Providing Quality Neurosurgical Care Close to Home
7/2/2025
CLARKSVILLE, TN, July 2, 2025 – Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville launched Tennova Neurosurgery in May with the addition of Dr. Brett Simpson, a neurosurgeon who specializes in conditions affecting the nervous system and spine. The addition of neurosurgery means patients can get care close to home – an opportunity that is already making a difference for one Montgomery County resident.
David Chambers of Woodlawn was suffering from back pain after an off-road vehicle accident that left him with a spinal cord injury called central cord syndrome, which causes weakness in the upper and lower extremities and bladder issues. He had previously undergone back surgery, and was skeptical about additional surgery. However, when he met Dr. Simpson, he decided to undergo spinal surgery at Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville – a decision he says is already making a difference in his quality of life. "
“The minute I woke up from surgery with Dr. Simpson the pain was almost gone. I knew instantly I'd made the right decision," said David. “I'm able to do things now that I didn't expect to be doing at all, and I'm moving more and more in each therapy session. With the back pain gone, it's easier to be motivated." Because David’s symptoms were the result of an injury, Simpson says time was of the essence to repair the damage.
“The goal of surgery is to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the spine so that the spinal cord can attempt to heal,” said Simpson. “This should be done within 48 hours of the injury to get the best result. Our ability to perform this type of surgery at Tennova as well as provide the appropriate after care was critical in this situation. David is now able to move both of his arms – that’s the real success story.”
Chambers began his recovery from surgery in Tennova’s inpatient rehabilitation center, and transitioned to outpatient physical therapy. The opportunity to expand vital healthcare services in the Clarksville community is one of the reasons Simpson chose Tennova Healthcare to practice.
“There is no reason that people in Clarksville and the surrounding area should be traveling outside of Montgomery County for spine surgery – it should be available right here in the community,” said Simpson “What I’m finding is that many people have been living with pain because they don’t want to make the drive to Nashville for surgery. It’s very gratifying to be part of Tennova’s efforts to expand access to care by offering neurosurgical services close to home.”
Dr. Simpson added that as a new physician at Tennova Clarksville, he has been impressed by the commitment of every team member to support patients and their families. David Chambers agrees that the staff went above and beyond to support him during his stay.
“My care here, from Dr. Simpson to nurses to therapy, has been extraordinary. I’m so glad I came to Tennova,” said David. For more information and to request an appointment with Dr. Simpson, visit www.tennovaclarksvilledocs.com.
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