The volume of outpatient spine surgeries and spine-focused surgery centers has grown tremendously over the last five years as less invasive procedures and advanced pain management allow patients to return home more quickly after surgery.

Researchers from the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network found that a clinical prediction rule can be used to identify neck injuries in children and reduce the need for imaging.

A study published in the June 2024 issue of The Spine Journal found cervical disc implant design can affect the patient's range of motion postoperatively.

Policy remains top of mind among spine surgeons, and for some it's a primary source of concern.

James Nnaji, who was a draft pick for the Charlotte Hornets, had lumbar spine surgery, Sports Illustrated reported June 5.

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a machine learning method to better predict recovery from lumbar spine surgery.

A Class I recall has been issued for Medtronic's StealthStation System with StealthStation Cranial software, which is used for locating anatomical structures during neurosurgery.

Some spine surgeons are involved with devicemakers to support and develop new technologies. 

At the end of April, the Federal Trade Commission took steps to ban noncompete clauses for most U.S. workers. Since then, the ban has faced challenges from a number of organizations and feedback from surgeons nationwide. As it stands, the rule is set to take effect for healthcare providers June 1, 2025.

Spinal decompression on its own is more cost-effective than the procedure combined with spinal fusion in patients with lumbar stenosis with associated degenerative spondylolisthesis, according to a study in the June 15 issue of Spine.

Settlements were reached in four spine-related federal cases and a patient lawsuit in May.

Tony Tannoury, MD, will pay $200,000 to resolve accusations he violated the Anti-Kickback Statute and the False Claims Act over alleged kickbacks from DePuy Synthes.

The American Spine Registry is collaborating with Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association for patient data sharing.

Becker's reported on two neurosurgeons who were honored during the month of May.

Here are four spine surgeons who have moved to new groups or added to their titles in May.

Carbondale-based Southern Illinois Healthcare Brain and Spine Institute has earned a $50,000 technology grant, according to a May 29 report from the Southern Illinoisan.

As spine surgeons grow in their career, their teaching methods have also changed with time. 

Spine device manufacturer Innovasis and two of its senior executives have agreed to pay $12 million to resolve false claim act allegations. 

Spinal Simplicity and inFormed Consent partnered for patient education, according to a May 29 news release.

Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion is associated with increased opioid usage, according to a study published in the June 15 edition of Spine.