Conditions
From neck pain to neurogenic claudication, we evaluate symptoms in context and build a plan that matches your goals.
View conditions →Houston & multi-state spine care
Minimally invasive.
Maximally effective.
MIBSI · University Spine and Neurosurgery
Advanced spine and neurosurgical care focused on accurate diagnosis, evidence-based options, and faster return to motion when clinically appropriate.
Thank you for choosing MIBSI
Choosing a spine or neurosurgical provider is deeply personal—especially when surgery is on the table. Our team is committed to compassionate, transparent communication so you can make informed decisions and pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.
Our commitment
- Evidence-based pathways tailored to your diagnosis
- Clear discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives
- Coordination across locations for continuity of care
Providers
Fellowship-trained specialists focused on thoughtful indications and technical excellence.
About Dr. Li →Support
From your first visit through follow-up, our staff is available to answer questions and help you navigate care.
Contact us →Special offers
Programs may change; eligibility is determined at consultation. Contact us for current availability.
Free second opinion
Bring outside imaging and notes—we will review whether additional evaluation or treatment aligns with your diagnosis.
Free MRI / CT review
Structured review of outside imaging can clarify anatomy and whether surgical or non-surgical care is reasonable to consider.
Meet our physician
Dr. Y. Michael Li, MD, PhD
Neurosurgeon
Dr. Yan Michael Li is an award-winning, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in complex spine disease and brain & spine tumors—with strong interests in minimally invasive spine surgery, navigation, and robotic-assisted techniques when appropriate.
- Director & Clinical Assistant Professor, MIBSI — University Spine and Neurosurgery
- Fellowship-trained spine and tumor neurosurgeon
Clinical interests include simple and complex spine surgery, minimally invasive approaches, and computer-assisted navigation to improve accuracy. Your candidacy for any technology is determined individually.
Why minimally invasive surgery? →Treatments
Educational overview of common procedures. Not all options apply to every patient; final recommendations are made after evaluation.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
Advanced techniques that target spinal pathology through smaller corridors, aiming to reduce muscle injury and support recovery.
Learn more →Microdiscectomy
Microsurgical removal of herniated disc material to relieve nerve compression, commonly for sciatica or radiculopathy.
Learn more →Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior approach to the cervical spine to remove diseased disc, decompress the spinal cord or nerves, and fuse the segment.
Learn more →Posterior Spinal Fusion
Fusion performed from the back of the spine to limit painful motion or stabilize deformity or instability.
Learn more →Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
Lumbar fusion with interbody cage placement via a transforaminal corridor to restore height and alignment.
Learn more →Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
Fusion from the anterior abdominal approach to the lumbar spine, often for discogenic pain or deformity correction support.
Learn more →Insurance information
We participate with many major insurance plans. Coverage varies by policy; our team can help you understand benefits and authorization requirements when applicable.
Testimonials
Patient experiences are individual; results vary. These comments do not guarantee outcomes.
“It was good to be treated with professionalism and care. Doctor Li and his staff gave me the best care I needed. They took the time to explain every step of the procedure, and even called the following day to see how I was feeling.”
“There are no words to adequately express my gratitude to you and your team. I am so thankful for the work you do and the part you played in prolonging my husband’s life. You have given him the gift of time with our family. I will forever be grateful.”
“This being my 6th back surgery, I was very hesitant. His confidence led me to proceed. I am on my way to feeling like my old self again—I could not walk a flight of stairs before surgery. I highly recommend Dr. Li.”
Locations
Dr. Li and partners see patients across multiple offices. Hours may vary; weekend visits are by appointment.
Houston Office
1880 S Dairy Ashford Rd, Suite 260
Ashford Crossing II, 6th Floor
Houston, TX 77077
Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: By appointment only
San Antonio Office
4910 Golden Quail, STE 170
San Antonio, TX 78240
Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: By appointment only
Syracuse (New York) Office
475 Irving Ave, #402
Syracuse, NY 13210
Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: By appointment only
Duncanville Office
310 S Clark Rd, Ste D
Duncanville, TX 75116
Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: By appointment only