Cody Tillinghast, MD

Biography

Dr. Cody Tillinghast is an orthopedic spine surgeon and assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. He is board eligible by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions through both surgical and nonsurgical approaches.

His clinical interests include spine trauma and fractures, degenerative and arthritic spine conditions, spinal stenosis, myelopathy, herniated discs, spinal deformity and scoliosis, revision spine surgery, spinal fusion, and neck and back pain. Dr. Tillinghast is also trained in minimally invasive spine surgery and utilizes navigation and robotics-assisted technology to enhance surgical accuracy and improve patient outcomes when appropriate.

Dr. Tillinghast takes a patient-centered, individualized approach to spine care, combining evidence-based treatment strategies with empathy and clear communication. His goal is to help patients achieve the best possible quality of life through conservative management or advanced surgical solutions.

Originally from Arizona, Dr. Tillinghast graduated summa cum laude from the University of Arizona with a degree in biology and minors in Spanish and chemistry. He earned his medical degree and completed his orthopedic surgery residency at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. He then completed a fellowship in orthopedic spine surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, where he trained with world-renowned spine surgeons in advanced and complex spinal procedures.

Dr. Tillinghast is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and AO Spine North America, and remains engaged in ongoing research and education within the field of spine surgery. He is proficient in English and Spanish, allowing him to care for a diverse patient population effectively.

Dr. Tillinghast sees patients in The Woodlands, Texas, and welcomes individuals from surrounding communities. He is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate spine care backed by academic excellence and multidisciplinary support from UTHealth Houston.