Dr. Dean Borissov Kostov, MD is an accomplished neurosurgeon and neurointerventional specialist whose clinical expertise and patient-centered ethos have made him a standout figure in surgical care at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Virginia. His practice spans cranial and spine surgeries, stereotactic procedures, and endovascular neurosurgery — demonstrating a rare breadth of skill across some of neurosurgery’s most technically demanding areas. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Dr. Kostov completed his internship in general surgery and his neurosurgical residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) — one of the nation’s top neurosurgical training programs.
He further honed his expertise with a fellowship in neuroendovascular neurosurgery at UPMC, training in cutting-edge techniques used to treat vascular conditions of the brain and spinal cord.Throughout his career, Dr. Kostov has emphasized careful patient selection and personalized treatment plans. He often notes that effective neurosurgical care requires not just technical proficiency, but a deep understanding of patients’ symptoms and individual circumstances — a philosophy that reinforces the importance of patient engagement alongside surgical skill.In addition to conventional surgeries, Dr. Kostov is known for performing minimally invasive procedures, including advanced stereotactic biopsies and radiosurgery, which allow treatment with less trauma and faster recovery times.
He regularly collaborates with multidisciplinary teams — neurologists, neuroradiologists, oncologists, and rehabilitation specialists — to ensure comprehensive care throughout a patient’s treatment journey.In 2024, Dr. Kostov’s commitment to excellence was recognized alongside Dr. McAllister when both were named to Newsweek’s List of the 150 Best Spine Surgeons in the United States, a distinction based on peer ratings, surgical performance data, and board certification standards.
This honor highlights his impact not just in his local community, but on the national stage in spine care innovation.
Dr. Kostow’s approach extends beyond the operating room. He advocates for a team-based, multidisciplinary model of care where clinicians across specialties meet regularly to review complex cases and optimize outcomes. He believes this collaborative approach — coupled with investment in state-of-the-art imaging and navigation technologies — results in surgical outcomes comparable to those found in major academic centers.
Outside his surgical practice, Dr. Kostov enjoys an active life with his family, embracing activities like skiing, windsurfing, and cycling. His blend of technical mastery, patient-first philosophy, and dedication to multidisciplinary innovation makes him a compelling mover and shaker in modern neurosurgery.
