New York City-based Hospital for Special Surgery named spine surgeon Frank Schwab, MD, vice chair of the HSS Innovation Institute.
Four things to know:
1. The HSS Innovation Institute is the health system's commercialization arm for new ideas within the musculoskeletal field. It supports products and solutions to improve patients' lives.
2. Dr. Schwab is responsible for advancing the institute's culture of innovation and bridging the gap between clinician scientists, industry partners and the Innovation Institute in his new role. The institute includes engineers, business analysts, lawyers and other industry experts in product development and entrepreneurial activities.
3. Prior to taking on his new role, Dr. Schwab was chief emeritus of HSS' spine service line. He also founded Nemaris, a company that developed dedicated spine measurement and surgical planning software. The company recently merged with a global industry partner.
4. During his successful career as a spine surgeon, Dr. Schwab has served on the board of the Scoliosis Research Society and International Spine Study Group. He also published more than 200 original and review articles.
"Trust and value creation are key components of success," said Dr. Schwab. "My goal is to further develop an environment where innovators trust and understand the value and expertise that the HSS Innovation Institute brings to the table. We are not just a tech transfer department, but an enthusiastic team that will guide them through the patient regulatory and prototyping process to become commercially successful."