From first-in-state surgical innovations to new practice models centered on patient autonomy, orthopedic surgeons across the country are pushing boundaries and reshaping musculoskeletal care.
Here are five who made headlines in the past month:
- Travis Maak, MD, performs the first procedure using the Reverse ChondroMatch system: Dr. Maak, professor of orthopaedics and Utah Jazz team physician, used the Salt Lake City-based University of Utah’s new minimally invasive technology to treat a difficult tibial cartilage defect.
The arthroscopic, retrograde system, the first designed for 8-14 mm lesions, enables precise access to an area traditionally considered hard to treat. Early feedback showed improved accuracy and efficiency.
- Damion Walker, DO, completes Kansas’ first Mako robotic-assisted shoulder replacement: Dr. Walker of Wichita-based Kansas Spine & Specialty Hospital performed the state’s first shoulder replacement using Stryker’s Mako SmartRobotics system.
He is currently the only physician in the region offering Mako-assisted shoulder procedures. The technology is designed to improve implant accuracy, reduce pain and support faster recovery with minimal soft-tissue disruption. Dr. Walker previously introduced Mako robotics to Wichita a decade ago for other joint replacement surgeries.
- Justin Smith, MD, to launch independent practice, Journey Orthopaedic Institute: Dr. Smith announced he would leave Charlotte, N.C.-based Atrium Health to open his own practice at the end of 2025.
Journey Orthopaedic Institute will focus on “cost transparency, holistic sports medicine, patient-first care and innovation.”
- Daniel Howard, MD, performs Connecticut’s first MISHA Knee System implant: Dr. Howard of Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group completed Connecticut’s first procedure using the MISHA Knee System, a newly FDA-authorized implantable shock absorber designed for patients with medial knee osteoarthritis who want to avoid total knee replacement.
The outpatient implant reduces joint forces by over 30% and allows unrestricted weight-bearing and activity postoperatively.
- Joseph Greschner, DPM, opens new private foot and ankle practice in Morgantown, W.Va.: Dr. Greschner launched his practice on Dec. 1, offering evaluation, treatment and surgical care for trauma, sports injuries, deformity correction and reconstructive foot and ankle conditions. He previously practiced at Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates in Morgantown.
