Three spine surgeons discuss the best-kept secrets in their industry.
Note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity.
Question: What is the best kept secret in the spine industry?
Joseph Ferguson, MD. MedStar Health (Washington, D.C.) I don't know if there's any big secrets out there. I think the best kept secret is just that tried and true methods are still out there, even though we're trying to revolutionize spine surgery in general. We tried minimally invasive, and now we're trying endoscopic. But the actual surgery itself — stabilization for instability or decompression for neurologic compression is the biggest thing that we have to take into account anytime we do a surgery. The methods may have changed, but the actual procedure and the actual goals of the surgery still need to be accomplished.
Brian Fiani, DO. Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedic & Spine Specialists (West Bloomfield, Mich.): The best kept secret in the spine industry is regenerative medicine. This innovative approach uses the body's own natural healing mechanisms to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. From treating degenerative spine disorders to traumatic injuries, regenerative medicine offers a promising alternative to surgery for many patients. Its potential to revolutionize healthcare is still being explored, but it's definitely something to keep an eye on!
William Taylor, MD. University of California San Diego Health: Although biased, I think the approach to lateral in the prone position and PTP is a significant step forward. I also continue to be surprised that we have not advanced our Intercal treatments to the point where they are in routine use.