peer-reviewed original research publications. He has also written over a dozen book chapters and review articles. Dr. Rosenthal’s research has also been presented at the podium at both national and international conferences. He was also a reviewer for three of the largest spine research journals in the country.
Dr. Rosenthal entered the field of orthopaedics to create rapid improvements in patients’ quality of life. He elected to pursue additional specialty training in spine surgery because of the field’s ongoing innovations. Dr. Rosenthal’s particular surgical interest is in the appropriate and safe use of minimally invasive and motion-sparing (non-fusion) surgical techniques. He values keeping his patients as active and comfortable as possible. Whether it requires conservative treatments or surgery, a patient’s mobility, strength, and pain control are his top priorities.
When not at work, Dr. Rosenthal loves spending time with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys golfing, playing pickleball, and going bowling in his free time.
Harvard Combined Spine Fellowship – Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham & Women’s Hospital; Boston, MA
Residency
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University; Chicago, IL
Medical Degree
Emory University School of Medicine; Atlanta, GA
Undergrad
Duke University; Durham, NC
Member of the Mid-America Orthopaedic Association
Member of the North American Spine Society
Sciatica
Herniated and bulging discs
Spinal arthritis
Spinal stenosis
Degenerative disc disease
Minimally invasive disc replacement surgeries and fusions
Work-related injuries
IME
Get to Know Dr. Brett Rosenthal – Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
My Team
Patient Reviews
August 6, 2025
Dr Rosenthal took the time to explain procedures and expected outcomes. Very personable and easy to talk to.
Patient Submitted Review
July 18, 2025
I never actually met Dr. Rosenthal but his PA was really great. Also, the wonderful, beautiful women in the MRI department that helped me this morning were amazing, friendly, compassionate, intelligent, and so comforting! I appreciate all of their help!
Patient Submitted Review
July 3, 2025
River Hills is an excellent surgical center .All. Medical personnel were very efficient and pleasant to work with. I really appreciated my experience here, and would recommend it to friends.
Patient Submitted Review
July 2, 2025
I was very pleased with my initial visit with Dr. Rosenthal. He’s very thorough and kind. I highly recommend him.
Patient Submitted Review
June 26, 2025
I had an appointment and was set up with an MRI so the Surgeon can get a better look. Feeling very Confident so far. Have a follow up appointment coming soon.
Patient Submitted Review
June 12, 2025
Dr. Rosenthal met me for the first time today. He was kind, realistic but encouraging. A patient listener. I am extremely grateful for his attention to my case and his suggestions for my future care.
Patient Submitted Review
June 11, 2025
Dr Rosenthal and his team did a great service for me with lower back fusion. No more sever pain and cramping in left leg. The concern and professionalism helped me feel ready for what happened. Gave me the facts and explanations that helped afterwards. Very happy.
Patient Submitted Review
June 7, 2025
The Iowa Ortho team did a great job of taking. are of me at my recent surgery. Very compassionate and caring throughout my out patient surgery. Thorough with educating and preparing me for what to expect. Would highly recommend Dr Rosenthal and his team.
Patient Submitted Review
May 28, 2025
I really like doctor Brett Rosenthal he explained to me what he is plan on doing when I have my surgery on my back He answered all the questions that I had about what he was going to do with my back surgery
Patient Submitted Review
May 19, 2025
It felt great being listened to and immediately getting images done. Craig (Or Kraig, apologies I cannot remember the spelling) came in and talked to me afterwards and was so helpful in explaining and letting me know what was going on! The entire experience was great for my first time being there!
Patient Submitted Review
May 15, 2025
Dr. Rosenthal is a kind, patient and understanding. He really listens when you speak. I highly recommend.
Patient Submitted Review
May 12, 2025
Dr. Rosenthal seemed very knowledgeable, polite and made me fill at ease. I would diffenantely reccommend.
Patient Submitted Review
May 9, 2025
From the front desk, nursing, radiology and Dr. Rosenthal, everyone was kind, professional and all my needs were met. Dr. Rosenthal explained everything about my condition and took his time answering my questions. I would highly recommend Dr. Rosenthal and his staff.
Patient Submitted Review
April 15, 2025
Rosenthal is doctor who really cares and listens to your needs and concerns. He has a positive attitude and is comfortable being around. I would definitely recommend him to anyone with back problems!!
Patient Submitted Review
March 24, 2025
I always have the best experience with Dr Rosenthal. He is patient, kind, and he gets my weird sense of humor. He’s very thorough. I may want him to do it one thing and he wants to do something else or wait a while, I know it’s with my best interest at heart. And, he’s a great surgeon. Love and appreciate him.
Patient Submitted Review
March 20, 2025
The MRI techs were outstanding! Especially the brunette (sorry I didn’t get a name) very professional and very helpful!
Patient Submitted Review
March 11, 2025
Dr. Rosenthal is a fabulous spine surgeon. He did a lumbar fusion on me last year with complete resolution of symptoms! Fabulous credentials. I now need a fusion on my neck from a car crash last week. He took a substantial amount of time to explain my MRI results, the need for surgery so I reduced my chance of permanent residual loss and the surgery to help. Then he left the choice to me. I choose surgery. Kind, understanding of the hardship surgery entails and a perfect choice as a surgeon.
Patient Submitted Review
March 11, 2025
Dr. Rosenthal did surgery consisting of a lumbar fusion for a painful and mildly disabling condition I have had for many years. Perfect result with resolution of my symptoms. He took time to explain the procedure and what to expect. The result was beyond my expectations. His training is impeccable with a spine fellowship from Northwestern (one of the best) and M.D. degree from Emory (again, among the best medical schools). I would recommend him for anyone who needs spinal surgery. Plus he is kind and takes the time to listen to you.
Patient Submitted Review
March 10, 2025
The superior treatment and care I received From Brett Rosenthal at iowa orthopedic in Des Moines, Iowa was amazing. I commuted just to be able to go to their state-of-the-art facility in Des. Moines, Iowa. I am very pleased with my treatment at this facility
Patient Submitted Review
March 6, 2025
Brett Rosenthal best doctor . I had a good surgery thanks to him. He explained every detail. ( discectomy )( spine )
Patient Submitted Review
February 27, 2025
I enjoyed the people and was very satisfied with him, his knowledge, and his demeanor. Thanks for the support.
Patient Submitted Review
January 6, 2025
Dr Rosenthal is knowledgeable and so thorough. He has performed two surgeries and I’m recovering very well. My spine is straight with hardly any pain and it’s only 3 1/2 months since surgery. I’m thankful
Patient Submitted Review
July 24, 2024
Very good at explaining what we need to follow up on. I’m very impressed with him. I would deffently refer him to my friends and family members who might need his services. Can’t say enough about him I would give him 1 to 10 I would give him a 11
Patient Submitted Review
March 20, 2024
Dr. Brett Rosenthal is an OUTSTANDING orthopedic surgeon. He came prepared to my appointment with alternative solutions to help manage my pain. Dr. Rosenthal came highly referred to me. I’m very happy I utilized that referral and I would highly recommend Dr. Rosenthal to anyone who wants the BEST orthopedic surgeon.
Patient Submitted Review
March 7, 2024
This was my first time to meet Dr Rosenthal. I was very impressed with how thorough he was and how he explained his recommendations for my care.
Patient Submitted Review
February 9, 2024
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Rosenthal’s for a couple years now and he has been the absolute best. I just had back surgery on 2/7 and he was great. He came to visit me the morning of surgery and explained everything he was going to be doing during the operation in great detail. After the surgery he came to visit with me again to see how I was doing and was able to go over at home care with me too. He is so caring and takes time to genuinely listen to his patients and ask any and all questions. I’d recommend him to everyone needed a back / spine specialist. Dr. Rosenthal is seriously the best.
Patient Submitted Review
February 6, 2024
Dr. Rosenthal pinpointed the problem area quickly and professionally which opened a avenue of further future care with hopefully positive results.
Patient Submitted Review
September 22, 2023
Dr. Rosenthal is an excellent doctor. He listens . He explains everything to you and make sure you understand. He ask you if you have question. He answers them. Overall a great doctor
Patient Submitted Review
September 13, 2023
Dr. Brett Rosenthal is a true professional though and though. He is a kind and gentle man. He honestly takes the time to listen to his patients. My PCP told me that if he ever needs surgery, that Dr. Rosenthal is the man. I recently had back surgery and it wasn’t an easy one. He takes the time to listen to his patients and explains what needs to be done. He honestly cares about his patients and answers their questions and concerns. The morning of my surgery he came to go over the procedure and he visited me in my hospital room to see how I was doing. He told me everything he had to do to help me. Also told me what I needed to do to help myself.I am very grateful to have had the pleasure of having him as my Doctor! Thank you Dr.Rosenthal!
Patient Submitted Review
September 11, 2023
This is a doctor who will listen to you when you come to him in pain. Excellent and empathetic care.
Patient Submitted Review
September 8, 2023
He is very personable and explained the procedure well. Prepared me for what was to come and performed the surgery well. Had a great outcome and would recommend his surgical skills to everyone.
Patient Submitted Review
August 5, 2023
Dr. Rosenthal is very knowledgeable and has a great bedside manner. He listens to you, answers questions, and will put your mind at rest!
Patient Submitted Review
July 19, 2023
Dr. Rosenthal did surgery on my neck 5 days ago. I’m doing great, I’m 72y/o. Explained everything I needed to do to be ready and explained the procedure in a manner I could understand. His team is great and very helpful through the process. I’m pleased with my choice of Dr. R.
Patient Submitted Review
May 14, 2023
Dr. Rosenthal listened well, diagnosed, and explained my issues using language I understood. He also provided options for me to consider. I left feeling more hopeful than I had been in 20 years. (He couldn’t have helped me 20 years ago!) Judy Davis
Patient Submitted Review
May 9, 2023
Last week Brett and the surgical staff performed an ALIF and an instrumentation cage to reinforce the work done on the fusion. Brett was accommodating, explain the procedure to me both before the surgery, and after the surgery, had great bedside manner, and made me a feel confident that the work being done was not only necessary, but how the improvements will allow me to live a much better life physically going forward. I couldn’t be happier with how he and his team performed and I would recommend anyone that has back/nerve issues to trust Brett and his team.
Patient Submitted Review
March 9, 2023
It took me a long time to make the decision to see an orthopedic physician regarding my back issues. Dr. Rosenthal had been recommended by one of my long time friends. I was most impressed upon first meeting him and he put me at ease and made me so glad that I had made the appointment. He listened to my concerns and after explaining my X-rays put together a plan that I was fully agreeable to. I feel very confident in his care and highly recommend him for any spine issues.
Patient Submitted Review
November 23, 2022
My wife had some back surgery which Dr. Rosenthal preformed. She had good things to say about him. When I started having some pain in my back and front legs she recommended him. My first experience was very good. Dr. Rosenthal went over my recent MRI and the procedure another physician had preformed in details never before explained. I’m glad I listened to my wife’s advice. I’d recommend Dr. Rosenthal to anyone who is having back problems.
Patient Submitted Review
November 14, 2022
I was very unsatisfied with the care and bedside manners I was receiving prior to changing. To Dr Rosenthal. Since my first visit I have been very satisfied with his care and his bedside manner. I would recommend him to everyone
Patient Submitted Review
September 7, 2022
I recently had neck surgery. Dr. Rosenthal explained the procedure very well. The surgery was successful and I now have strength and use of my left arm and no neck pain. Highly recommend Iowa Ortho and Dr. Rosenthal.
Patient Submitted Review
August 11, 2022
Dr. Rosenthal really took the time to listen to all my inquiries regarding my health issues that I came to see him. Reviewed all my Medical records and I felt that I can continue seeking my health Issues with him. Really professional and very detail on his advices.
Patient Submitted Review
April 28, 2022
Dr. Rosenthal is a good mannered, easygoing, excellent spine surgeon and one I will continue to seek help when needed.
Patient Submitted Review
March 2, 2022
Dr Rosenthal and his team was extremely helpful before my back surgery and after. My surgery was very successful in the hands of Dr Rosenthal. I will be forever grateful to him. I will continue to use his expertise for anything in the future. I recommend Dr Rosenthal for your back health care.
Patient Submitted Review
December 11, 2021
Although this was my initial visit, I’m already impressed with how thorough Dr. Rosenthal is and a pleasant bedside manner. He’s very thorough and quick to answer any and all questions that I had. I’m looking forward to my next visit. If I do end up having surgery, I’m very comfortable with him doing it!
Patient Submitted Review
September 17, 2021
Great service, very friendly and thorough. Treatment process is timely yet effective. I feel like I am cared for and like I am getting the best treatment available.
Patient Submitted Review
April 29, 2021
Dr. R did surgery on my back. It was very good work. And has helped me tremendously! I would recommend Dr. Rosenthal to everyone. Thank God for Dr. Rosenthal.
Patient Submitted Review
April 10, 2021
I’ve been visiting him for about 3 years now and had recently gotten back surgery. He has been wonderful since day 1. He takes his time to fully explain everything and answers any questions you may have. He’s skilled and knows what he is doing. One of my trusted doctors that I would recommend.
Patient Submitted Review
March 9, 2021
This has been my second surgery with Dr Rosenthal. I am very happy with his skill and personal manner. My recovery has been on point in both instances. Thank you.
Patient Submitted Review
February 24, 2021
I saw Dr. Rosenthal for a check up about my cervical fusion. In addition he wanted to know how the rest of my back was doing and listened to me. Dr. Rosenthal is very caring, wanting to do his best for his patients. I highly recommend him.
Patient Submitted Review
September 18, 2020
Thank you for helping me Dr.Rosenthal. I think you and your staff were absolutely great in correcting my problem. I was treated with great respect from all involved. I would refer you to anyone that needed your help.You are a great doctor and if I should have another problem arise, I would want you to help me again. Thank you again, Becki Swedblom
Patient Submitted Review
August 8, 2020
Dr. Rosenthal was very thorough explaining my situation with my back and went over the MRI and X-rays with me so I know my options.
Patient Submitted Review
March 28, 2020
Dr. Rosenthal was friendly, knowledgeable and took the time to listen to my concerns. In no way did I feel he was rushing through the appt and he was very thorough in explaining things. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
Patient Submitted Review
February 2, 2020
The surgery went longer than I expected. But coming out of surgery without any pain and the use of my left arm working again. It was awesome, I would recommend Dr. Rosenthal to everyone who wants or needs this kind of surgery. Thanks for helping me to stop the pain with out the use of pain pills.
Patient Submitted Review
January 10, 2020
You are going to need to add more stars…Dr. Rosenthal would get ten stars in my book. He changed my life in two and one half hours of surgery…complete relief…what a great guy!!!
Patient Submitted Review
January 10, 2020
Dr. Rosenthal was so nice and personable. He listened, asked questions, and treated me as a whole patient. Even after he determined my health issue was not caused by my spine, he helped me search for answers. I really appreciated that!
Patient Submitted Review
January 4, 2020
Dr Rosenthal is Outstanding! I am so pleased that he was duty for Iowa Ortho when I was brought to the Mercy ER on Friday afternoon 12/20/19. I don’t think that the partial hip replacement that I had Sat night could possibly have gone any better. Hooray for Dr Rosenthal!!!
Patient Submitted Review
October 26, 2019
Dr Rosenthal was excellent. Not only did he know exactly what the problem was but knew how to correct it! His humanistic side made me comfortable and at ease. I would recommend him to anyone!
Patient Submitted Review
October 26, 2019
Dr Rosenthal was excellent. Not only did he know exactly what the problem was but knew how to correct it! His humanistic side made me comfortable and at ease. I would recommend him to anyone!
Patient Submitted Review
October 25, 2019
The doctor was kind and courteous showed us the C-spine MRI and showed us what he was going to do he was so kind about it all I would send all my friends there
Patient Submitted Review
October 19, 2019
Very kind. Informative. Reassuring. Accurate. Explains well. Not rushed. A terrific healthcare provider with outstanding skills.
Patient Submitted Review
October 17, 2019
He was kind, curious, listened, and thorough. He is supportive of finding the best possible explanation and outcome for my neck pain
Patient Submitted Review
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