Tracey Romero

What Octogenarian ACDF Patients Can Teach Us About Dysphagia

The Pelvic Parameter That's Tired of Living in PI's Shadow

Pelvic Tilt can sometimes feel like grading a marathon when everyone started at different starting lines.

Vancomycin Powder: No Need to Rewrite the Playbook

Super study, one of the only randomized control tests of the long-term effects of vancomycin powder in spine surgery.

What Really Drives ACDF Cost? (Hint: Ain’t the Gloves.)

What actually drives the cost of your ACDF?

Is it Misleading to Blame Corpectomies for Complication Rates?

Do corpectomies cause more complications or do complications cause more corpectomies?

Renal Osteodystrophy: When Bones Bite Back

The MRI looks straightforward. Cervical fusion is indicated. Plan’s solid. Then you notice two words buried in the medical history: Renal osteodystrophy.

When Good TLIFs Go Bad: Lessons From 756 Tubular Fusions

What actually predicts reoperation after minimally invasive tubular transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)? Luck? Surgical gremlins?

The Multiple Personalities of the Lumbar Spine

Is lumbar lordosis two completely different biomechanical structures?

When the Lumbar Spine Retires, the Hips Pick Up Overtime

On average, per this newly published Spine journal paper, lumbar fusion causes hip motion to increase 7o and thereby accelerate hip deterioration.

Is the Multifidus Trying to Tell You Something?

The multifidus may be the most forgotten or ignored or missed, but important, muscle in the spine.

The Neck Was Fixed...So Why Isn't the Patient Happy?

Spine surgeons operate on the spine, but they treat people — which hits home with patients dealing with depression.

Age Is Just a Number (Especially After a PCDF)

This is a truly fun study. The question is: Do older spine fusion patients, who generally present with more co-morbidities, have better or worse PROMs than younger patients?

When the Medication List Starts Telling the True ACDF Story

Provocative and important new study documents the additional costs, notably 45% higher opioid use, associated with ACDF patients who are also taking antipsychotic meds.

When One More Level Changes the ACDF Game

Interesting retrospective study. 3-level ACDF versus 4-level ACDF.

The Sacroiliac Joint Fusion and Hip Tango

Two hip OA groups, 4,383 patients in each one. One group had SI joint fusion. One did not. Ten-year follow-up.

Can EOS Spot Sarcopenia Faster?

Really clever use of the EOS standing image system. Because it’s an upright patient, staff can measure thigh and quad muscle thickness.

Frailty: The Plot Twist You Can't Ignore in Lumbar Spine Surgery

Five simple questions can change lumbar spine fusion outcome odds approximately 80% in elderly patients. What are those powerful questions?

Is the Long Game Worth the Anterior Approach for Younger Patients?

Long term, does the anterior approach “own” the transforaminal approach?

The Great Disc Wars: Endoscope vs. Microscope in Lumbar Discectomy

You say tomato, I say tomahto…or in this case, you say endoscope, I say microscope. For lumbar disc herniation is there any discernible outcome difference across surgeons and clinics?

The VTE Time Clock Ticks Months After Spine Surgery

Venous thromboembolism risk hovers over all spine patients for weeks or, is it months (?) after surgery.

When the Spine Drifts Sideways: The Two-Year ODI Plot Twist

Really interesting new study from the Spine Study Group. Why do some adult deformity patients slip backwards after year 1 postop?

MAP Goals in Acute SCI: Are You Chasing Numbers or Saving Neurons?

So, according to this study, mean arterial pressure (MAP) goals for acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) are overrated. But what else do you do?

Secret Sauce in Endoscopic Spine Surgery? Not a Robot

It’s something simple, inexpensive but, according to this just published, peer-reviewed study, shaves a full 40 minutes from full endoscopic lumbar decompression surgery. What is it?

What AIS Patients Actually Remember About Recovery

A recent qualitative study explores how adolescents experience recovery after posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

When’s The Numbness Going Away?

Pretty common question and now a study with answers. “Doc, when will the numbness go away?”

The Curious Case of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis in AIS

What if proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) isn't always a complication? What if it's the spine's way of reminding you who it really is?

Cervical Disc Arthroplasty: Double the Discs, Double the Trouble?

What happens when one artificial disc becomes two? Does adding another level double the benefit — or double the trouble?

The Eternal Question: Steroid Use in Spinal Metastases

A patient rolls into the ED with progressive weakness, an MRI glowing like Times Square, and someone inevitably asks the question: “What’s the dex dose?”

The Cervical Cord vs. The Bladder: Who Wins After Surgery?

Then the patient leans in and asks: “Doc…but what about my bladder?”

The Bur Heard Around Arthroscopy: JPI Wins 2026 AANA Lightbulb Award

Orthopedic surgeons know how to “get the perfect angle” during arthroscopy.

Instrumented vs. Non-Instrumented Fusion in Elderly Patients

Instrumented or non-instrumented lumbar fusion? Is that still a thing?

Does Timing Matter in Elderly Thoracolumbar Fractures?

Should you rethink the dogma that every unstable thoracolumbar fracture is a race against the clock?”

Why Cervical Deformity Patients Keep the ICU Team Awake at Night

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is not your straightforward L4–5 decompressions where everyone’s home by dinner.

‘Cyberchondria’: THE New Diagnosis Infecting U.S. Spine Clinics

Diagnosis: Cyberchondria. Is there a treatment? Yes. This paper has practical advice.

The Acne Bug That Came for Your Disc Space

Solid rat study demonstrated the damage that the “acne bug”, aka: Cutibacterium acnes, inflicts on discs over time.

Filling a Critical Gap in Metastatic Spine Care

One research team sought to tackle this neglect and inject some clarity into the chaos surrounding epidural cauda-equina compression (ECEC).

The Lumbar Disc Replacement Paradox

How much does spine motion preservation matter — long term? A newly published systematic review of 27 published studies…

Clots and Thoracolumbar Trauma: Who’s Rolling the Dice on VTE?

The fracture is fixed, the screws look beautiful, the postop CT is pristine…and then the patient throws you a curveball.

When the AI Reads Your MRI…and Misses the Stenosis

A new diagnostic accuracy study asked an increasingly obvious but fraught question…

When the Cervical Cord Squeezes…Does the Brain Notice?

Could earlier cervical cord decompression mean clearer thinking, not just better walking?

Lumbar PSO: The Surgery That Secretly Rewrites the Game Plan

Why, after lumbar correction and cervical alignment, does the cervical spine drift back into malalignment two years later?

Lumbar Microdiscectomy: Is the Post-Op Lecture Necessary?

This 2-arm RCT study tested how much patient compliance (or noncompliance) with postop activity instructions affected outcomes.

When the Spine Fuses but the Mind Refuses

Depressed vs non-depressed patients, what are the post-op ramifications and cost?

Prehab Before the Tether: Can Lungs Be Trained Like Hamstrings?

AVBT has become the cool, motion-preserving cousin in the AIS family. No fusion. Growth modulation. Happy parents. Excited kids. And then…the lungs remind us who’s really in charge.

Three-Column Osteotomy: The Neurologic Tightrope Surgeons Walk

There are few moments in spine surgery that feel as heroic — and as humbling — as committing to a three-column osteotomy (3CO).

High Satisfaction, High Readmission: The AS/DISH Paradox

New study tackles a particularly difficult and complex patient cohort — ankylosing spondylitis and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis patients.

When Acupuncture Meets the Unfolded Protein Response

Can a needle-knife calm down cervical radiculopathy by taming endoplasmic reticulum stress through the IRE1α–XBP1 pathway?

Pedicle Screws, Bone Quality, and the Great Anchorage Debate

A clever cadaveric study finally puts some real biomechanical data behind a question: Is it the pedicle doing the heavy lifting…

When the SRS-22 Says “They’re Fine”…But They Aren’t

The SRS 22 says your adolescent scoliosis patient is fine, but really many are not.

ACDF and the Great Medication Vanishing Act (…Mostly)

The beauty of this newly published study is its methodology — objective data, massive patient data set…

Burst Fractures: Surgery and Bracing Cross the Same Finish Line

The AO has spoken and it didn’t resolve anything. Talking spine burst fractures.

Global Imbalance and the Hidden Risk of Pelvic Fixation Failure

Pelvic fixation failure (PFF) is rare, underrecognized, but when it happens, it feels deeply unfair — because the case looked great at closure.

Why 70-Year-Olds May Be Your Best PLDF Patients

“Doc…am I too old for this surgery?” Not exactly. And in some ways…the 70-year-olds may be beating all of us.

Return to Work After CDR vs ACDF

What’s the CDR vs ACDF debate all about? Adjacent segment disease? Motion? For patients it’s about TIME.

GNRI as the Hidden Predictor of Deformity Surgery Outcomes

What one spine patient risk factor drives FIVE different adverse events?

Disc Arthroplasty: The MVP of Return to Work

Everything else being equal, what’s getting back to work 10 days faster worth to your single level disc degeneration patient?

When Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Is Whispering

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the clinical equivalent of that patient who “just feels off.”

Why Outpatient ALIF and LLIF Are Beating the Hospital at Own Game

The newest battleground isn’t about approach — it’s about the street address — hospital…or ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?

Return to Work: The Real Cervical Outcome Measure

Patients who are treated with CDR get back to work 35-58% faster in the first year as compared to cervical fusion patients.

Growth Guidance Surgery: When the Rods Have Other Plans

A new multicenter look from the Pediatric Spine Study Group dives into what actually goes wrong in GGS.

Degenerative Scoliosis: When the Apex Talks, the Hip Listens

The apex drifts. The pelvis tilts. The hip absorbs the punishment. That’s the conclusion of this terrific new study.

When Height Stands Tall: A New Risk Factor for PJK

Height or weight, which is a bigger PJK risk factor? (not a trick question)

TOPS System: Posterior Facet Arthroplasty Outperforms TLIF

For decades, the surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis has lived in a philosophical tug-of-war.

Scoliosis, the Clock, and the Quality-of-Life Curve

When is the optimal moment to stop watching the scoliotic curve and operate?

Gabapentin After ACDF: Friend, Foe…or Frenemy?

Time to stop using gabapentin after ACDF?

Opioid Minimalism: When Less Really Is More

How many spine patients receive an opioid prescription and then never take a single pill? The answer may surprise you.

Fat Map Strikes Back: Best Infection Predictor in Lumbar Fusion

A new fat stat might finally give surgeons a clinically relevant measure for back pain patients.

ERAS: Everyone Loves the Idea…But Who’s Actually Doing It?

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) really works, per a new AOSpine study. Lower opioid use. Faster recovery. Better outcomes.

Dual Mobility vs. Jumbo Heads in Primary THA

Dual mobility hip or a jumbo head. Which provides better, long-term stability?

Humeral Shaft Fractures: When the Plate Beats the Brace

New study out of Finland, called FISH (yes, really) compared bracing to surgery for humeral shaft fracture. The endpoint? Cost.

Knee Rehab Goes Digital: Can Telerehabilitation Keep Up After TKA?

For decades, the postoperative pathway after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been pretty standard.

High Risk, High Times? Cannabis and Lumbar Fusion Outcomes

The question is no longer whether patients use cannabis — it’s what it means for their surgical outcomes.

Aspirin vs. Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin in Septic Knee Showdown

Revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is already a high-stakes endeavor.

What’s The Spondylotic Spine – Knee Replacement Connection?

When orthopedic surgeons hear ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a few things immediately come to mind…

Pediatric Deformity: IONM Alerts and the Power of Blood Pressure

In pediatric deformity surgery, intraoperative IONM is your spinal cord’s early warning system — part smoke alarm, part guardian angel.

Quadriceps Tendon Joins the Top Tier in ACL Graft Debate

Is it time to take a harder, longer look at the quadriceps tendon autograft? This study suggests that it is.

Vancomycin Powder in Spine Surgery: Magic Dust or More Laundry?

Pretty sobering data in this new, large-scale study of vancomycin powder in posterior spinal fusion cases.

CDR: When Motion Preservation Meets a Cloud of Smoke

Every once in a while, a familiar villain sneaks back into the operating room: cigarettes.

ChatGPT Goes to Clinic: Can It Make Patient Handouts Readable?

Which matters more? That new implant or making sure your patient actually understands the one you just put in?

The UKA “Don’t Panic” Study at 6 Years

The medial compartment is bone-on-bone, the ACL is pristine, alignment is reasonable — and then you peek laterally.

Revision Fusion: Why These Patients Keep Coming Back for Pain Meds

The literal front line of the most serious and important battles against post-op spine pain and opioid use is revision spine surgery.

Facet Arthroplasty vs TLIF in Lumbar Spondylolisthesis 2Y Results!

Lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis remains one of the most common — and hotly debated — pathologies in spine surgery.

Lumbar Disc Replacement: Still Spinning After Two Decades

Spine surgery has always had a bit of a philosophical split when it comes to DDD — On one side sits fusion — On the other sits lumbar TDA.

The TOPS Showdown in Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

Head-to-head, motion preserving TOPS System versus degenerative spondylolisthesis. 249 patients. randomized FDA trial.

The PEEK-on-Ceramic Disc That Refuses to Fuse

New prospective randomized multicenter cohort study put two-level cervical disc arthroplasty to the test. Result?

When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Reach for a Fusion Nail

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after TKA: the complication that humbles even the most seasoned arthroplasty surgeon.

Time to Ditch THA Minimal Movement Restrictions?

Do minimal movement restrictions following THA actually increase early dislocations?

Does Bone Quality Really Doom Your ACDF?

You scroll through the CT. You glance at the Hounsfield units (HU). You squint. “Hmm. That bone doesn’t look great…”

The Great Showdown: Vitamin D vs. Bisphosphonates in Spinal Fusion

How do you actually optimize bone biology around fusion — vitamin D vs bisphosphonates.

When the Synovial CRP Doesn’t Quite Deliver

In the ongoing war against periprosthetic joint infection, catching it early, using synovial c-reactive protein tests is standard of care.

The Cement Mantle vs a Distal Femoral Replacement

Once the domain of massive oncologic resections, distal femoral replacement (DFR) is now a go-to salvage move for complex non-oncologic disasters as well.

Cervical Deformity: Beautiful Construct…or a Future Failure?

Strong and practical new study out of the ISSG takes a hard look at cervical deformity surgery and in-construct sagittal angles.

Does Timing of Radiation and Surgery for Spinal Metastases Matter?

Radiotherapy before, after or not at all for spinal metastases?

Why Your Fusion Patients Should Be Logging Miles, Not X-Rays

What if one of the most powerful “adjuncts” to a beautifully executed ≥3-level lumbar fusion isn’t in the OR at all…but in the patient’s sneakers?

Femoral Fractures: Robots That Actually Pull Their Weight

Novel application of robotics to orthopedic surgery — fracture reduction.

Silk vs. Super Glue: A Dressing Showdown in TJA

Can you close your total joints without irritating the very skin you’re trying to protect?

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…Who’s That in My Mirror?

What if the most powerful driver of ASD surgical decision-making isn’t pain…it’s the mirror?

Can You Predict the Overachievers in OCD Surgery?

“Doc, how long will it take for my daughter’s OCD lesion to heal?”

When the Psoas Whispers: Sarcopenia and the Clock You Can’t See

Vertebroplasty patients with sarcopenia have >6x mortality rate of non-sarcopenia patients. Frailty matters.

Joint Infection: After Two-Stage Exchanges, What Happens?

This new peer-reviewed study delivers post two stage exchange answers for patients with periprosthetic joint infection.

When 4cm Is the Enemy: A Cervical Deformity Reality Check

More than 50% of the cervical deformity patients in this study failed to achieve their cervical saggital angle target (4cm).

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Is Amyloid the Real MVP in the Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is NOT just mechanical compression — it’s biologically active remodeling.

How Critical Shoulder Angle May Sabotage Your Cuff Repair

Sure, this is a rat study, but the biomechanics are solid. Turns out, that critical shoulder angle is, critical after all.

Is It Time to Sprinkle Some Biology Into Your Vertebroplasty?

While differences between using cement alone or cement plus DBM for vertebral compression fracture treatment are few and far between.

CTA vs MRI at C1: When Millimeters Matter

Clear warnings in this study of mixing MRI and CT for a single case. What’s the problem?

What Causes Adjacent Level Disease: Biomechanics or Biology?

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) remains one of the most reliable operations in spine surgery.

New, Effective, Simple Frailty Index Measure Unveiled

Frailty is the thing surgeons all sense during clinic — slow gait, multiple comorbidities, that “this feels riskier than it should” intuition…

A Cautionary Tale: When the Implants Eats the DRG

Rough, but necessary study — too often the cost of implants in revision surgery eats up the DRG.

Three Levels, Two Philosophies, One Neck

By the time you’re tackling three cervical levels, you’re no longer debating if surgery is needed — you’re debating how bold you want to be.

Who Is Still Carrying the Load After Rotator Cuff Tears?

This is a terrific rotator cuff cadaveric study which masterfully articulates what works and what doesn’t.

What Causes Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

Why does adolescent idiopathic scoliosis even exist?

The Postop Period: Or, How Many Times Can One Knee Text You?

Joint replacement may be “bundled,” but the work most definitely is not.

Why Breast Cancer Biology Belongs in the Spine OR

Surprising what the right test can do for a complicated metastatic spine surgery. St. Gallen’s classification.

Do Short Tibial Stems Really Save the Day?

Early aseptic loosening has been linked to native short tibial stem designs and morbid obesity.

YOLO, Cervical Myelopathy!

As this newly published, peer-reviewed study conclusively argues, AI is ready, capable and should take over initial MRI screening of adult DCM.

Sacral U-Type Fractures: When to Fix and When to Chill

Sacral U-type fracture fixation study, 12-year follow up. Check it out.

Is the Femoral Head Holding Its Breath After DDH Reduction?

Pediatric orthopedics just got a new tool, CEUS, which tracks femoral blood flow in real time.

The One-Year Money Pit (and Payoff) of Total Hip Arthroplasty

Want some bad/good news? Bad news: all those pre-op visits, injections, PT etc. are a money pit. Good news…?

Menopause, Mother Nature, and the Crushing Truth

Vertebral fractures in women are increasing in absolute numbers, driven by aging populations globally.

Pulling Back the Curtain on Proximal Junctional Kyphosis

Proximal junctional kyphosis has 7 causes? New study pulls back the curtain on PJK/F.

The Posterior Tension Band: Unicorn or Unsung Hero?

Is a functional posterior tension band in ankylosed spine fractures a unicorn?

Cefazolin and the R1 Side Chain

The room is ready…and then someone clears their throat: “Uh, the patient has a cephalosporin allergy.”

CMS’s New Patient Rating System Fails Smell Test

Is CMS setting the bar unrealistically high for one of our most successful operations?

The Crooked Joint Line That Straightened Itself (Eventually)

Reassuring new study tackles the gap between post-op radiographic images and actual patient satisfaction.

Can C2 Slope Be a Red Flag in Cervical Deformity Surgery?

Should C2 slope now trump level count when deciding how “short” is too short in cervical deformity surgery?

ACL Sex-Differences at the Cellular Level

At the cellular level, there are critical ACL sex differences which affect injury recovery.

The Sacrum Strikes Back: Why Sacral Slanting Matters

Sacral slanting is an interesting problem, as this study makes clear

One Injury, Many Playbooks?!

Spinal cord injury outcomes should not depend on which hospital you are wheeled into.

When Is Femoral Derotational Osteotomy the Superior Choice?

Orthopedic surgeons all love a good hip arthroscopy. Small portals, big wins, happy patients.

Sacrectomy: Where Nerve Roots Are Sacrificed, and Hope Plateaus

Because sacrectomies are so rare, there hasn’t been much peer review data about longer term outcomes — until now.

Can Pyrocarbon Save Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty?

This new study delivers evidence that, yes, the glenoid seems to prefer carbon over chrome.

A 17.5-Year Bilateral Knee Cage Match (and It Ends in a Draw)

Each patient had BOTH polymers implanted! One per knee. The verdict? You’ll be surprised.

Epigenetic Age Crashes the Adult Spinal Deformity Party

Patient is, chronologically, 68. Functionally…well, let’s just say their tissues did not get the memo.

The Pill, the Hip, and the Labrum Walk Into a Clinic…

Orthopedic surgeons may be tempted to blame hip pain on sports, bony morphology, or that one CrossFit phase everyone pretends never happened.

LEIS: Mostly Smooth Sailing…But Mind the Icebergs

What are the actual validated complication risks of lumbar epidural steroid injections?

Why Are We Still Forgetting Bone Health After Spine Fractures?

Are you actually treating the bone disease that caused the fracture in the first place?

Modern Baseball: Throwing Gas and Blowing Out Elbows

Every orthopedic surgeon who treats throwing athletes has heard it before: “Doc, I just added 2 mph to my fastball.”

When the Acetabulum Needs a Tailored Suit

Custom-made acetabular implant (CMAI) — the Savile Row suit of the hip world…worth every millimeter?

Temporary Occiput–C2 Fixation for Unstable Atlas Fractures

Could there be an alternative to the halo vest?

When the Cuff Is Gone but the Shoulder Isn’t

Posterosuperior irreparable rotator cuff tears are the shoulder equivalent of showing up to trauma call and realizing anesthesia is short-staffed…

Cracking the SRS-22r Code in Moderate-to-Severe Spinal Deformity

Can PROM utility for deformity cases improve?

A Trauma OR That Lets Hand Surgeons Sleep at Night

Could a simple timing change, improve surgeon wellness and cut both costs and complications?

Predicting Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis with Machine Learning

Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is the clinical equivalent of discovering that the reason your patient can’t walk is…extra epidural fat quietly staging a coup.

Knee PJIs: Same Bugs, New Tricks?

How about some good PJI news? 24-year study.

The Ultimate Compliment: The Forgotten Spine Surgery

Is “forgottenness” the new gold standard for cervical disc replacement, and are you finally ready to admit Neck Disability Index alone isn’t enough?

How Femoral Tracker Placement Can Quietly Tension Your Robotic TKA

Great new JBJS study concludes that the femoral tracker pulls more than its fair share of the weight.

Could Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Be Its Own Sagittal Phenotype?

Lumbar spine stenosis isn’t just an aging spine — it’s its own distinct phenotype.

Posterior Labral Repair: Shoulder Instability’s Quiet Overachiever

Posterior shoulder instability doesn’t get the same spotlight as its anterior cousin.

How Advanced Practice Providers Are Quietly Redefining Spine Care

How big is the Advanced Practice Provider (APP) footprint in spine care really — and is the system paying them (or us) fairly for it?

Bankart vs Latarjet in Martial Artists: Defining ‘Successful’

For martial arts athletes and weekend warriors, shoulders take a literal beating.

Scope or Screws? The Cervical Myelopathy Cost-Pain Trade-Off

New retrospective study digs up some interesting insights between laminoplasty or laminectomy plus fusion for cervical myelopathy.

Statins in the Shoulder: Friend, Foe, or Silent Healing Partner?

This rotator cuff study will trigger debate — despite the outcomes being so clear.

Loeys-Dietz: When Connective Tissue Keeps You on Your Toes

Loeys-Dietz syndrome may be rare, but it punches well above its weight.

Sugaya III: The Calm Before the Cuff Storm

Welcome to the unsettling world of delayed rotator cuff re-tears, reminding you that the rotator cuff has a long memory…

Can AI Help You Dodge the Post-Op Infection Bullet?

Can AI help us predict who’s about to get an SSI — before the incision is even made?

Taming the Microglial Mayhem After Spinal Cord Injury

Spine trauma. Decompress, stabilize, fuse, then argue endlessly about timing.

Tennis Elbow Showdown: Scope vs Scalpel — And the Winner Is?

In this study lateral epicondylitis study everyone came out a winner. Scope or scalpel. You win either way.

The Great Carpal Tunnel Showdown: Scalpel or Syringe?

To cut or not to cut, that is the carpal tunnel question today.

Heparin, Hematomas, and the Lumbar Fusion Anxiety Spiral

Really terrific study. And spoiler alert, it shows that heparin may simply not matter for routine 1–3 level lumbar fusions.

Dual Mobility, Double Trouble? Or Much Ado About (Almost) Nothing

Lurking behind the excitement is a familiar specter: “Are you quietly bathing your patients in cobalt and chromium?”

Prehab the Labs: When Albumin Outperforms Your Crystal Ball

Before you blame the fracture, the fixation, or the follow-up…check the labs.

Is Arthroscopy Necessary for Distal Radius Fracture Fixation?

No better reduction, no better function (or safety outcomes), but costs more…so why “scope” wrist fractures?

10-Year Grade I Degenerative Spondy Outcomes

Standalone bilateral decompression for Grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) has long lived in the shadow of fusion.

Can Social Function Improve After Big Deformity Surgery?

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) doesn’t just bend spines — it bends lives.

The Case for a Dryer Spine: TXA Enters the Lumbar Fusion Chat

A new study put tranexamic acid to a degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis series in the elderly test and found…

Burst Fractures Without Neuro Deficit: A Reality Check

Thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurologic deficit are the orthopedic equivalent of a loaded question.

How Much IV Fluid Is Right for Your Elderly Spine Patient?

This research tackled a deceptively simple but clinically loaded question: does how much fluid to give older patients during spine?

Reading the Bones Before They Give Up the Screw

This study reminds you of a simpler truth: bone quality still rules the fusion kingdom.

PEEDS: Is 60 the New 40 for Multilevel Deformity Surgery?

Five level or greater spine deformity surgery in 60- to 83-year-old patients? That’s a gut check.

The New, No-Nonsense Definition of Postoperative Spine Infection

Postoperative spine infection : the dreaded complication that seems to come with a variety of definitions—is it redness? drainage? or that one culture result you’re not quite sure you trust?

Peptide Power: Can P-15 Make TLIFs Fuse Faster?

Local autograft has been the dependable old workhorse, but it hasn’t exactly been winning any speed races lately — BMP2 delivers more horsepower if you need it.

Heparin After Lumbar Fusion: Friend, Foe, or Just…There?

Does prophylactic subcutaneous heparin after lumbar fusion actually help — or hurt?

Can a Little Gel After Discectomy Make Good Surgery Even Better?

The nerve root is decompressed and looking happier already. But a great discectomy does not equal guaranteed pain relief.

Zaps, Signals, and Stenosis

MRI maps physical change but can’t distinguish which nerves are firing and how much. Can electrophysiology fill in the diagnostic gaps?

Unsupervised Learning Meets the World’s Most Supervised Problem

Low back pain — everyone has it — everyone’s MRI is “abnormal” — and everyone swears their pain is different.

Metformin: The Accidental Multimodal Analgesic?

Metformin, not only cuts post op opioid use in diabetic spine fusion patients, but it also appears to improve their outcomes.

Growing Pains, Pelvic Clues, and the Quest for Skeletal Truth

If managing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) sometimes feels like playing detective, then skeletal maturity is your most elusive suspect.

Robots and Reimbursement: The Cost War in AIS Surgery

For years, posterior spinal fusion in idiopathic scoliosis has featured a familiar intraoperative showdown: Freehand, Navigation, or Robotic-assisted navigation.

Location, Location: Why Your ACDF Graft’s Real Estate Matters

ONE millimeter of free (non-graft) posterior space CUTS the odds of pseudarthrosis.

Can We Fix Odontoid Fractures Without a Muscle Fight?

Is there a better way to fix odontoid fractures?

Saving Fusion Levels in Lenke 1/2 AR Curves

You’re staring at the distal lumbar spine, cursor hovering between vertebrae, asking the AIS (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) question: “Do I really need to go that low?”

Toradol After Fusion: Friend, Foe, or Frenemy of Bone Healing?

What unintended consequences come with Toradol after fusion?

GLP-1 Agonists and the Return of the First Flatulence

To fart, or not to fart, that is the question — the post-op bowels woke up and spoke up.

Despite Earlier Losses, NuVasive Revives Fight Against Pat Miles

In a triumph of hope over experience, someone at Globus Medical (nee NuVasive), is once again pressing its case against Alphatec and Patrick Miles.

No More Manual Lumbar Spine Segmentation?

Researchers have introduced Open Lumbar Spine Image Analysis (OLSIA), a 3D Slicer extension designed to take the monotony out of…

Got Iron? Why Your Lumbar Fusion Patients Might Thank You Later

If you needed another reason to check pre-op labs beyond the obligatory hemoglobin squint, here’s the study.

Seven Years on the Treadmill: A Glimpse Into ASLS Outcomes

Need proof that spine surgery can turn your patients into more resilient versions of themselves — at least on a treadmill — here’s the study for you.

Home Care After Lumbar Fusion: Friend or Foe?

If you’ve spent any time rounding on post–lumbar fusion patients, you’ve probably noticed a couple of things…

The Twelfth Rib: Unexpected Crystal Ball of Lumbar Radiculopathy?

Could the 12th rib be causing neurological mischief?

A Methodological Reality Check for the Cervical Spine Crowd

Love and hate this study. Why? It shows that too many studies using NDI and MCID, screw them up. That’s a problem.

Anterior Column Reconstruction in Spinal TB: Mandatory or Not?

If spinal TB screws hold, is ACR necessary?

Are Your School Scoliosis Screenings Still Analog?

Digital vs manual adolescent scoliosis screening. This 27,532-patient study delivers some very valuable statistics.

Finding Right Amount of Dimensionality for Catching Cancer Early

Time to give malignant vertebral fracture diagnosis to the machine?

When Your MRI Knows More About Disc Degeneration Than You Do

Intervertebral disc degeneration remains one of the most stubbornly subjective diagnoses in spine care.

Posterior Cervical Fusion: When the Kidneys Crash the Party

Patients on dialysis introduce a series of stressors that every member of the surgical team need to plan for.

Frequency and Effect of Post-Op Roussouly Shape-Shifting

Really interesting study, using data from the Adult Spinal Deformity database.

When Your Pre-Op Med List Predicts More Than Your Fusion Screws

Could antidepressants be derailing your spine surgery outcomes?

Patient–Surgeon Expectation Mismatch in Cervical Spine Surgery

Younger patients with no surgery experience have no clue and the data reveals that and surgeons, ALSO, miss the boat!

Lumbar Spondylolisthesis Challenge: ALIF vs P/TLIF

In other words: choose your approach (ALIF or P/TLIF), choose your adventure.

Spine Surgeons at the Front: 125 Years of Battlefield Medicine

Ever wondered what happens when you mix 20th Century war stories, modern surgical staffing spreadsheets, and the looming specter of future large-scale combat?

The Road Map, With Mile Markers, to ACDF Post-Op Recovery

This new Spine Journal study really delivers precise metrics about each ACDF patients post op recovery experience.

A Reality Check on Racial Disparities in Spine Care

Have you ever wondered whether degenerative lumbar discs suffer equally across America

Compression Wars: Is Double Gear Really Better?

Compression therapy in spinal metastasis surgery doesn’t have to be “one size fits all.”

The VTE Showdown Nobody Asked For

Yes, friends — this is the VTE cage match between ACDF and PCDF you didn’t know you needed.

ACDF 2060: The Cervical Spine Sequel No One Saw Coming

Have you’ve ever wondered what your surgical schedule might look like in 2060 (assuming your spirit animal is Dr. James “I’ll Retire When I’m Dead” Jones),

How S2AI Screws Reveal the Hip Joint’s Secret Life

Pelvic incidence (PI): the “immutable,” “unchangeable,” “etched-in-bone” parameter surgeons all learned to revere in training…

P-15 Peptide in TLIF: What You Should Know

If early fusion is your love language, P-15L might just be your new OR romance.

Optimal Surgical Composite Outcome in Metastatic Spine Disease

Grab your loupes and your favorite coffee mug — it is time to head into the world of metastatic spine disease.

The Many Ways Obesity Jacks Up Costs

New study: How high is the obesity tariff for lumbar decompression costs?

The Great Cervical MISS-Off: Tubular vs Uniportal vs Biportal

3-way MIS spine cage match: Tubular v Uniportal v Biportal — who wins?

A Surprising Reason Low Back Pain Keeps You Up at Night

A new, massive study argues that lack of sleep is less due to back pain, than it is functionality.

Closed-Loop, Wide Awake, and Not Your Grandpa’s Pain Stim

New data on closed loop spinal stim. Check it out.

Clocking In After a Microdiscectomy: Who’s Back on the Job?

When will MOST microdiscectomy patients get back to work?

Data Dive Into Intraoperative Monitoring: Curious Findings

Recently published national analysis of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) use during cervical spine surgery for degenerative cervical.

Coronal Plane Correction Gets a Glow-Up With Patient-Specific Rods

The trend toward patient-specific implants just got another big boost with this study of Medtronic’s UNiD patient-specific rods.

Your Guide to Delirium Prediction Tools That (Mostly) Work

Is post-op patient delirium — rare but rough — predictable?

The Connection Between Cholesterol Levels and Fusion Rates

Does your patient’s cholesterol level secretly dictate whether their ALIF will heal…or ghost you?

Spondylodiscitis in IVDU: Same Bugs, Wildly Different Outcomes

If you treat spondylodiscitis, an intravenous drug using patient isn’t a “more aggressive infection” problem.

Fine vs. Sclerotic Trabecula: Understanding Your Post-PLIF CT

How troubling is sclerotic trabecular bone remodeling post-op?

Vapes, Pouches, and Pseudarthrosis

Nicotine by gum, vape, or pouch absolutely torpedoes spine fusion outcomes. Sorry, but the data is scary.

Acupuncture, Medicare, and the Magic Needles

You will love this study. Acupuncture, statistically significantly better pain relief for chronic back pain.

Reoperation Roulette: CDA vs ACDF

Head-to-Head: CDA vs ACDF; 6,300 patients: Who wins?

A Multicenter Cage Match for Lumbar Facet Pain Relief

Facet pain relief: heat it, freeze it, or scope it — which works best?

The Unexpected Mental Health Burden of Lumbar Fusion

Lumbar fusion may reconstruct the spine beautifully, but the mind can quietly destabilize in the background.

Post-Op Barriers After Lumbar Decompression

What five basic post-op barriers prevent meaningful lumbar decompression improvement?

When Complications Collide With Coding

An AO generated score that HELPS with DRG coding!!

Is It Really That Unstable? A Fresh Look at SISS

Does SISS actually predict who’s going to crumble radiographically or crash functionally?

Scoliosis Screenings: Heroic Prevention or Expensive Overreach?

If you were a kid in the ‘90s, you probably remember that awkward “bend over and touch your toes” moment in gym class.

The OSCO-M: Because One Outcome Just Isn’t Enough

Have you seen AO’s NEW consensus outcome metric for spinal tumor surgery?

The Great Scoliosis Squeeze: A Game of Push, Pull, and Shrink

Have you ever hit your kyphotic ceiling in an AIS Case?

Is Timing Everything? Intrathecal Morphine in AIS Surgery

For AIS surgery, is it really morphine o’clock somewhere?

A 15-Year Odyssey in O-Arm–Guided Precision

5,478 pedicle screw insertions, 15 years, 98.63% accuracy rate. Really?

Why Your Patient’s Dinner Plate Might Predict Their Post-Op Course

If your metastatic spine patient’s albumin is low, should you reach for the scalpel — or head to the kitchen first?

Window Shopping for Cages: When Bigger Isn’t Better in ACDF

In ACDF, do bigger cage windows mean bigger problems?

“PT or Not PT?” — That Is the (Neck-Breaking) Question

Have you ever sent your ACDF patient off with a “follow up in six weeks” and a vague suggestion to “maybe start some PT?”

Can ERP Outsmart Non-Modifiable Risk Factors?

Could Enhanced Recovery Pathway fix the unfixable in spine surgery?

Six Weeks to Glory (or Plateau): The Recovery of TELD Patients

Have you ever had a patient ask, “Doc, when will I feel better?” after a transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy.

A Billion-Dollar Curve: Hospital Care for Kids With Spine Disease

Did pediatric neuromuscular scoliosis cases just jump 30x in 13 years? Seriously?

What You DON’T Know About Opioid Use After Spine Fractures

In the age of multimodal analgesia and ERAS protocols, is a 90-day opioid still the badge of honor — or the red flag?

The Great PI–LL Overcorrection Debate Just Got a Reality Check

Nothing gets a spine surgeon’s pulse racing like a perfectly aligned lumbar lordosis.

Stryker Beats Expectations for Third Quarter 2025

Stryker reports sales for Q3 up 10.25%, roughly double the industry growth rate.

Romosozumab: The Pedicle Screw’s New Best Friend?

If you’ve ever cursed at a pedicle screw wobbling in osteoporotic bone, this one’s for you.

How a Tiny Laminectomy Can Protect Against C5 Palsy

If you’ve ever stared at a C5 palsy after a “perfect” cervical decompression and wondered, “Why, spine gods, why?”

ACDF vs. Myelomalacia: The Comeback Story No One Expected

Does preoperative myelomalacia make ACDF outcomes worse? The short answer: Nope.

Bifocal Surgery for Malignant Spinal Lesions Comes With a Price

If one spine operation feels like running a marathon, imagine doing two at once.

When microRNAs Attack: miR-93-5p Takes the Fall

Have you ever stared at a Pfirrmann grade 5 disc and wondered what molecular mischief was happening behind the scenes?

Frailty Face-Off: RAI vs. mFI-5 in Occipitocervical Fusion

If you’ve ever stared down a frail octogenarian on your pre-op list for an occipitocervical fusion (OCF) and thought, “How risky is risky, really?”

When the Cord Doesn’t Fit the Canal After CDR

Spinal cord looking a bit too snug in that cervical canal — like trying to squeeze into your fellowship suit after a pandemic of takeout and Zoom calls?

Battle of the VBQs: Can MRI Predict Fusion Success?

You stare at that pre-op MRI, trying to divine whether this patient’s vertebrae will hold your beautifully placed screws — or crumble like an overbaked cookie.

The MITPA Corpectomy: When One Pedicle Is All You Need

“Corpectomy” and “minimally invasive” don’t often appear in the same sentence — at least, not without a raised eyebrow or two.

Angles and Attitude: Shoulder Balance After AIS Surgery

X-rays look gorgeous, and the family is thrilled — until someone notices the shoulder tilt.

What Surgeon Demographics Reveal About L4-5 DLS Preferences

Picture this: you’re staring at yet another MRI of an L4-5 Grade I spondylolisthesis. To fuse or not to fuse?

Obesity – When BMI Plays Tricks on Bones

“Doc, maybe my extra padding will protect me if I fall!” But does it really?

Unraveling Racial and Ethnic Disparities After Spine Surgery

Does race or ethnicity predict who bounces back after spine surgery…and who faces more bumps along the recovery road

GLP-1s and the Surprising Side of Spine Surgery

If you’ve been anywhere near an OR lounge, you’ve probably heard more talk about Ozempic face than about sagittal balance lately.

¡Habla PROST!

If you’ve ever tried to compare patient-reported outcomes from Buenos Aires to Barcelona — or from Bogotá to Boston — you’ve probably hit the same wall all doctors have: language and culture.

Predicting Failure in Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures are like that stubborn patient who swears they’ll be fine with bed rest and calcium…until they’re back…

Applying Traditional Chinese Medicine to Spinal Injury

Spinal cord injuries (SCI), as most spine surgeons know, are less about the first hit and more about the aftershocks.

Clumsy Hands, Confused Cords and DCM Surgery

Are we diagnosing disease…or just recognizing the signs we personally like best?

Boiled Down to the Absolute Essentials: What Really Saves Spines?

What spine surgeons in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) really need is a decent neck brace and some ER docs who know when not to roll the patient.

AR-Guided Pedicle Screws Hit the Mark With Just 2D-3D Registration

Picture this: You’re standing in the OR, scrubbed in, wearing a headset that doesn’t just look futuristic — it is futuristic.

Slope, Shear, and PJK – Oh My!

Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is the uninvited guest who shows up in too many adult spinal deformity surgeries.

The 6.5 mm Rule Every Spine Surgeon Should Know

Two kinds of patients can keep you up at night: ones who sneezed too hard and got a screw pullout—and those who come back at 3 months with a broken upper instrumented vertebra.

Coagulopathy and the Emergency Decompression Drama

If you’re rushing to decompress a lumbar spine and your patient’s INR (Internal Normalization Ratio — the time it takes for blood to clot) is singing soprano.

Biomarkers and Myelopathy: Is It All in Your Head…or Your CSF?

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM): It’s the sneaky spinal saboteur surgeons all know too well.

The Post-Op Glow-Up After Long Fusion to the Ilium

Correcting adult spinal deformity (ASD) is no small feat — especially when it involves a long fusion to the ilium.

The Curious Case of Degenerative Dropped Head Syndrome

A patient walks in, head hung low — not out of shame, but because their cervical extensors have called it quits.

A Slick ChatGPT Trick to Improve Patient Communications

Latin-laced explanation of lumbar radiculopathy may come tripping off the tongue but land like a lead balloon on the patient. “Readability” isn’t one-size-fits-all.

The Mystery Meat: What Paraspinal Sarcopenia Tells Us About DLSS

What happens when the spine gets old, stiff, and a little saggy?

Cracking the Code of Substantial Clinical Benefit in PROMIS Scores

What change in PROMIS PI and PF scores means the patient walks out thinking, “That was totally worth it”?

Methadone in the OR: Hero, Hype, or Just Another Opioid?

Spine fusion surgeries — because what could be more fun than operating near the spinal cord and giving patients the gift of lumbar rigidity?

Wearable Sensors Bring New Precision to CSM Care

Tired of binary bedside tests? There’s a new gadget in town — and it’s wearable.

The Splint Rod Surprise: When “Stiffer” Isn’t Always “Stronger” in Cervicothoracic Constructs

Posterior fixation at the cervicothoracic junction where the graceful mobility of the cervical spine meets the stubborn rigidity of the thoracic…

Calculating the Future of Cancer-Specific Survival

Ever stared down a case of spinal or pelvic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (SP-DLBCL) and thought, “I could surely use a validated crystal ball right about now”?

One and Done? The 360° Showdown for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures

Single-stage 360° stabilization vs belt-and-suspenders two-stage smack down. Who wins?

Up in Smoke: The Grim Reality of Lighting Up Before Spine Fusion

What’s the biggest spine fusion buzzkill? A broken rod, infection, or a pack of Marlboros?

The Surprising Role of Vitamin D in Single-Level Fusion Outcomes

If your pre-op checklist doesn’t include a peek at 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, it might be time for a rethink.

Adolescent Scoliosis: Early to Brace, Early to Straighten?

Early nighttime bracing for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) — a concept as dreamy as it sounds.

Does the Gold Standard in Sagittal Alignment Change as We Age?

Ever wonder what “normal” really looks like from the cranium to the calcaneus?

Hip First, Spine Later? What Are the Long-Term Effects?

Hip-spine syndrome: the diagnostic Bermuda Triangle of the orthopedic and spine world.

Spine Wars: When Infection Hits Back

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty — surgeon’s go-to, minimally invasive spine-saving miracles…

A Radiographic Rollercoaster Through RCTs

Why is there no universal definition of what a “successful” spinal fusion looks like on imaging?

Malpractice Mayhem and the Courtroom Dance

Spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, orthopedic comrades — ever feel like the OR is intense?

Spinal Support: Muscle Mayhem Strikes Again

It’s a common scenario: the patient who walks into clinic upright and proud, but 10 minutes later is sagging forward like a melting snowman.

Cracking the Code of Rod Fracture in ASD Surgery

Rod fracture: the bane of beautiful reconstructions and the uninvited guest in every spine surgeon’s nightmare.

The Curious Case of the Unhappy Post-Op Lumbar Patient

So why is your patient looking at you like you just ruined their vacation?

Why Gen Z Might Need a Spine Care Pack by Age 30

Yes, your next wave of patients may not be retirees in tennis shoes but TikTok dancers and e-sports warriors.

Brainwaves on a Tilt: When Posture Becomes a Brain Thing

When the spine wobbles, does the brain scramble?

Beam Me Up, Robot: MRI-Guided Robots in the Thoracic Spine

Spine surgeons, rejoice — your robot overlords are now MRI-compatible.

Sleepy Spines: Does Obstructive Sleep Apnea Complicate ACDF Outcomes?

Is obstructive sleep apnea an ACDF risk-factor or a snoozy head-fake?

Time-resolved CE-MRA Steps Up Its Game!

Time-resolved contrast-enhanced MR angiography; better, cheaper, faster than digital subtraction angiography?

Rett vs. CP in the OR: A Tale of Two Spines

Two tiny patients, one with Rett’s, one with cerebral palsy. Surgically, how are they alike, how are they not?

Cervical Disc Arthroplasty: A Recruitment Rumble in the Spine Arena

When it comes to CDA, patient selection might just be the most underrated surgical tool in your kit.

Hip, Knee, Spine, Repeat? A Cautionary Tale in Oswestry Scores

Does having a bionic hip or knee (or both!) ruin the magic of your beautifully decompressed and fused lumbar spine?

OTA Annual Meeting Dives Into Trauma’s Toughest Calls

OTA Annual Meeting lands in Phoenix (Oct. 15–18), promising four days of high-stakes debate, surgical pearls, and maybe even a few career-saving tips.

Broken, But Still on the Clock: A Danish Deep Dive Into Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures

“Grandma broke her back” — but what if she’s still going to work the next morning?

A Look at What Works (and What Doesn’t) in Training the Next Generation

Spine surgeons spend their careers measuring deformity angles, pedicle screw trajectories, blood loss, length of stay, and…each other.

56,736 Patient Study Finds Big ACDF Outpatient Cost Disparities

New study in Spine of 56,736 outpatient ACDF cases outcomes were stable nationwide, the price tags varied wildly by region.

10-Year, 2,354 Patient Study Re-Defines Atlantoaxial Dislocation

Atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) is not your average spinal issue.

Microdiscectomy Déjà Vu: Who’s Coming Back to the OR (and Who’s Getting Fused)?

Ever wonder which of your microdiscectomy patients might be back for round two…or worse, a fusion?

Machine Learning Meets Muscle: Predicting Cage Subsidence After PLIF Like a Pro

Want a ridiculously good predictor (92% accuracy) of cage subsidence? Check out this new study.

852 Spine Surgeries, 24 Months, 10 Institutions, 1 Crystal Ball

Surgical intervention for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is like opening night at the theater…

Unfused but Not Unaffected: The AIS Surgery Domino Effect

In the world of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) surgery, the mantra has always been: fuse what’s needed, spare what you can.

ASES 2025: Where Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Go Big in San Diego

Pack your surfboard, polish your glenoid reamers, and block your clinic schedule for the ASES 2025 Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Skip the Flip? Prone vs Lateral. Convenience vs Outcomes?

When it comes to spine surgery, it seems even gravity has an opinion.

Hollywood Meets the OR: CNS Los Angeles Annual Meeting

When spine surgeons gather in Los Angeles, you expect cutting-edge neurosurgery, not Hollywood red carpets.

What is Spine Sagittal Balance: It’s All in Your Head?

When spine surgeons talk about spinal sagittal imbalance (SSI), they’re often zeroing in on the mechanics…

Two Years, Seven Screws and What Happens Next?

If you’ve ever wondered what happens to your adult spinal deformity (ASD) patient after you sign off on their six-month follow-up?

From Mayo to Main Street: Dr. Clayton Wing Comes Home to Athens

Dr. Clayton W. Wing is returning home to Athens, Georgia, to join Athens Orthopedic Clinic.

ASSH 2025: Empowerment, Evidence, and a Dash of Renaissance Art

The American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) is celebrating its 80th annual meeting in style.

Getting PGY5 Ortho Surgeons Fully, Brilliantly Launched

Think back to your post-grad year 5 (PGY5). You were staring down the boards…

Women in Medicine Summit Brings the Heat to Chicago

September 18–20, the Women in Medicine Summit is promising something different.

SMISS Annual Forum 2025: Betting Big on the Future of MISS

Pack your loupes and your lucky dice — because the SMISS is rolling into Las Vegas this October 2–4, 2025.

Tough Quarter for Pacira BioSciences

Pacira’s Q2 was less about results and more about promises.

Zimmer Biomet Delivers Solid Q2 – All Eyes on Robotics and Monogram

Zimmer Biomet’s quarter ending June 30, 2025 beat expectations for revenue but not EPS.

Globus Piles on Sales and Cash Flow Growth

Globus Medical’s second quarter beat expectations for revenue, profit margin, cash flow and EPS.

Orthofix Beats Expectations for Q2 2025

Orthofix’ second quarter beat expectations for both revenue and EPS.

Integra Life Q2: Sales Flat, Losses Titanic, Master Plan Marches On

Integra’s revenue came in stronger than analysts expected, and the EPS was slightly higher than predicted.

CONMED Exceeds Revenue Expectations but EPS Lags

CONMED’s 2Q25 numbers are in, and the picture is a mix of solid topline growth, orthopedic momentum, and some capital-market headwinds.

Q2: Stryker Projects Power, Mako’s Momentum, ASCs

Stryker isn’t just reporting strong numbers—they’re projecting power—2Q25 earnings are here.

Alphatec Breaks Spine Market Share Speed Barrier

It’s time to stop casually watching Alphatec Holdings, Inc. and start paying attention—they’re not just growing, they’re accelerating.

Viva Las Vegas (Pain-Free, Hopefully): PAINWeek 2025

Pack your loupes, your lidocaine, and maybe your poker face—PAINWeek 2025 September 2–5—head to Las Vegas.

ACL Showdown: Can the BEAR Implant Take on the Gold Standard?

ACL surgery has been in a pretty committed relationship with autografts for decades now.

Highridge Bets Big on Motion: activL® Disc Lands in December

Highridge is stacking its motion preservation portfolio like a surgeon lining up titanium cages. Latest addition is Aesculap’s activL. Details here.

Where’s the Bleeding Edge of Regenerative Medicine? TOBI!!

Where’s the bleeding edge of regenerative medicine? It’s in Vegas, at Caesars, on August 21-23. TOBI!! Be there!.

Bring Your Tough Cases Here: AOFAS’s Annual Meeting

If foot and ankle is your jam, then lace up your oxfords and head south—to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Annual Meeting in Savannah, Georgia, from September 10–13, 2025. Here’s what happening.

The ‘Joint Revolution’ in Boston: Inside the 18th Cartilage Congress

This fall, brace yourself—not just for New England foliage, but for a cartilage coup. It’s the 18th Cartilage and Joint Regeneration Congress. It’s a Joint Revolution. We have the details and puns, here.

Charlotte Goes Curvy: SRS’s 60th Annual Meeting

Charlotte goes curvy on September 16th as the host of the 60th annual Scoliosis Research Society’s meeting—a high powered gathering and must attend. Here are details.

Orthopedic Cancer Mortality on the Rise in Men

Bone cancers on the rise in men, not women. That’s one of the interesting factoids from the latest cancer incidence report from the National Cancer Institute. Check it out.

AOSSM Annual Meeting in 30 Days in Nashville

AOSSM is one of our all-time favorite meetings. Great energy. In many ways, the future of ALL orthopedics starts at AOSSM. That’s right. Check it out.

The Current and Future Direction of Obesity Treatment

1 billion people are obese! Let that sink in. Genetics account for 70%, psychological factors 50%. GLP-1 and orforglipron work, but there are issues. Here’s the latest.

Orthofix Reports Larger Than Expected Loss Per Share

Well, that was an ugly quarter, losing about $50 million on $193 million in sales. What did management say? EBITDA. And spine needs maximized. We have the gist. Here it is.

Despite Setbacks IART Still Feeling Confident About Sales

Integra is still plowing through its now multi-year supply and logistics issues. Despite that, sales growth was decent although earnings sucked. Tariff issues don’t help at all.

Bioventus’ Cut Losses 46%, Organic Sales Up 5%

Yes, sales were down 4.3% in BVS’s 1st quarter of 2025, but overall losses were cut in half. Still lots of moving parts, but they seem to be moving in a positive direction.

Pacira BioSciences’s First Quarter 2025 Misses Estimates

Yes, PCRX’s Q1 was not pretty, miserable 1% sales growth rate and collapse of operating profit from last year’s Q1. But, hey, strategically, PCRX has the competition surrounded.

Globus Medical’s Q1:2025 Op Profit Soars

Globus Medical seems to be reverting to form, reporting a big jump in operating profit and profit margin for Q1, 2025. Here are the details.

Sport Medicine’s Annual Meeting: Atlanta May 27

Book those flights ASAP. Sports Medicine’s annual meeting – ACSM – starts on May 27th in Atlanta. Be there or be square.

SI-BONE: Q1 Sales +25%, Loses $7.5 million

The headline for SI-BONE’s 2025 Q1 report is 25% higher sales. But losses were $7.5 million, which is down 38% from last year. In today’s system, it’s actually hard to earn profits when sales grow this fast.

Scooping Up Share: ATEC Q1 Sales + 22%

For the 5th year in a row, ATEC appears poised to be leading market share gainer. For Q1, sales rose 22%, about 4x industry growth rates. Profits, however, are still elusive.

SYK Juggles Sales and Profits for Q1 2025

Stryker Corporation’s opening quarter of 2025 was, to paraphrase one Wall Street analysts, a “top, middle and bottom beat” meaning better than expected sales, op profits and EBITDA.

Strong Profit Growth Highlights ZBH’s Q1 2025

10% organic profit growth is significant and highlighted ZBH’s Q1 2025 report. That’s the sign of improved operating efficiencies. The ZBH engine is running well. Good start for the year.

CNMD Wrestles Supply Chains in Q1 2025

CONMED tried to wrestle supply chain issues into submission for Q1. Made progress, but, as CEO Beyer said, “We have more work to do.” Noteworthy were high adjusted profits.

Rich Mueller Is Life Spine’s New CEO

Rich Mueller, formerly with AcroMed, Theken and NuVasive, is Life Spine’s new President and CEO. Great news for the future of microinvasive spine surgery. Check it out!

Great Sessions in AI and More at AOA, June 2nd

Where else will you find sessions devoted to AI Pros AND Cons, the business of surgery, and so many more great topics for orthopedic surgeons at all stages in their career? June 2nd. Minneapolis. Be there!!

SI-BONE’s Sales Accelerated in final 2024 Quarter

SI-BONE, Inc. reported $48 million in sales and an operating loss of $4.5 million for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. The full year 2024 revenue, which was in line with Wall Street’s expectations, was $167.2 million. SI-BONE’s management, however, brought more down to the bottom line than Wall Street expected for 2024. SI-BONE Reports […]

Recapping ATEC’s 2024 Record Sales and Earnings Performance

Alphatec Holdings reported $177 million in sales and an operating loss of $33 million in the 4Q2024.

Integra Reports 11% Sales Increase to End 2024

Alphatec Holdings reported $177 million in sales and an operating loss of $33 million in the 4Q2024.

Pacira Just Misses Meeting Wall Street’s 2024 Expectations

Pacira BioSciences just missed Wall Street’s expectations while meeting company guidance.

Orthofix Swings and Misses 2024 – 2025 Looks Better

Orthofix reported full-year net sales of $799.5 million for year-end December 31, 2024.

Bioventus Blows Through 2024 Expectations

Bioventus shocked the world with significantly better-than-expected sales and profits for the Q4 and full year 2024.

ISASS Celebrates 25 Years in April

ISASS is reflecting back at its beginnings as well as its future as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Globus Medical Handily Beats 2024 Sales Estimates

Globus Medical, Inc. reported $657,293 million in sales and $60,275 million in operating profit for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, which was above both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

AAHKS Spring Meeting Presents Leading Experts of Arthroplasty

Each spring the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) offers arthroplasty surgeons a more intimate meeting to get their most burning questions answered by world class experts. This year’s spring meeting will be held May 1-3, 2025, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Jonathan Vigdorchik, M.D., program chair and hip and knee surgeon with the Hospital […]

ConMed DOUBLES 2024 EPS, Tariff’s Loom for 2025

ConMed beat Wall Street’s EPS estimates for 2024 and doubled reported EPS from $2.04 in 2023 to $4.25 for 2024.

ZBH Narrowly Beats Q4 Expectations

Zimmer Biomet reported 4Q24 just above Wall Street’s expectations and met management’s guidance.

Stryker’s Q4 Sales Growth Leads Industry

Stryker reported $6.4 billion in sales and $22,595 million in operating profit for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, beating both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

Game Changing Innovation at 2025 Sports Med Meeting

Innovation is the name of the game at this year’s American Medical Society for Sports Medicine in Kansas City.

Choose Your Adventures at AAOS’s March Annual Meeting

Time to register/plan your adventure at the #1 orthopedic/spine surgeons/affiliated care givers meeting—AAOS.

Centinel Spine’s Incredible 2024 Sales Report

Centinel Spine’s prodisc Total Disc Replacement set new records in 2024.

Top Global Spine Surgeons Converge at April’s IMAST in Glasgow

Join top spine surgeons from around the world at IMAST in amazing Glasgow in April.

Medcura Appoints Spinal Surgery Advisory Board for LifeGel

Medcura’s new spinal surgery advisory board includes 9 spine surgeons who are experts in clinical trial strategy.

Greg Mathien Is THE SEC Team Physician of the Year

Fantastic news out of Knoxville, Tennesee. Greg Mathien, M.D, senior orthopedic surgeon for University of Tennessee (UT) Athletics and sports medicine specialist at Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic (KOC), recently was named the 2025 Team Physician of the Year for Orthopedics by the Southeastern Conference (SEC). He has served as team physician of Tennessee’s Volunteers and Lady […]

AANS February 20th Spine Summit Features Spine Who’s Who

The 2025 AANS Spine Summit will be held February 20-23, 2025, in Tampa, Florida. Juan S. Uribe, M.D., FAANS, AANS/Congress of Neurological Surgeons Section on Disorders of the Spine & Peripheral Nerves Chair, recently shared with Orthopedics This Week what makes this spine meeting a premier event.

Pacira BioSciences’ 2024 Third Quarter Earnings Missed the Mark

Pacira BioSciences reported $168 million in sales and $140 million in operating loss for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which was below both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

Orthofix Reports $5.9 Million Free Cash Flow for Q3

Orthofix Medical Inc. reported $197 million in sales and $5.9 million in free cash flow for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which met both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

Integra LifeSciences Puts Tough Third Quarter in Perspective

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation reported $380.8 million in sales and $8.15 million in operating loss for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which beat both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

CONMED Grows in Q3 Despite Hurricanes

CONMED Corporation reported $316.7 million in sales and $113.38 million in operating profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which was below Wall Street’s expectations, but the company beat expectations with an earnings per share of 1.59.

Bioventus Grows Sales Significantly in Q3, 2024

Bioventus Inc. reported $138.964 million in sales and $4.074 million in operating profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which met both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

Globus Medical: Strong Q3 Sales and Product Intros

Globus 3Q report: $626 million in sales and $48 million in operating profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2024.

Alphatec Beats Wall Street’s Sales Forecasts, But Not EPS

Alphatec reported $151 million in sales and a $33.7 million operating loss for the quarter ending September 2024.

SI-BONE Grows Q3 19%, Despite Hurricane Helene

SI-BONE, Inc. reported $40.3 million in sales and a $7.6 million operating loss for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which was below both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

2025 ORS Annual Meeting to Celebrate Power of Science

In just a couple months, February 7-11, 2025, The Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) will hold its Annual Meeting in warm and welcoming Phoenix, Arizona. Orthopedics This Week has everything you need to know to make the most of this essential orthopedic annual meeting.

2025 Spine: Base to Summit: Program and Focus for 2025

In just six weeks, the 35-year-old meeting Spine: Base to Summit convenes in beautiful Vail, Colorado. For orthopedic and neurological surgeons, this is one of the best collegial winter spine meetings. A must attend.

ZBH’s Q3 Report: OK, Despite Software Bugs

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. reported $1.824 billion in sales and $279.5 million in operating profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, which was above both Wall Street’s expectations and management’s guidance.

Team Stryker Slam Dunks the Q3 Report

Kevin Lobo, chair and chief executive officer of Stryker Corporation, and his management team, reported strong sales growth in its third quarter, leading Team Stryker to bump up organic sales growth from 9.5% to 10%.

As SI Joint Treatment Options Grow, So Does Controversy

A plethora of new MIS SI joint fusion systems are coming to market. But which market? ASC? Office? Hospital? Therein lies the rub. It’s controversial. Key surgeons and CEOs shed light on the evolving practice of SI joint fusion care. A must read.

Simon Young Receives AAHKS’ Clinical Research Award

Simon Young, M.D., knee surgeon in Auckland, New Zealand, received the AAHKS Clinical Research Award.

Charles P. Hannon Is 2024 James A. Rand Young Investigator’s Award

Charles P. Hannon, M.D. honored with the AAHKS James A. Rand Young Investigator’s Award.

Mid-Course Infection Risk Reduction Grade: A-?

How well are today’s orthopedics surgeons controlling infection risk? OTW asked E. Bailey Terhune, M.D. Professor at Rush University and Joseph Bosco, III, NYU Langone and former AAOS President. Their assessment? Overall, surgeons in 2024 are doing well, but must sweat the details every time.

Female Surgeons Breaking Through One Misperception at a Time

It’s almost 2025 and women still only make up about 7% of orthopedic surgeons across the U.S., according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Why is this? Women who are thriving in the field say that it has a lot to do with misperceptions and a lack of commitment to diversity on staff. When done right though, a diverse medical staff improves patient care.

John R. Martin Wins AAHKS’ Surgical Tech Award

John R. Martin, M.D., honored with AAHKS’ Surgical Techniques and Technologies Award at 2024 annual meeting.

The Best Spine Surgeons in America

Here’s one publication’s list of the Best Spine Surgeons in America. We quibble a bit, noting that several top spine surgeons deserve to be on, if not lead, this list. But many of the best of the best are, indeed, listed.

Neurosurgeons Raise Alarm Over Concussive Slap Fighting

Slap fighting—two people standing across from each, slapping each other in the face with open palms—has a higher risk of concussion than contact sports like boxing, martial arts, and football research is starting to show. Organizers are now trying to turn it more mainstream which has many neurosurgeons seriously alarmed.

Addisu Mesfin Receives the NASS Henry Farfan Award

Addisu Mesfin, M.D., is the 2024 recipient of the North American Spine Society’s Henry Farfan Award.

The New Spineology. Patient Conforming, Ultra-MIS, Expandable

In a crowded minimally invasive surgery (MIS) lumbar spine surgery market, with literally dozens of expandable cages that enter the body through a small incision and then expand in situ, one company—no hyperbole—stands alone because, unlike all the other available devices, its patient conforming, patient-specific device enters the body through a space the size of a soda straw.

Philip L. Schneider, M.D. Receives NASS’ 2024 Spine Advocacy Award

Philip L. Schneider, M.D., is the 2024 recipient of the NASS Spine Advocacy Award.

Charles Reitman, M.D.: 2024 Winner of NASS’s David Selby Award

Charles Alan Reitman, M.D. has been honored by NASS with the 2024 David Selby Award.

G. Dean MacEwen, Trailblazing Pediatric Orthopedist, Dies Age 96

Trailblazing Pediatric orthopedist G. Dean MacEwen, M.D.,96, died on August 6, 2024.

NASS President Award Winner: Chistopher Bono, M.D.

Dr. Christopher Bono will be awarded the Past President’s Award at the upcoming NASS conference in September.

Nicholas Theodore Receives 2024 Leon Wiltse Award

Dr. Nicholas Theodore honored with the Leon Wiltse Award for his visionary approach to spine/brain surgery.

The Olympics of Sports Medicine, Literally

The Olympic Games have always captured the imagination of men, women, and children across the world: Athletes at the top of their game testing their skills against one another as they reach for the gold for their respective countries. Keeping these athletes healthy at world class levels is also an Olympian challenge for the physicians and their staff charged with the care of the world’s elite athletes.

Ortho CEO and Doctor Save Shark Attack Victim

Friday, June 7, 2024, started like any other sunny, calm day on one of Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches. Families relaxing. Swimmers frolicking in the clear, warm waters. Then everything changed and two unconnected members of the orthopedic community—a CEO of a start-up orthopedic supplier and an orthopedic surgeon went into ER mode and saved the life of a shark attack victim.

Founder of the Hanson Clinic, Charles Hanson Dies at Age 85

Charles Alvin Hanson, M.D., 85, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at his home in Beulah, Colorado.

Former Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Harris Hospital Dies at 81

Medical and legal expert Joseph Harvey Gaines, III, M.D., 81, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Former National Training Center CEO James Ray Dies at 71

James Michael Ray, M.D., 71, well-respected sports medicine specialist, died April 24, 2024, in Naples, Florida.

Beloved Fayetteville VA Orthopedic Surgeon Dies at 83

Paul Muenzner, M.D., 83, passed away on April 13, 2024, in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Holzer Medical Center Orthopedic Surgeon Edwin Hissa II Dies at 70

Edwin A. Hissa II, M.D., 70, an orthopedic surgeon in Jackson, Ohio, died on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Former Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at St. Luke’s West Dies at 91

Roger L. Mell, M.D., 91, well-respected orthopedics leader, died April 14, 2024, in Kirkwood, Missouri.

Dennis Watkins Wise, M.D. Dies at Age 84

Dennis Watkins Wise, M.D., 84, of Winchester, Virginia, passed away on January 18, 2024.

Bruce Heppenstall, M.D., Penn Medicine Institution, Dies at Age 82

Bruce Heppenstall, M.D., an orthopedic legend at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 4, 2024. Dr. Heppenstall was one of the first orthopedic surgeons to recognize the importance of soft tissue management in traumatic injuries.

Wooster Orthopaedics’ Michael Knapic Dies Unexpectedly at 55

Michael Steven Knapic, D.O., 55, passed away unexpectedly on March 15, 2024.

Michael Eugene Ralston, M.D., Department Chair, Dies at 75

Michael Eugene Ralston, M.D., FACS, 75 passed away on March 30, 2024, in Indianapolis.

Jack Sewell Cooper, M.D. of Miami Dies at Age 85

Jack Sewell Cooper, M.D., 85, military veteran and former CMO of Miami’s Doctor’s Hospital, died on March 31, 2024.

Former Chairman of Malawi Orthopedic Overseas Dies at Age 94

Richard Joseph Kemme, M.D., 94, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Valley Children’s Head of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Dies at 67

Joseph Anthony Gerardi, D.O., 67, a California pediatric orthopedic surgeon, passed away on March 12, 2024.

Greg Lutz, M.D., Pioneer, Founder and Professor, Dies at Age 61

Gregory Lutz, M.D., passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the age of 61 years old.

Stephen Haas, M.D., Professor/White House Consultant Dies, Age 84

Stephen S. Haas, M.D., 84, Air Force veteran, former orthopedic consultant to the White, died on February 23, 2024.

Pennsylvania Orthopedic Surgeon and Inventor Dies at Age 90

Dr. Amsler (90), Naval Medical Officer, inventor, and renown orthopedic surgeon, died Tuesday March 5, 2024.

Theodore John Vigeland, M.D., Dies Age 80

Theodore John Vigeland, M.D., passed away on January 31, 2024, at the age of 80.

Edwards Park “Ned” Schwentker MD Dies Age 82

Pennsylvania orthopedic surgeon Edwards Park “Ned” Schwentker, M.D., 82, has died in Palmyra, New York.

Founder of Abilene Bone and Joint Dies Age 82

J. Graham Bray Jr., 82, founder of the Abilene Bone and Joint Clinic and a true Renaissance Man, has died.

Professor and Orthopedic Surgeon, Andy Wissinger MD Dies Age 92

Dedicated orthopedic surgeon H. Andrew Wissinger, M.D. has passed away at age 92.

Hip Arthroplasty Pioneer, Frank Ariosta MD, Dies at 85 Years

Frank Anthony Ariosta, M.D., 85, a pioneer in hip replacement at Staten Island University Hospital, passed away.

William S. Bundrick Sr. M.D. Dies at Age 85

William Stewart “Billy” Bundrick, Sr., M.D., 85, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2023.

Sarmed George Elias MD, Dies at Age 71

Sarmed George Elias, M.D., a renowned orthopedic surgeon in Chicago, passed away on November 1, 2023.

Leonard Alan Goddy, M.D., Dies, Age 90

Leonard Alan Goddy, M.D., a leader of the Louisville Jewish community, died on December 10, 2023.

John Timothy Bannon, M.D. Dies Age 77

John Timothy Bannon, M.D., 77, an orthopedic surgeon at Shore Memorial Hospital for 35 years, died December 3.

Henry Michael Bell, M.D., Dies at Age 89

Henry Michael Bell, M.D., 89, a Vancouver pediatric orthopedic surgeon, passed away on November 29, 2023.

Hal Douglas Bishop, M.D., Age 86, Deceased

Hal Douglas Bishop, M.D., 86, a well-respected military orthopedic surgeon, died November 25, 2023.

Famed Little Rock Ortho Surgeon, Austin Grimes, Dies at age 94

Dr. Harry Austin “Steno” Grimes did not originally choose medicine as a career—first choice: ace fighter pilot.

Emmanuel Konstantakos, Leading Ortho Surgeon, Dies Age 49

Emmanuel K. “Manny” Konstantakos, M.D., suddenly on November 2, 2023, at the age of 49.

Denver Based Spine Surgeon. Stephen Pehler, M.D., Dies at Age 39

Stephen Pehler, M.D., a Denver-based spine surgeon died on October 9, 2023, at the too-young age of 39.

Arthroscopy Pioneer, Robert Vincent “Bob” Johnson Dies Age 89

Robert Vincent “Bob” Johnson, M.D., 89, a Northern Colorado arthroscopy pioneer died at home on September 2.

Prominent Surgeon Leader, Lt. Commander Shearwood McClelland Dies

Navy Lt. Commander Shearwood J. McClelland, M.D., MPH, FACS, FAAOS a prominent orthopedic surgeon in New York, passed away on August 13, 2023, after 49 years of serving patients.

Philip Heath Gattey MD, Renowned Great Plains Surgeon Dies Age 67

Philip Heath Gattey, M.D., 67, passed away on July 12, 2023 in Bismark, North Dakota.

Texan Orthopedic Surgeon Donald Lazarz Dies at 90

Donald Thomas Lazarz, M.D., 90, a longtime orthopedic surgeon in Houston, Texas, died earlier this year.

Surgeon, Lawyer, and Beloved Team Physician, ‘Doc’ Blue, Dies at 93

Alfred Blue, M.D., 93, former team physician for the Seattle Thunderbirds hockey April 23, 2023.

Foot & Ankle Surgeon Ronald J. Bruscia Dies at 75

Ronald J. Bruscia, DPM, 75, a foot and ankle surgeon in Katy, Texas, passed away on February 4, 2023.

Award Winning Combat Surgeon Bob Bilderback Dies at 85

Robert Douglas “Bob” Bilderback, M.D., 85, a Vietnam veteran and orthopedic surgeon, died on March 10, 2023.

Nationally Renowned Surgeon Mourned After Shooting

Yet another practicing surgeon has been gunned down. Dr. Benjamin Mauck, like Dr. Stephanie Husen and Dr. Preston Phillips before him, was murdered at his hospital and leaves behind heart sick patients, colleagues, family and the entire ortho community. Is this the price we’re willing to pay for allowing weapons into hospitals and clinics?

Martha Vineyard’s David Stuart Babin Remembered

David Stuart Babin, M.D., 89, a Martha’s Vineyard orthopedic surgeon, died July 3, 2023.

Spine Surgeon Robert Gabriel Squillante Dies Age at 62

Robert Gabriel Squillante, Jr. M.D. (Dr. Bob) passed away unexpectedly at the age of 62 on July 2, 2023.

Yale Professor Emeritus Kristaps Keggi Has Died at Age 88

Pioneering orthopedic surgeon, Kristaps J. Keggi, M.D., 88, Yale Medicine Professor Emeritus, died July 4, 2023.

Steve Groff, 58, Co-Founder of Orthopedic & Spine Specialists Dies

Steven K. Groff, M.D, 58, Orthopedic & Spine Specialists, died on June 4, 2023, in Dallastown, Pennsylvania.

Marshfield Clinic’s Scott Edward Cameron Dies at 62

Scott Edward Cameron, M.D., 62, died June 6, 2023, after a valiant battle with a rare cancer.

Former Armstrong County Memorial Hospital Doc Lazaros Soto Dies

Lazaros N. Sotos, M.D., 80, who served patients at Armstrong County Memorial Hospital, died June 19, 2023.

Prominent Philadelphia Orthopedic Surgeon Dies at 99

Martin L. Beller, M.D., 99, passed away on June 6, 2023, in Gaines, Pennsylvania.

Premier Orthopedics’ L. Joseph Rubino, III Passes Away at 52

L. Joseph Rubino, III, 52, an orthopedic surgeon in Centerville, Ohio, passed away on April 5, 2023.

Dr. Smolenski, 83, Former Orthopedic Society President, Dies

Benjamin Ignatius Smolenski, M.D., 83, past president Philadelphia Orthopedic Society, died on June 9, 2023.

Blue Ridge Bone & Joint Clinic’s Wayne Montgomery Dies at 97

Wayne Swope Montgomery, M.D., passed away on January 6, 2023, at Brooks-Howell in Asheville, North Carolina.

One of the Greats, Fred “Fritz” Drill, Has Died at Age 92

Frederick E. Drill, M.D. has died—2 days shy of his 93rd birthday.

Orthopedic Surgeon-Educator Alexander Robertson, III, Deceased

Orthopedic surgeon and educator Alexander Robertson, III, M.D., 54, died from brain cancer on May 24, 2023.

Maxwell Stepanuk, Famed Surgeon and Educator, Dies at 78

Maxwell Stepanuk Jr., M.D., (78) a prominent Philadelphia orthopedic surgeon and educator, died on May 18, 2023.

Paul Lee Ramsey, Father of the “Ramsey Safe Zone,” Dies at Age 85

Paul Lee Ramsey, M.D., 85, an orthopedic educator, innovator, and surgeon passed away on May 20, 2023.

Former Home Hospital Orthopedic Chair, Gilbert Gutwein Dies at 89

Well-respected orthopedic surgeon, Gilbert Gutwein, M.D., 89, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.

Retired Spine Surgeon Brad Bailey Hall Dies at 71

Brad Bailey Hall, 71, retired San Antonio, Texas spine surgeon and hospital administrator, died March 22, 2023.

Laredo Neurosurgeon Carlos Estrada Dies at 69

Carlos Ricardo Estrada, D.O., 69, a well-known, respected Laredo, Texas neurosurgeon, died on March 9, 2023.

Orthopedic Surgeon Leonard Patrick Jennings, Jr., Dies at 88

Leonard Patrick Jennings, Jr., M.D., 88, a well-respected orthopedic surgeon died April 26, 2023.

Partner of East Memphis Orthopedic Group Ted Galyon Dies at 93

James “Ted” Galyon, M.D., 93, a founding partner of East Memphis Orthopedic Group died on April 28, 2023.

Detroit Neurosurgeon Found Murdered in His Home

Devon A. Hoover, M.D., 53, a well-respected neurosurgeon, found dead in his Detroit home on April 23, 2023.

Transformational Hand Surgeon John Agee Dies at 78

John Agee, M.D., 78, a prominent hand surgeon and founder of the Hand Biomechanics Lab died April 13, 2023.

Remarkable Orthopedic Surgeon, Leader and Mentor, Ram Krishna Dies at 77

Prominent Arizona orthopedi surgeon Ram R. Krishna, M.D., passed away on April 17, 2023.

Vietnam Vet, Pioneering Orthopedic Surgeon James Ford Cole Dies

James Ford Cole, M.D., 83, orthopedic surgeon and Vietnam veteran, died April 18, 2023 in Huron, South Dakota.

Scottsdale, Arizona Orthopedic Surgeon Ronald Lampert Dies at 89

Orthopedic Surgeon Ronald Lampert, M.D., (89) died March 26, 2023, at the Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix.

Louisville Orthopedic Surgeon Philip T. Brown Dies at 79

Philip Thomas Browne, M.D., (79) a well-known Louisville orthopedic surgeon, died Thursday, April 13, 2023.

Louisville Orthopedic Surgeon Martin Gordon Schiller Dies at 82

Martin Gordon Schiller, M.D., 82, a retired orthopedic surgeon in Louisville, Kentucky died April 4, 2023.

Inventor, Orthopedic Surgeon Denis Drennan Dies at 85

Denis Burke Drennan, M.D., a leader in orthopedic surgery and author of dozens of U.S. and international patents for medical devices, passed away on April 6, 2023, at the age of 85. Drennan served as the chairman of the department of orthopedic surgery at Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois, from 1984 to 2000 and […]

Pioneer in Arthroscopy Dr. John Joseph Billion Dies at 83

Well-respected orthopedic surgeon Dr. John “Jack” Joseph Billion, (83) died February 25, 2023, in Sioux Falls.

Founder of Orthopedic Associates of Brattleboro Dies at 90

John Turner Chard, M.D., 90, founding partner of Vermont’s Orthopedic Associates of Brattleboro, died April 8, 2023.

Founder of Olivewood Orthopaedics John Sanford Holmes Dies at 80

John Sanford Holmes, M.D., (80) orthopedic surgeon/founder of Olivewood Orthopaedics died March 6, 2023.

Founding AOFAS Member Malcolm Brahms Dies at 103

Malcolm Brahms, M.D., 103, founding member of AOFAS and former Cleveland Browns team surgeon, died March 19, 2023.

Founder of Orthopaedic Associates of West Florida Dies at 79

John Martin McClure III, M.D., 79, founder of Orthopaedic Associates of West Florida, died on March 4, 2023.

‘The Ultimate Decent Orthopedic Surgeon’ Dr. Greenler Dies At 98

John Joseph Greenler, M.D., 98, “The Ultimate Decent Man” passed away in Haverhill, Massachusetts.

Pioneer in Pediatric Limb Reconstruction Kenneth Brown Dies at 71

Kenneth L.B. Brown, M.D., MSc, FRCSC, a pioneer in pediatric limb reconstruction, passed away from stroke at the age of 71 on March 20, 2023. In his orthopedic practice, he focused on the treatment of skeletal deformities in children, musculoskeletal tumors and reconstructive microsurgery.

Less Instability After Arthroscopic Stabilization of Shoulder

Primary anterior glenohumeral dislocation patients have lower instability rates with arthroscopic stabilization…

Dynamic Digital Radiography Better for Shoulder Injuries

Compared with static imaging, dynamic digital radiography provides better understanding of shoulder injuries…

Vietnam Vet and Community Man Joseph Schrodt Dies at 85

Joseph “Merle” Schrodt, M.D. (85), Illinois orthopedic surgeon and community leader, passed away March 17, 2023.

Pioneer in Hand Surgery John Thomas Sack Dies at 82

Seattle orthopedic surgeon, John Thomas Sack, pioneer in hand surgery, died in his sleep on February 3, 2023, at the age of 82. Sack was dedicated to his patients, logging in the most on call hours in the history of the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Seattle. He also believed in mentoring the surgeons who came after him.

Dramatic NYU Study Finds Nutrition CRITICAL to Outcomes

Seldom are differences between a control group and a treatment group in a RCT as dramatic and clear as this.

Carlisle, PA’s Thomas Jeffrey Green Dies at Age 82

Orthopedic surgeon Thomas Jeffrey Green, M.D., passed away on March 2, 2023, at the age of 82.

Knee Arthroscopy Pioneer Roger Vernal Larson Dies at 78

Roger Vernal Larson, M.D., 78, died in Redmond, Washington, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Care for a ‘Sandwich’ With That Fusion?

Patients with “sandwich fusion” and atlantoaxial dislocation often present with unique clinical.

Pioneering Hand Surgeon William Green Dies at 78

Well-loved San Francisco orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Louis “Bill” Green, 78, passed away January 14, 2023.

Military Vet and Orthopedic Surgeon William Grise Dies at 94

William P Grise, M.D., 94, known for his compassionate bedside manner, passed away February 21, 2023.

University of Rochester Medical Center’s John Goldblatt Dies at 56

John P. Goldblatt, M.D., 56, with the University of Rochester Medical Center, died after an unexpected illness.

Harry ‘Doc’ Burdick, Founder of K-Valley Orthopedics, Dies at 92

Harry ‘Doc’ William Burdick, M.D., 92, passed away on February 14, 2023, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Mentor, Orthopedic Surgeon, Donald Ettelson Dies at 91

Orthopedic surgeon/mentor Donald “Zeke” Ettelson, M.D., 91, Laconia, New Hampshire, died on January 27, 2023.

First Settlement Orthopaedics’ Jesse Ramirez Ada Dies at Age 70

Jesse Ramirez Ada, M.D. 70, passed away unexpectedly on January 31, 2023.

Union County Orthopedic Group’s Walter Pedowitz Dies at Age 78

Walter J. Pedowitz, M.D., (78) a founding partner of the Union County Orthopedic Group, passed away on February 1, 2023.

Kettering Health Network’s Matthew Kauffman Dies at 49

Matthew Joel Kauffman, D.O., 49, of Kettering Health Network in Ohio died unexpectedly on February 2, 2023.

Dr. J. Richard Steadman, Founder of the Steadman Clinic, Dies At 85

The legendary surgeon and innovator, Dr. John Richard Steadman has passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 20, 2023, at the age of 85. It will be very hard to accurately convey his influence on the practice of sports medicine and orthopedics in general.

Lower Fusion Rate With Arthrodesis for Bunions

Arthrodesis is an effective way to treat hallux valgus deformity, but…

Faster Pitch Velocity Creates Higher Risk of Elbow Injury

Professional baseball pitchers with faster pitch velocity were linked to a highest risk of elbow injury…

Ortho Surgeon Pioneer, Francis Tindall Dies Age 83

Francis Kenney Tindall, M.D., (83) founder of Arizona Bone & Joint Specialists in Phoenix, Arizona, has died.

Elbow Fractures: Surgery or Not?

New study, a critical analysis review, looked at a particular type of elbow fracture—the olecranon fracture.

Do Umbilical Cord Stromal Cells Aid in Rotator Cuff Healing?

Do small extracellular vesicles derived from human umbilical cord MSC affect healing after rotator cuff repair?

Does a High HbA1c Equal a High Rotator Cuff Retear Rate?

If glycemic level increases during the first 3-6x months post-surgery, does the retear rate change?

Return to Sport After Bankart Repair With Remplissage

Throwing athletes have a slightly lower return to sport rate after Bankart repair with remplissage.

Pioneering Texas Orthopedic Surgeon Jim Board Giles Dies At 71

Retired orthopedic surgeon, James “Jim” Board Giles, M.D.,(71) passed away on January 11, 2023.

Fascia Lata Good Graft for Superior Capsule Reconstruction

Using a fascia lata graft for superior capsule reconstruction offers positive patient outcomes—new study.

Debridement Not Recommended for Elbow OCD Lesions

Arthroscopic debridement is not the best option to treat grade 3 or grade 4 capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions, according to a new study.

What Are the Risk Factors for Shoulder, Elbow Surgery?

Research included studies that evaluated the effect of having at least one functional somatic syndrome.

Updated Spine Fracture Practice Guidelines Released

New study concludes that surgical management of the fractures should be considered more often than it has been in the past.

Hip And Knee Surgeon Bruce Wentworth Burleigh Dies Age 79

Joplin, Missouri hip and knee surgeon Bruce Wentworth Burleigh, M.D. passed away on December 20, 2022.

Chief of Surgery and Great Mentor, Carl Wilson M.D., Dies Age 85

Carl E. Wilson, M.D., (85) retired orthopedic trauma surgeon, died of renal failure on December 14, 2022.

Arthroscopic Ankle Arthrodesis Superior to Open Ankle Arthrodesis

New study suggests arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis superior to open ankle arthrodesis to treat ankle arthritis.

Return to Sport After Biceps Tenodesis 35-100%

While clinical outcomes from biceps tenodesis are generally excellent, return to sport rates are highly variable.

Study of 1,583 Scarf Osteotomies Uncovers Outcome Stats

Largest study ever—a systematic review of 1,583 scarf osteotomies teased out the average rates of recurrence.

No Benefit to Intraoperative Channeling in Rotator Cuff Repair?

Adding intraoperative channeling to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair doesn’t improve healing rates—new study.

Researchers Pinpoint Time to Return to Sports After Concussion

“Median time to return to sports after concussion is within 21 days in 80% of published studies.”

Hospital Size and Teaching Status Equal Better Outcomes?

Size of hospital and teaching status equates to better overall ankle arthroplasty patient outcomes—new study.

Preop Diffusion Basis Spectrum Imaging – How Effective?

Preoperative diffusion basis spectrum imaging can predict improvement after surgical decompression?

Wound Drains Increase Hospital LOS After Lumbar Surgery?

New RCT found evidence wound drains after lumbar arthrodesis for degenerative lumbar disorders increase LOS?

Elite Athletes 2x More Likely to Need Hip Arthroplasty

Both male and female elite athletes at increased total hip arthroplasty risk versus the general population.

‘Larger Than Life’ Armen Haig M.D. Passes Away at 90

Armen Charles Haig, M.D passed away on August 2, 2022, in Greenwich, Connecticut, at the age of 90.

Co-Founder of Orthopaedic Associates of Lancaster Deceased at 84

John “Jack” Haines Shertzer, M.D., co-founder of Orthopaedic Associates of Lancaster died November 5, 2022.

Hello! What ARE the Demographics in Spine Clinical Trials?

A new study from the group at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute in Philadelphia is highlighting the surprising lack of consistent demographics reporting in randomized control spine trials—regardless of journal.

Victor Panitch, Formerly of Shriner’s Hospital, Dies at 90

Victor Panitch, M.D. (90), a long-time physician at Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Holyoke, MA, passed away.

Rapid Weight Loss Increases Wrestling Injury Risk

Rapid weight cutting associated with a higher risk of in-competition injuries in division 1 collegiate wrestlers.

How to Predict Which Patients Will Wear Their Slings

New study finds certain factors may predict if a patient will comply with wearing a sling after surgery.

Autograft or Allograft for Superior Capsule Reconstruction?

Do you prefer, autograft or allograft for superior capsule reconstruction? Is there a difference in ROM?

17,326 Record Low Back Pain Study Has Sobering Conclusions

Still on the journey to successfully treating chronic non-specific low back pain without radiculopathy?

The Value of the Arthroscopic Trillat Procedure

The Trillat procedure has been associated with the potential for serious complications—new findings.

Watch Out for Height Changes After Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis

Patient’s height may change following tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis—new study.

Greensboro Orthopedic Surgeon Thomas Presson Dies, Age 82

Thomas Lemuel Presson, M.D. of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away on October 3, 2022, at the age of 82.

Fusion or Decompression for Spondylolisthesis?

If you HAD to make a choice, fusion or decompression (not both), which would you select?

Marijuana Increases Cervical Spine Reop Risk: New Study

Patients using marijuana before ACDF can increase their risk of a cervical spine reoperation.

Does Early Mobilization Improve Achilles Tendon Outcomes?

Early functional mobilization after surgery for acute Achilles tendon rupture doesn’t lead to a faster recovery…

Co-Founder of Orthopedic Surgeons, Inc. Passes Away at 85

Erie, Pennsylvania orthopedic surgeon, James E. Mraz, M.D., 85, died on September 20, 2022.

After 40 Year Surgical Career, Michael Stephen Thompson Dies At 72

Michael Steven Thompson, M.D., passed away on October 23, 2022.

New Algorithm Sets Time for Return to Sport

New study valuates when it is time for an athlete to return to sport following ACL reconstruction.

Is Bone Loss a Primary Factor in Bankart Failure?

Revision Bankart repair has a failure rate of 44%. To what extent is bone loss a factor?

Is a Block Safer Than Epidural Steroid Injections?

Ultrasound-guided cervical retro-laminar block a safer alternative to cervical epidural steroid injections?

Repair Tension vs Microvascular Blood Flow: Where’s the Line?

“Repair tension and microvascular blood flow within the rotator cuff has a critical impact on tendon healing….”

Robotic Assist vs Free-Hand Screw Placement: Which Wins?

Robotic and/or navigation assisted pedicle screw placement is both safer/more accurate than…screw placement?

John Thomas Irwin, M.D., Ortho Surgeon for 48 Years, Dies at Age 74

Orthopedic surgeon John Thomas Irwin, M.D., died at age 74 on October 2, 2022.

For 40 Years, Dr. Ralph Touma Treated Kentucky’s Ortho Patients

Kentucky orthopedic surgeon Ralph Ilian Touma, M.D., 80, passed away on September 1, 2022.

Joint Arthroplasty Pioneer Michael Kelly Dies at 70

Michael A. Kelly, M.D., October 10, 2022, died at the age of 70 after a long battle with prostate cancer.

A Giant Upon Whose Shoulders We Stand Has Died

The ever patient teacher, lecturer, and early pioneer of spine surgery, Professor Kiyoshi Kaneda passed away in his beloved Sapporo, Japan, on October 9, 2022, at the age of 86 years.

One Simple Way to Improve Spine Patient Safety

It’s a simple thing all spine clinics can do to improve patient safety—document that the ICD-10 coding.

PACS Shoulder Surgery Shines in New Study

There are several joint preserving techniques to treat pre-arthritic, type C1 posterior shoulder instability.

Vietnam Vet Dr. Joseph Izzi, Sr. Passes Away at Age 87

Joseph A. Izzi, Sr., M.D., Vietnam vet and Rhode Island-based orthopedic surgeon, died on May 8, 2022.

Former Department Chair, Dr. Thomas Frank Trainer Dies At 82

Notable Indianapolis orthopedist, Dr. Thomas Frank Trainer, passed away on July 29, 2022.

Texarkana’s Jeffrey Thomas DeHaan Passes Away at 66

Dr. Jeffrey Thomas DeHaan passed away on June 21, 2022, in Texarkana, Texas, at the age of 66.

301,000 Patient Study Tests ‘Awake Spine Surgery’

Awake spine surgery is a growing trend in spine surgery, but the pros and cons of this type of surgery have been little studied until now.

Sagittal Balance Plays Limited Role in Adjacent Segment Disease

Poor sagittal balance has limited role in the risk for revisions for adjacent segment disease….

Arthroscopy Pioneer, 50+ Year Career Surgeon, Howard Sturtz Dies

Howard Sturtz, M.D., 87, orthopedic surgeon—a curious soul who embraced all life had to offer—passed away.

Stephen Neely M.D., Veteran of 10,000 Joint Surgeries, Dies Age 77

Orthopedic surgeon Stephen Minick Neely, M.D.,77, veteran of over 10,000 total joint surgeries, passed away.

Does Cervical Arthroplasty Relieve Neck Pain More?

Cervical disc replacement treatment: where is it more effective—axial neck pain or radicular arm pain?

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Surgery in Nonthrowing Athletes

Nonthrowing athletes undergoing either UCL repair or UCL reconstruction have favorable outcomes.

Orthopedic Surgeon and Reverend, Richard Senghas Dies at Age 94

For orthopedic surgeon and reverend, Richard E. Senghas, M.D., life was a calling to heal, in all its forms. Richard Senghas lived a truly extraordinary and giving life. He died on September 10, 2022, at the age of 94 at the Piper Shores community in Scarborough, Maine.

New Study Tackles Adult Spinal Deformity Revision Rates

New study summarizes recent literature on adult spinal deformity treatment failure and ways to prevent it.

How Fast or Accurate Is Screw Placement Using Augmented Reality?

New data regarding the effects of using Augmented Reality tools to place pedicle screws during surgery.

Vietnam Vet, Orthopedic Surgeon, Donald Paarlberg Dies at 85

Donald Paarlberg, M.D., a respected orthopedic surgeon and medical examiner passed away at the age of 85.

Vietnam Vet and West Virginia Surgeon, John Owen Mullen, Dies At 81

West Virginia Orthopedic surgeon John Owen Mullen, M.D., passed away peacefully at age 81.

Refugee, Vancouver Ortho Surgeon, Petar Kokan Dies at Age 92

Dr. Petar Kokan, 92, Croatian refugee and prominent Vancouver orthopedic surgeon, passed away.

Orthopedic Surgeon, Family Man Gary Wayne Miller Passes Away

Gary Wayne Miller, Sr., M.D., 78, passed away on September 6, 2022, at home in Vienna, West Virginia.

A Man of Many Talents, Dr. William H. Simon Dies at 84

Orthopedic surgeon, singer, mystery novel writer, Vietnam Vet William H. Simon, M.D., passed away after a battle with brain cancer on September 11, 2022, at the age of 84.

Cortical Buttons vs. Screws for Latarjet

The use of cortical buttons during arthroscopic Latarjet surgery is not superior to the use of screws in open Latarjet in the short-term according to a new study.

Depression Increases Revision Surgery Odds 16x

New study from The Rothman Institute finds that patients with a history of depression and/or anxiety who undergo posterior cervical decompression and fusion have a significantly more difficult, indeed up to 16x more difficult, road to recovery than other patients.

Progression of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Contralateral Hip

FAI a common causes of hip OA, but the factors controlling the progression are not completely understood.

Well-known LA Surgeon, Stanford Noel in Practice 50 Years, Dies

Stanford M. Noel, M.D., (87) a retired LA orthopedic surgeon, passed away after a long illness.

Robotics Reduces Radiation Better Than Navigation?

Does using robotics instead of navigation to guide the procedure reduce radiation exposure?

New Orleans Orthopedic Surgeon Ralph Gessner Passes Away At 85

New Orleans surgeon Ralph James Gessner, M.D., (85) affectionately called “Doc,” died peacefully at home.

Orthopedic Surgeon and Family Man Maurice Brown Dies at 62

Maurice “Mo” Dean Brown, M.D., dedicated orthopedic surgeon to all, died at the age of 62.

Orthopedic Surgeon and Anesthesiologist Seung Chan Lee Dies at 85

Seung “Sam” Chan Lee, M.D., 85, beloved orthopedic surgeon/anesthesiologist, died peacefully on August 21, 2022.

Norman Johanson, Former Chief of Orthopedics at Hahnemann, Dies At 72

Dr. Johanson, the retired chief of orthopedics at Hahnemann University Hospital, has passed away at the age of 72.

Frank Schildgen, Orthopedic Surgeon and Humanitarian, Dies at 75

Francis (Frank) Henry Schildgen, M.D., known for his skill as an orthopedic surgeon and a true humanitarian.

Robert Ribbe, Vietnam Vet and Orthopedic Surgeon, Dies Age 83

Robert Ernest Ribbe, M.D., a Vietnam Vet and orthopedic surgeon, died July 10, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Orthopedic Surgeon and Opera Singer Leonard D. Emond Dies at 93

Orthopedic surgeon and opera singer, Leonard D. Emond, M.D., dead at the age of 93.

Knee Replacement Pioneer, Russell Windsor Dies Age 70

Russell E. Windsor, M.D., (70) a pioneer in knee replacement, tragically died after a fatal cycling accident.

Anthony Merlino, Rhode Island Orthopedic Co-Founder, Dies Age 92

Rhode Island Orthopedic Group co-founder Anthony F. Merlino, M.D., has died at the age of 92.

Hartford, Yale and Children’s Hospital Mentor, John Raycroft Dies Age 91

John F. Raycroft, M.D., of Glastonbury, Connecticut, died on July 25, 2022, at the age of 91.

Arkansas Ortho Pioneer, Marvin Mumme Jr., Dies Age 77

Marvin E. Mumme, Jr., M.D., who was devoted to his patients, passed away on July 15, 2022, at the age of 77.

Founder of Mid-Carolina Orthopedics John Davis Dies

John E. Davis, M.D., founder of Mid-Carolina Orthopedics in North Carolina, passed away at the age of 79.

Surgeon, Former OSMA President, Steven Combs Dies at Age 78

Steven P. Combs, M.D. passed away unexpectedly on July 26, 2022, in Concord, Ohio, at the age of 78.

Osteochondral Fragment Fixation Vs. Bone Marrow Stimulation

Patients with talus osteochondral lesions…osteochondral fragment fixation offers superior clinical outcomes.

Arthroscopic Shoulder Decompression Better Than Exercise?

Subacromial impingement patients have better functional outcomes with arthroscopic subacromial decompression.

Loosening, Failure, and Revision in Adult Deformity Surgery

Lumbopelvic fixation failure rates high with adult spinal deformity correction and fewer clinical improvements.

Let’s Take a Closer Look at the Lisfranc Joint Complex

Increasingly, this tough band of tissue—the Lisfranc ligament—is being viewed as THE key to joint changes.

Females More Likely to Develop Adhesive Capsulitis

The research, “Sex-specific Considerations for Shoulder Instability and Adhesive Capsulitis in Females,” was published online on May 19, 2022 in the Journal of Orthopedics and Orthopedic Surgery.

When Is Driving Safe After Rotator Cuff Repair?

New study: rotator cuff repair patients can safely return to driving two weeks after surgery.

Lack of Gender Diversity in Concussion Research

Female athletes are significantly under-represented in sport-related concussion research.

Endoscopic Vs. Open Discectomy, Which Wins?

Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy versus open microdiscectomy for sciatica patients?

Measure Twice, Cut Once? Depends on the Software!

Software has become the boon or boondoggle for orthopedic surgeons.

How Well Does Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Work?

A new study surveyed 60 patients who had been treated with triplane metatarsal phalangeal joint arthrodesis to see how well they were doing post operatively.

Graft Attachment to Glenoid Bone or Torn Tendon?

New study: superior capsular reconstruction vs bridging graft for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Women Vertebra Fracture Risk Higher Skiing Vs. Snowboarding

Women had a larger percentage of acute vertebral fractures from skiing than from snowboarding according to a recent study of 466 acute fractures.

Co-founder of the Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute Robert Diaz Dies

Orthopedic surgeon, and co-founder of the Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute in Southern Florida, Robert Leonard Diaz has passed away at the age of 86.

Which Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture Treatment Is Safer?

Treating displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures percutaneously reduces complication rates.

What Causes Most Spine Reoperations—in China?

Common reasons for spine reoperations—in China—epidural hematoma/neurological deficit/pedicle screw malposition.

3D Motion Analysis Reveals Gait/DHS Connection

New study: connection between extended walking by patients with adult spinal thoracolumbar deformity and DHS.

Orthopedic Surgeon Glenn Blish Carpenter Dies at 96

Dr. Glenn Blish Carpenter (96), well-loved orthopedic surgeon, passed away on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

Motor Control Training Improves Function After Disc Herniation

New study: motor control training vs transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for lumbar disc herniation.

Local Infiltration Analgesia Is a Mixed Bag

“While providing effective analgesia following shoulder arthroplasty, an interscalene block has known complications.”

First Surgeries Using Additive Implants’ Cervical Spacer

Additive Implants announced the first surgeries using its new SureMAX-SA cervical interbody spine implants.

A True Renaissance Man Dr. Bernard Allan Lublin Dies

Dr. Bernard Allan Lublin, orthopedic surgeon and true renaissance man, died on June 5, 2022, at the age of 85.

Remplissage Improves Bankart Repair Results

Adding remplissage to Bankart repair improves shoulder stability, but medial…decrease range of motion.

Wound Issues/Fusion Rate Trade-off Subject of Foot Study

When ankle arthrodesis performed, one trade-off can be elevated risk of post operative wound problems.

Reducing Infection Risk for Achilles Open Repair

Posterior crural fasciotomy is more effective at reducing Achilles post-operative surgical site infection rates.

Eugene Gulish, an ‘Extraordinary’ Surgeon, Dies at 85

Dr. Eugene “Gene” Frank Gulish, a dedicated orthopedic surgeon, passed away on June 7, 2022, at the age of 85.

Roger Härtl Receives AANS 2022 Humanitarian of the Year

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons has named spine surgeon Roger Härtl the association’s Humanitarian of the Year.

Benefiting From Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Takes How Long?

The study “will aid surgeons in patient selection…expected postoperative time courses.”

Another Reason for Bone Density Tests: Lisfranc Injuries

The Lisfranc joint is where the metatarsal bones and the tarsal bones meet.

Suprascapular Nerve Release Not Needed for Rotator Cuff Repair

Suprascapular nerve release to rotator cuff repair may not provide improvements in functional outcomes.

Myoelectric Prosthetics for Shoulder Amputees: New Study

Amputation a successful treatment for certain traumatic brachial plexus injuries when surgical reconstruction fails.

Dr. David Altchek Received HSS Lifetime Achievement Award

Hospital for Special Surgery honors David W. Altchek, M.D., with its 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arthroscopic Bankart Repair Studies Suffer From Small ‘n’

In the latest research on arthroscopic bony Bankart repair—larger studies are needed.

Orthopedic Surgeon Cecil Neville Dies at Age 87

Cecil H. Neville, Jr., M.D., passed away on June 6, 2022, at the age of 87.

Suture Tape Augmentation Speeds Up UCLR Recovery

UCLR with suture tape augmentation adds strength and speeds up rehab for athletes.

New Classification for Brachymetatarsia

New study: brachymetatarsia is a congenital soft tissue deformity of a ray of the foot.

Role of Shortened Proximal Phalanx

Brachymetatarsia is a congenital deformity in which a metatarsal bone does not grow out to full length.

Lauren Geaney Receives AOFAS Leadership Award

Lauren E. Geaney, M.D. received the 2002 Career Development Award from the Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Foundation.

Athletes vs. Nonathletes: Who Does Better After Hip Arthroscopy?

Athletes over 40 have better outcomes after primary hip arthroscopy than nonathletes of the same age.

Dr. Stephanie Husen: One of the Victims of the Tulsa Shooting

Stephanie Jolene Husen, D.O., 48, one of the four victims killed on June 1 in the Tulsa medical center shooting.

Lafayette New York’s Dr. Walter Gilsdorf Dies Age 88

Well-loved New York orthopedic surgeon Walter T. Gilsdorf passes away at the age of 88.

Chattanooga Surgeon Walter King, Jr. Lived a “Big” Life

Walter “Bill” Hughey King, Jr., M.D., died on May 25, 2022, at the age of 80 after a “living large” life.

Biologic Augmented Fixation vs Fixation Alone: Differences?

Biologically augmented fixation of Jones fractures versus union rates than fixation alone.

Spin Rate: Another Benefit From Tommy John Surgery?

What three stats usually make or break Major League Baseball pitcher’s career.

Pioneering Ortho Surgeon, David Bowles, Dies at age 71

David Lance Bowles, M.D. passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at the age of 71, after a prolonged illness.

Return to Competitive Wrestling After ACLR High

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), return to sport is high in competitive wresting.

2nd Study Also Finds Gap Between Patient and Surgeon Perceptions

New study on difference in how patients and surgeons perceive shared decision-making.

New Study Sheds Light on Rare Stener-Like Knee Injuries

One of the more rare sports related knee injuries, a Stener-like injury of the medial collateral ligament.

3D Printed Guides vs Drill Guiding. Which Is Better?

Study concluded that adding screw-guiding techniques to 3D-printed drill guides NOT of significant benefit.

What’s the Psychology of NOT Using Autograft? Study Has Answers

What is the psychology of using or NOT using autograft to repair an anterior cruciate ligament?

Superior Capsular Reconstruction or Lower Trapezius Transfer?

New study: lower trapezius transfer delivers greater functional improvement/patient satisfaction/graft integrity.

Certain Risk Factors Can Predict Longer Hospital Stay

External fixation/discharge destination are independent risk factors for a prolonged hospital stay in elderly.

Partial Repair or Balloon Implant for Rotator Cuff Repair?

Partial repair or a balloon implant? Which can deliver better outcomes?

The Pros and Cons of Bristow vs Latarjet for Rugby Athletes

There are advantages and disadvantages to both the Latarjet and Bristow procedure for rugby players.