Dr. Gina Monaco

Gina Monaco, M.D., Ph.D.

– Board Certified Neurosurgeon

Cutting-edge neurosurgery in Southeast Missouri

Dr. Gina Monaco, M.D., Ph.D., is certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and remains committed to ongoing education and clinical research in the evolving field of neurosurgery. During her neurosurgical residency at Indiana University, she completed a neurosurgical oncology fellowship and focused on oncological disorders affecting the nervous system such as metastasis (spread of cancer) to the brain and spine as well as primary brain tumors. Dr. Monaco brings a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to the diagnosis and management of neurosurgical disorders.

Her practice is grounded in commitment to patient-focused, evidence-based neurosurgery, helping individuals and families understand and manage even the most complex neurosurgical conditions with clarity and confidence.

Dr. Gina Monaco, M.D., Ph.D.

Areas of Specialization

Dr. Monaco provides expert care in a wide range of neurosurgical areas, including:

Dr. Monaco finds great reward in improving her patients’ lives through both neurosurgical operations and non-surgical options. Her patients appreciate her individualized, thorough, and compassionate approach.

Education and Medical Training

Her academic training reflects a deep commitment to both clinical neurosurgical and neuroscience research, equipping her to bring a highly informed, innovative perspective to patient care.

A Modern, Research-Driven Approach to Neurosurgical Care

Dr. Monaco’s care philosophy is rooted in precision, empathy, and ongoing discovery. She prioritizes:

She is particularly passionate about supporting women in neurology and mentoring future clinicians and researchers.

Meet her team members

Logan Sprandel, PA-C – Certified Physician Assistant

Dedicated Spine and Neurosurgery Provider in Southeast Missouri

Logan Sprandel, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant at Regional Brain & Spine, specializing in comprehensive neurosurgical and spine care. Known for his clinical precision, thorough evaluations, and compassionate patient approach, Logan works closely with Neurosurgeon, Dr. Gina Monaco, to ensure seamless, expert care from diagnosis to recovery.

He plays an essential role in helping patients understand their conditions, navigate treatment plans, and achieve better neurosurgical and functional outcomes.

Clinical Expertise and Role

Logan supports Dr. Monaco and team in both outpatient and inpatient settings. His areas of clinical responsibility include:

Logan’s attention to detail and patient-first mindset ensure that individuals feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their healthcare journey.

Education and Professional Credentials

Logan is trained in the latest evidence-based approaches to neurosurgical care and continues to advance his skills through continuing education and clinical mentorship.

Approach to Patient Care

Logan believes that excellent care begins with listening. His patient philosophy is centered on:

Patients appreciate Logan’s calm demeanor, thoroughness, and ability to help them feel at ease during often stressful medical experiences.

Cole Ross, FNP-C – Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Collaborative Spine and Neurosurgical Care for Southeast Missouri Patients

Cole Ross, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Regional Brain & Spine, where he provides comprehensive care for patients with brain, spine, and peripheral nerve conditions. With a strong clinical foundation and a passion for collaborative care, Cole supports patients throughout their treatment journey—ensuring clarity, comfort, and continuity of care.

His ability to blend clinical expertise with genuine compassion makes him a trusted member of the neurosurgery team.

Clinical Focus and Patient Care

Cole plays a key role in supporting both surgical and non-surgical patients in outpatient and inpatient settings. His responsibilities include:

His proactive approach helps patients better understand their health and make confident decisions about their care.

Education and Professional Credentials

Cole brings experience and perspective from both primary care and specialty practice, allowing him to provide well-rounded, holistic support for patients managing chronic or complex conditions.

Care Philosophy

Cole’s patient care philosophy centers on empathy, accessibility, and clinical excellence. He believes that patients benefit most when they are active participants in their care and fully understand their treatment plans.

Patients value Cole’s calm, compassionate demeanor and his ability to provide meaningful support during challenging times.

Trusted Neurosurgeons Serving Southeast Missouri

Dr. Monaco is proud to be part of the multidisciplinary team at Regional Brain & Spine, providing comprehensive and neurosurgery services. We proudly serve patients in Cape Girardeau, MO and surrounding communities.

Contact Us – Regional Brain & Spine

Looking for expert neurosurgical and spine care in Southeast Missouri, Western Kentucky, or Southern Illinois? Regional Brain & Spine makes it easy to connect with our team. Whether you’re a new patient or already established, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Request an Appointment

Any patient type, new or established, may call or use our general contact form to request an appointment.

Please note that all Regional Brain & Spine providers accept self referrals.

Our Office Locations

Cape Girardeau, MO (For All Specialties)

Farmington, MO (Physiatry/Weight Management Only)

Dexter, MO (Pain Management Only)

Serving Patients Across the Region

Regional Brain & Spine proudly provides advanced neurosurgery, pain management, physiatry, and obesity medicine services to patients throughout:

No matter which location is most convenient for you, our team is committed to delivering compassionate, specialized care close to home.

Get in Touch Today

Have questions about your appointment, insurance, or services? Call our main office in Cape Girardeau at (573) 332-7746. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you schedule your visit or connect you to the right department.