Merle Rust, MD

Dr. Merle S. Rust graduated Magna Cum Laude from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and a minor in business. He received his medical degree with honors from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honorary Medical Society and received both the David Mortimer Oikon and Smith-Kline outstanding student awards.

He completed his neurological surgery residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine – Peoria under the direction of chairman, Dr. Patrick W. Elwood, MD.

Prior to joining Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Dr. Rust served as an attending neurosurgeon at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey, MI as well as at Mercy Hospital and Trauma Center in Janesville, WI where he served as the neurosurgery liaison to the Level II trauma center.  He is board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery.

Dr. Rust’s clinical interests include management of traumatic brain and spinal injuries, degenerative spinal conditions, and brain tumors. Additionally, having started with the original S1 (now S8) Stealth Frameless Stereotactic system in his residency during the mid-90s, he continues to embrace and utilize advancements in image-based guidance for brain and spine applications. He greatly enjoys meeting and treating patients within the neurosurgical realm: striving for optimal results and high overall patient satisfaction, whether gained through conservative, non-operative means, or with surgery.

Outside interests include spending time with his family which includes providing mentorship to his son, Drew, who is completing a neurology residency in Michigan. He remains interested in aviation having previously obtained a private pilot certificate.