About Me

Mario Cardoso, MD, is a highly trained neurosurgeon who employs his expertise and compassion at Avera Medical Group Neurosurgery in Sioux Falls, SD.

Not only did he become a doctor to help others, it was his profound interest in the complex and rapidly changing field of neuroscience that drew him to treating conditions of the brain and spine.

Expert Care in Neurosurgery

Dr. Cardoso treats a variety of brain and spine conditions, such as:

  • Degenerative spine conditions, including radiculopathy and myelopathy
  • Deformities of the spine
  • Tumors found on the spine or in the brain
  • Essential tremors, a neurological disorder
  • Parkinson's disease

Treatment is personalized to patients’ exact needs. While he offers a wide spectrum of care, Dr. Cardoso’s holds a special interest in spine revision surgery for deformities as well as deep brain stimulation for tremors and Parkinson’s disease.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others and give back to my community through my interests and training,” he said.

Active Lifestyle

In his free time, Dr. Cardoso enjoys staying active with workout sessions and cycling.

Experience

Education

Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA, Chiropractic

Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, Medical School

Internships

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, Surgery

Residency

National Capital Consortium, Washington, DC, Neurosurgery

Fellowship

Northwestern University-McGaw Medical Center, Chicago, IL, Complex & Reconstructive Spine Surgery

Professional Memberships

  • Congress of Neurological Surgeons
  • American Association of Neurological Surgeons

Certifications

  • American Board of Neurological Surgery

Reviews

We value patient feedback and are committed to providing you with information, so you can make informed decisions about your health care, physicians and other providers in your care journey. Patient ratings and comments are gathered from the post-visit experience survey. Learn more.

December 12, 2025
All of the staff were very professional, helpful and pleasant. Dr Cardosa explained what was going on in my back and I had a great outcome with the surgery. I would highly recommend him to others.
November 09, 2025
Dr. Cardoso is the best. He thoroughly explains options, actively listens and I have full confidence in the medical care he provides.
November 01, 2025
Always pleased with the way I have been treated
October 11, 2025
Dr was never rushed
October 05, 2025
Thorough explanations!
September 28, 2025
Very good experience no problems whatsoever
September 12, 2025
Really like my Dr Cardoso. He listened to me talk to me so I understood everything. Even walked me down the hall going out. Very respectful
August 15, 2025
He did a great job of explaining and easing my fears
August 09, 2025
Dr. Cardoso was great!
May 30, 2025
He listened to what I was saying,very understanding, and answered all my questions
May 02, 2025
This was our best appointment we have had with Dr Cardoso. We spent 45 minutes together and he fully explained everything about my low back to my RN wife's satisfaction. Excellent appointment

Directory Disclaimers

This directory contains information about the provider members of Independent Health Care Associates, Avera Health and all Avera entities, members of the Avera Medical Group, and employed select providers with Avera McKennan, Sioux Falls, SD and Avera Marshall, Marshall, MN and physicians with hospital privileges at Avera St. Luke's, Aberdeen, SD; Avera Sacred Heart, Yankton, SD; Avera Queen of Peace, Mitchell, SD; Avera St. Mary's, Pierre, SD.

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