The International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery named Jack Zigler, MD, president for 2019-20.
"My objective during my presidency is to re-energize ISASS and bring it back to its roots in providing a forum for new technologies to be discussed and debated by international surgeons and scientists," said Dr. Zigler, co-director of the Center for Disc Replacement at Plano-based Texas Back Institute. "I also want to strengthen the relationship with industry so that we are both providing support to the common goal of improving our patients' lives."
The organization's forum has fostered discussion on minimally invasive techniques, robotics and navigation, and biologic interventions.
ISASS has more than 3,000 members in 78 countries. The organization publishes the International Journal of Spine Surgery and advocates for patients' rights. The organization also publishes position papers that provide guidance to payers on policy decisions related to new technologies, such as disc replacement.
Dr. Zigler is a past president of the American Spinal Injury Association and has served on the ISASS board of directors in the past. He was instrumental in bringing artificial disc replacement to the U.S.
During his tenure as president, Dr. Zigler hopes to continue the organization's tradition of leadership and innovation. "I would like to position ISASS over the next five years so that it becomes the 'go-to' society for those working to improve the lives of patients with degenerative spine conditions by the best possible surgical treatment," he said.
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