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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.

Rajesh Arakal, MD, of Plano-based Texas Back Institute, has become an expert with spinal navigation technology and said he sees artificial intelligence as a potential game changer in the space.

Frank Phillips, MD, is heading into the new year with a new spine tool in his arsenal.

While spine and orthopedic surgeons may be prepared to execute flawless operations for their patients on surgery day, several other factors can determine whether a surgery is successful. 

The orthopedic leaders who will get ahead in 2025 will home in on opportunities and communication.

Getting familiar with enabling technologies and other innovations should be a top priority for spine surgeons who want to have a strong 2025.

Spine surgery has a glaring gender disparity, and there are notable gaps between orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons, says Rachel Bratescu, MD, of Washington, D.C.-based George Washington University Hospital.

The future of spine robots is headed to automation, but the transition to the technology can be smoother than anticipated, Jason Lowenstein, MD, said.