Featured Insights

Spinal neurosurgeon Xiaofei (Sophie) Zhou, MD, is a pioneer within Cleveland-based University Hospitals. 

Orthopedic diversity and fostering more leadership opportunities for women in the specialty has been a top priority for Robert McLain, MD.

The advancements in total disc replacement and minimally invasive spine surgery pose strong opportunities for the specialty amid ongoing healthcare challenges, Robert McLain, MD, said.

Patient-specific orthopedic care is becoming more commonplace as 3D printing technology becomes more sophisticated and widespread, Michael Rivlin, MD, said.

Christopher Dunleavy's career has taken him across the gamut of healthcare settings including  Boston-based Brigham Health, Dallas-based Baylor Health and USMD Holdings. Now he's at a unique stage as CFO of New York City-based Hospital for Special Surgery.

Payer frustrations and anesthesia coverage are among the headwinds facing spine and orthopedic leaders in 2025. But growing outpatient case volume and integrating new technologies is becoming easier for many practices.

An upcoming orthopedic merger will allow three practices to expand their scale at the statewide and national level.

A continuing pain point for spine and orthopedic surgeons is prior authorizations and working with payers to get patients' care covered. 

Spine surgeons working with academic spine programs should remember their "true north"— exceptional patient care — to stay strong in the new year, Ali Baaj, MD, said.

Spine technology, robotics and artificial intelligence are at a pivotal point, and two key considerations will play a role in their future, Ali Baaj, MD, said.