The Authority in Spine Pathology & Causation.
Fellowship-Trained Spine Surgeon. CIME Certified. Active Clinical Practice.
Quick Facts
- Board-certified orthopedic surgeon
- Fellowship-trained in spine surgery
- Licensed in OH, KY, MI, CA
- Certified Independent Medical Examiner (CIME)
- ABIME 5th Edition certified
- Experienced expert witness
Professional Biography
Dr. Farbod Rastegar is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS), and Certified Independent Medical Examiner (CIME) — offering the gold standard of medico-legal spine care. He currently serves as Director of Spine Surgery at the University of Kentucky – St. Claire Health System and is the founder and principal surgeon of Cincinnati Elite Orthopedic & Spine.
After completing his undergraduate studies at UCLA and medical education at the University of Chicago – Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Rastegar completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Oregon Health & Science University, followed by advanced fellowship training in spinal reconstructive surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Dr. Rastegar has extensive experience performing Independent Medical Examination, expert witness testimony, record reviews and peer reviews for workers' compensation, personal injury and federal liability cases.
A specialist in minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS), lateral and anterior approaches, cervical arthroplasty, and neuromodulation, Dr. Rastegar maintains active medical licenses in Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, and California.
The CIME Standard: Bulletproof Methodology
Dr. Rastegar is one of the few spine surgeons in the region who is also a Certified Independent Medical Examiner (CIME) via ABIME.
- Defensible Ratings: Strict adherence to the AMA Guides (4th, 5th, & 6th Editions).
- Objective Analysis: Methodology that eliminates bias and withstands Daubert challenges.
- Global Recognition: A credential recognized by workers' compensation boards and courts worldwide.
Medicolegal Experience
Dr. Rastegar provides independent medical examinations and expert opinions for:
- Personal injury litigation
- Workers' compensation claims
- Social Security disability determinations
- Medical malpractice cases
He has been retained by both plaintiff and defense counsel and has extensive experience providing deposition and trial testimony.
His approach emphasizes objectivity, thoroughness, and clear communication. Dr. Rastegar's opinions are based solely on medical evidence, peer-reviewed literature, and accepted medical standards.
Education
- B.S. Molecular Cell & Developmental Biology — UCLA (2003–2006)
- Doctor of Medicine — University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine (2006–2011)
- Orthopedic Surgery Residency — Oregon Health & Science University (2011–2016)
- Fellowship, Spinal Reconstructive Surgery — Cleveland Clinic Foundation (2016–2017)
Board Certifications
- American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, Diplomate — 2019
- Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS) — 2025
- Certified Independent Medical Examiner (CIME), ABIME — 2026
Medical Licensure
- State of Ohio
- Commonwealth of Kentucky
- State of Michigan
- State of California
Why "Active Clinical Practice" Matters.
Many expert witnesses are retired physicians who no longer treat patients. Dr. Rastegar maintains a high-volume surgical practice.
The Legal Benefit
Juries trust experts who still operate. Dr. Rastegar's opinions are grounded in current surgical realities, not outdated textbooks. This makes his testimony immune to the common "professional witness" cross-examination strategy.
Approach to Medicolegal Work
Every case receives the same rigorous analysis regardless of retaining party.
Objectivity
All opinions are rendered without bias toward either party, based solely on medical evidence.
Evidence-Based
Conclusions are grounded in peer-reviewed literature and current medical standards.
Comprehensive
Every relevant aspect of the case is analyzed and addressed in detailed reports.
Clear Communication
Complex medical concepts are explained in terms accessible to legal professionals and juries.
Publications & Research
Dr. Rastegar has contributed to peer-reviewed medical literature and presented at national orthopedic conferences.
His research interests include spine biomechanics, surgical outcomes, and the intersection of clinical medicine and medicolegal practice.
- Peer-reviewed journal publications
- National conference presentations
- Book chapters on spine surgery
Teaching & Leadership
Dr. Rastegar is committed to medical education and has served as an instructor for orthopedic surgery residents and fellows.
He has held leadership positions in hospital departments and medical societies.
- Residency and fellowship instruction
- Hospital committee leadership
- Continuing medical education lecturer
Credentials & Affiliations