Here are five spine practices to know: 

From new imaging systems to pedicle screw technology, Becker's reported on five spine technology debuts since April 21:

An increasing number of physicians are exiting private practice to join hospitals or other corporate entities, leaving just 26 percent of physicians as independent practitioners in 2022, according to an April report from Avalere.

Robert Watkins IV, MD, operated on Las Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone, the team said May 19.

Fighting for the approval of minimally invasive alternatives to spinal fusion; non-surgeons performing certain spine procedures; and insurers too often dictating care decisions are some of the biggest threats to spine surgeons today, three specialists told Becker's.

From milestone surgeries to emerging data and ongoing challenges, here is how artificial disc technology has developed in the last several decades:

A spine surgery patient will not be on the hook for a $229,112 medical bill at Westminster-based St. Anthony North Health Campus, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled May 16.

Healthgrades honored 16 hospitals across four states with its 2022 Spine Surgery State Ranking Award.

Cleveland Clinic Weston (Fla.) Hospital added neurosurgeon Dr. Hoon Choi, PhD.

Here are seven practices and health systems looking for spine surgeons using LinkedIn's job search tool:

Neurosurgeon Steven Falowski, MD, was named as a strategic adviser to SynerFuse, a company focused on treating chronic lower back pain.

The Brooklyn Nets had two of its athletes undergo orthopedic surgeries in May.

A new spine leader at a children's hospital and nine more spine surgeons to know:

New York City-based NewYork-Presbyterian received a $50 million donation to expand its Och Spine program.

As private equity attracts many spine and orthopedic practices, there are still questions left unanswered about the long-term viability of investments.

Michael Kelly, MD, joined Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego as director of scoliosis and spinal deformities.

Neurosurgeon Alan Boulos, MD, was named dean of Albany (N.Y.) Medical College.

A judge dismissed a lawsuit alleging Anthem wrongfully denied coverage of a spinal device.

Robert Watkins IV, MD, on May 5 performed spine surgery on Brooklyn Nets forward Ben Simmons at Cedars-Sinai Marina Del Rey Hospital in Los Angeles, according to the NBA.

Retail giants such as Walmart and CVS Health are continuing their push into healthcare, offering cost-friendly and convenient care close to patients' homes, and more providers are taking notice.