ABOUT
Dr. Tan (Dan) Chen is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon based in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. He is a recognized specialist in minimally invasive spine surgery, outpatient procedures, enhanced recovery after surgery, and complex spinal reconstructions. Dr. Chen completed his undergraduate studies in neuroscience with high honors at Dartmouth College and Harvard University, followed by his medical degree from Michigan State University. He went on to complete his orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Toronto, where he also pursued an elite combined orthopaedic and neurosurgical fellowship in complex spine and trauma surgery.
Known for his compassionate, patient-centered approach, Dr. Chen is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized spine care tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. He combines advanced surgical expertise with the latest minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain, enhance safety, and accelerate recovery, helping patients regain mobility, confidence, and quality of life as quickly and comfortably as possible.
CONDITIONS
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Cervical Degenerative Facet Disease
Cervical Herniated Disc
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical Myelopathy
Cervical Traumatic Fractures
Cervical Deformity
Thoracic Degenerative Disc Disease
Thoracic Deformity
Thoracic Radiculopathy
Thoracic Myelopathy
Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Lumbar Flatback Deformity
Lumbar Scoliosis
Lumbar Fractures
Lumbar Herniated Disc
Lumbar Muscle Spasm
Lumbar Radiculopathy
Lumbar Sprain
Lumbar Stenosis
Coccydynia/Tailbone Pain
Sacroiliac Joint Disease
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Spinal Pseudoarthrosis/Non-union
Hardware Failure/Loosening
Adjacent Segment Disease
PATIENT TESTIMONIALS
RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS
Dr. Chen has extensive research interests in cutting-edge minimally invasive spinal techniques, motion preservation and arthroplasty, enhanced recovery after surgery, perioperative optimization of patient outcomes, and the management of degenerative and deformity-related spinal conditions. In addition to his busy clinical practice, Dr. Chen holds multiple academic appointments and has an impressive record of scholarly contribution, with more than 50 peer-reviewed publications and over 125 presentations at national and international academic conferences. Dr. Chen’s research pursuits reflect his unwavering passion for delivering individualized, effective, and innovative spinal treatments that prioritize patient safety and promote rapid post-operative recovery.
A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Chen has guided numerous pre-medical students, medical students, orthopedic and neurosurgical residents, and spine fellows, fostering the next generation of medical professionals and advancing the field of spine surgery.
RECOGNITIONS
Dr. Chen is an orthopaedic spine surgeon recognized for his contributions to clinical care, research, and education. Named to the North American Spine Society’s (NASS) Top 20 Under 40, he is among a select group of emerging leaders helping advance the field of spine surgery. His work focuses on surgical innovation, minimally invasive techniques, and individualized treatment strategies designed to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Chen has received multiple research honors, including national best research presentation awards, resident and fellow research awards from the University of Toronto and the Eastern Orthopaedic Association, and finalist recognition in the American Medical Association Research Challenge. He is an invited speaker at leading national and international conferences, including the AANS/CNS Spine Summit, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), and Becker’s Spine and Orthopaedics, where he discusses emerging technologies, evolving surgical techniques, and the future of spine care. His academic contributions have been recognized by the AME Surgical Journal, which named him an Outstanding Author, and the Journal of Spine Surgery, which recognized him as Reviewer of the Month. His expertise has also been featured in publications including Becker’s Spine Review, Best in Pennsylvania Magazine, and Silver Circle Magazine.
His clinical achievements include repeated recognition as a Top Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon by America’s Best Doctors and Top Doctors New York. He has also been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who and received multiple young surgeon grants, travel awards, and academic fellowships in recognition of his research, professional development, and contributions to spine care.
Outside medicine, Dr. Chen is an accomplished competitive foil fencer and former captain of the Dartmouth College Fencing Team, where he helped lead the team to regional and national success. He subsequently earned multiple state medals in men’s foil at the Michigan State Championships and the State Games of Michigan. The discipline, strategic thinking, and attention to detail developed through competitive fencing continue to inform his approach to surgical practice.
AFFILIATIONS
LOCATIONS & APPOINTMENTS
Inova Orthopedics – Springfield
6355 Walker Ln. Ste 202
Alexandria VA 22310
Important Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. Dr. Chen makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and is not liable for any actions taken based on it. Individual results may vary. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

