Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses.
Next week’s question: What are the pros and cons of hiring physician extenders, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners?
Please send responses to Anuja Vaidya at avaidya@beckershealthcare.com by Wednesday, Aug. 8, at 5 p.m. CST.
Question: Do you have any hobbies that inform your surgical practice, such as art or athletics?
Dr. Brian Gantwerker: Working on our house is a pleasure of mine. We recently demoed [the process of making] an old TV cabinet into a dry bar. Working with different tools and materials helps you understand the physical behavior and anticipate potential problems with complex problems. Thinking through a project is like planning a surgery, it makes one run through a simulation in your mind and prepares you for decisions and how a situation dovetails.
More articles on spine:
Magnetic nanoparticles target spinal cord tumors in proof-of-concept study: 5 things to know
Neurosurgeon joins Advocate Brain & Spine Institute as director of cerebrovascular program: 5 takeaways
Canadian surgeon performs 1st ApiFix scoliosis surgery in North America: 4 key insights
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.