The 34 leaders featured in this article are speaking at Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, set for June 18 to 22, 2025 at the Swissotel Chicago.
If you would like to join the event as a speaker, please contact Rosie Talaga at rtalaga@beckershealthcare.com.
As part of an ongoing series, Becker’s is connecting with healthcare leaders who will speak at the event to get their insight on thought-provoking questions within the industry. The following are answers from event speakers, lightly edited for clarity.
Question: What’s been the most exciting innovation in spine and orthopedics this past year?
Eric Anderson, MD. Co-Founder of Advanced Pain Institute of Texas (Lewisville): For our practice, Sacroiliac (SI) fusion has emerged as a groundbreaking innovation in spine and orthopedics over the past year, primarily due to advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques and cutting-edge technology. Moreover, the ability to do office-based SI fusion procedures showcases a shift towards outpatient care. This allows patients to undergo the procedure safely with minimal sedation, which minimizes anesthesia risks and promotes a quicker recovery. These innovations not only address the growing demand for effective treatments for chronic lower back pain, but also reflect a broader trend towards enhancing patient safety and reducing healthcare costs in orthopedic practices.
Caleb Ashmore. Orthopedic Rehab Services Supervisor at Harris Health System (Bellaire, Texas): When it comes to innovative treatments of orthopedic conditions and spine in the PT world, the best PTs are using spinal stabilization exercises and building load tolerance in the tissues of the core musculature. Teaching patients how to maintain and stabilize their spine in a fairly neutral alignment is typically a great place to start. Once this position is able to be maintained for longer periods of time, load is then added to the extremities and proper lifting form is essential. Gradually, the patient can be challenged to stabilize their spine with more complex movements that take the patient out of the neutral spine alignment and into more challenging and dynamic positions. At this point, the patient is ready to work on returning to sport or to another challenging physical activity, depending on the patient’s desired goal.
Brian Bizub. CEO of Raleigh (N.C.) Orthopaedic Clinic: Since I am not an orthopedic surgeon, my answer aligns more closely with the significant shift towards patient-centered care, including patient education and engagement, as well as non-opioid pain management and tracking patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMS) in spine and orthopedic patients. These areas have become crucial, not only in improving the overall healthcare experience but also in meeting patient expectations, promoting quicker recovery and enhancing long-term outcomes. Still, the major innovations present in orthopedics and spine this past year were robotic-assisted surgery, navigation systems and new approaches with minimally-invasive procedures.
John Brown. Administrative Director at the Musculoskeletal Institute of AdventHealth (Fort Worth): I think the addition of endoscopic surgical technology takes minimally invasive surgical procedures into the ‘ultra minimally invasive’ realm. I believe that, as these techniques continue to be refined, a new era of spine surgery will likely be upon us. Consumers will rest more easily knowing that their spine surgery will be completed as a day surgery, with very little blood loss and much less post-operative pain, and that they will be able to return to a normal activity level much sooner than surgical techniques utilized in the past.
Mohamad Bydon, MD. Neurosurgeon at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.): The most exciting innovation in spine this past year has been the significant advancement of robotic technology for spinal surgery. The robotic approaches are becoming faster, with improved software and increased ability to perform complex tasks, including bone cutting.
Chad Campion, MD. Spine Surgeon at Campbell Clinic Orthopaedics (Germantown, Tenn.): In my opinion, the most exciting innovations in spine in the last year have been in robotics, navigation and artificial intelligence. The advancements with these technologies have allowed for more minimally invasive and efficient surgeries. As these technologies continue to improve and interact with each other, I believe the impact will be exponential.
Janet L. Carlson, MSN, BSN, RN. Executive Director of Ambulatory Surgery Centers at Commonwealth Pain & Spine (Louisville Ky.): The innovations that I believe are noteworthy:
- Barricaid: a bone-anchored implant to reduce the risk of reherniation and reoperation after a discectomy.
- SIJF: to help patients who are often misdiagnosed with chronic low back pain.
- Increased adoption of endoscopic spine surgery.
Talha Cheema. Business Operations Manager at the Marcus Neuroscience Institute of Baptist Health South Florida (Boca Raton): I think the most exciting thing for spine and orthopedics surgery has been the use of augmented reality. The use of AR has allowed for better pre-surgery planning, better patient visualization and enhanced precision and knowledge in the OR. AR also promises to be more cost effective than the current navigation devices, which allows smaller spine or orthopedic programs to adopt them more easily.
Boyle Cheng, PhD. Orthopedic Spine Surgeon at UPMC Presbyterian (Pittsburgh): Orthobiologics and fixation hardware have been interesting new developments across all orthopedic subspecialties.
Deborah Lee Crook, RN. CEO of Rush Oak Brook (Ill.) Surgery Center: The most exciting innovation is the increase in endoscopic spine surgery. The enhanced minimally invasive approach limits unnecessary exposure and allows for minimal disruption to surrounding tissue, which translates to lower risks of complication and ease of recovery for the patient. Unlike robotics, it is relatively cost-neutral in an ASC.
Harel Deutsch, MD. Co-director at Rush Spine Center of Rush University Medical Center (Chicago): I am excited about the recent FDA approval of the Total Posterior Spinal (TOPS) Arthroplasty Systems for Dynamic Stability. Previously, artificial discs were only appropriate for younger patients, but TOPS will allow surgeons to offer motion preservation lumbar surgery for an older patient cohort.
Braxton Ernest, MD. Neurosurgeon at Vail (Colo.) Summit Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery: The most exciting innovation for spine has been the rise of Ambulatory Surgery Centers. The trend toward ASCs for spine surgery has been growing steadily in recent years, and this shift is accelerating as patients and spine surgeons seek more efficient, cost-effective and convenient options for spinal procedures. Over the past few years, Medicare has broadened the types of spine surgeries covered by ASCs, including more complex procedures like cervical fusion and disc replacements. As minimally invasive techniques, computer assisted surgery and improved ERAS protocols evolve, the trend toward performing spine surgery in ASCs will continue to grow.
Andrew Fanous, MD. Section Chief of Neurosurgery at Inova Alexandria (Va.) Hospital: The most exciting innovation in spine this past year is the use of augmented reality in spine surgery. The ability to preplan the case and virtually visualize the trajectory of a screw or the margins of a spine tumor greatly enhance the precision, safety and efficiency of the procedure. This increases our ability to extend minimally invasive surgeries to more pathologies, resulting in fewer complications and quicker recovery for the patient.
Lee Fleisher, MD. Professor Emeritus and Former Chair of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania; Attending Anesthesiologist at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia): From my perspective, the development of new modalities to do remote physical therapy and remote patient monitoring will improve outcomes for patients. It will allow them to stay at home during recovery. Importantly, it will allow for the earlier detection of problems. With AI, this will become even more prevalent.
Brian Gantwerker, MD. Spine Surgeon and Neurosurgeon at The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: By far, the most exciting innovation I have seen in spine so far are the advances made in spinal arthroplasty and endoscopy. Both represent paradigm-shifting technology that helps move patients out of the hospital more quickly, can shift cases to ASCs and greatly reduce the need for postoperative narcotics. I see a trend moving toward fewer future surgeries: more so with arthroplasty, but endoscopy might bear out the same. There need to be more long-term studies done and longer postoperative care periods completed.
Kate Gillespie, BSN, RN. Vice President of MSK and Neuroscience, Virtua Health (Marlton, N.J.): Innovation in spine and orthopedics is not only exciting technology, but it benefits the patient and surgeon. Minimally invasive techniques combined with improved efficiency is a win-win for the patient and surgeon. Limiting the physical endurance on the surgeon decreases the length of procedure in some cases, which improves OR efficiency. Though many think it is a great marketing tool, I would caution others that marketing should not be the sole reason to move forward with technology.
Sean Gipson. Division Chief Executive Officer and President of Remedy Surgery Centers (Fort Worth):
1. Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery: The key advancement this year is the integration of real-time imaging. This allows surgeons to see a detailed, 3D view of the spine during the operation, which dramatically reduces the risk of errors and improves patient outcomes.
2. AI-Driven Surgical Planning and Patient Monitoring: AI-based platforms can analyze a patient’s radiographic images to generate customized surgical plans and predict complications based on their anatomy and medical history. Furthermore, AI-powered wearable devices are being used in post-surgery to track patient recovery in real-time.
3. Biologic Innovations for Spinal Disc Repair: We are seeing advancements in stem cell therapy and growth factor injections that promote spinal disc regeneration and repair. Companies are developing injectable materials that mimic the structure and function of healthy spinal discs, aiming to reduce the need for invasive spinal fusion procedures.
4. 3D-Printed Implants: While 3D printing in orthopedics is not new, the sophistication has reached new heights in 2024. It allows for the creation of patient-specific spinal implants that perfectly match an individual’s anatomy, enhancing the fit and performance of devices like interbody fusion cages and vertebral body replacements.
5. Wearable Exoskeletons and Robotics for Spinal Cord Injury: For spinal cord injury (SCI) patients, we’re seeing devices that are not only more lightweight and user-friendly, but they also incorporate AI to provide more adaptive and personalized rehabilitation.
Leslie Jebson. Administrator at The Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Network of Prisma Health (Greenville, S.C.): The surgical innovations in spine and orthopedics, from robotic assistance to minimally invasive surgical techniques, largely speak for themselves. I think the most exciting innovations are in front of us, and that includes cutting-edge advancements from imaging to artificial intelligence. AI will help with administrative burden, which ranges from surgical procedure scheduling to precertification-prior authorization automation.
James Larson, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon at Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics – Bone and Joint Specialists of Winchester (Va.) Division: In my opinion, the most exciting innovation in orthopedics this year has been the new structural tissue growth matrices. Whether it’s collagen implants for tendon restoration or coral calcium implants to restore bone and cartilage, the future of joint preservation is looking better all the time.
Ed Ledesma, Chief Executive Officer, 360 Orthopedics (Sarasota, Fla.): For our organization, it would have to be leveraging AI and developing a concierge customer experience. All practices realize that fighting for higher reimbursement is not a sustainable path, but maximizing data, information and ways to drive better outcomes and efficiencies is the path to sustainability. This may include ambient listening software for consultations and documentation or data mining for patterns across specialties, payers and clinic flow. Another area we have focused on, and seen positive results from, is designing concierge patient experience initiatives. These initiatives include assigning patients a personal doctor assistant or therapy consultant and implementing a VIP line or email to improve access and throughput.
Jeff Lehmen, MD. Spine Surgeon at SSM Health Spine Surgery Center (Jefferson City, Mo.): The most exciting recent development this year in spine is the advent of porous peek interbody for the ALIF procedure. It has been used for the last several years in ACDF and lateral lumbar interbody, but it hasn’t been available for anterior lumbar procedures. To date, modulus titanium has been a popular choice for ALIF but it’s not without its complications and shortcomings. Porous peek is the best of both worlds, and it will be a game changer.
Michael C. Lewis, MD. Joseph L. Ponka Chair of Anesthesiology, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine Department at Henry Ford Health System (Detroit), Professor and Chair at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine (East Lansing) and Anesthesiology Professor at Wayne State University (Detroit): In anesthesiology, one of the most exciting developments this year has been the rise of advanced regional anesthesia techniques for spine and orthopedic procedures. Ultrasound-guided nerve blocks and targeted spinal anesthesia are reducing reliance on opioids, leading to shorter recovery times, less postoperative pain and fewer complications. These advancements are enhancing patient outcomes and allowing for a more tailored approach to pain management, which is transformative for the field.
L. Pearce McCarty III, MD. Co-Chair of Non-Labor Governance at Allina Health (Minneapolis): The most exciting innovation in orthopedic and spine surgery over the past year is a bit of a toss-up between machine learning and augmented reality, but I favor the integration of functional augmented reality into surgical planning and intraoperative execution. AR provides real-time data visualization of intraoperative anatomy, optimal component positioning and a variety of vital physiological variables. Although refinement is certainly needed and will continue, this ultimately promises to reduce surgical case times, reduce complications and improve the accuracy, precision and reproducibility of reconstructive procedures across a broad spectrum.
Yeshvant A. Navalgund, MD. CMO of National Spine & Pain Centers (North Huntington, Pa.): Over the past year, the integration of AI-driven software into spine and orthopedic care has been particularly transformative. This software is enhancing patient experiences by providing personalized treatment plans, predicting surgical outcomes and optimizing rehabilitation protocols. For example, AI-driven software algorithms can analyze patient data to forecast recovery trajectories, enabling more tailored postoperative care. Additionally, AI-driven imaging tools assist surgeons in achieving greater precision during procedures, which improves patient outcomes. This advancement not only elevates the quality of care but also fosters a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare delivery.
David Negron. Senior Director of Operations and Logistics at Hospital for Special Surgery (New York City): The most exciting innovation in spine and orthopedics this year has been the emergence of augmented reality helmet navigation for posterior lumbar fusion procedures. The AR helmets carry a small footprint, relative to robotic navigation platforms, while offering a more cost effective alternative.
Renee Oliveira. Chief Marketing Officer of New Century Spine Outpatient Center at Integrated Medical Care (Paramus, N.J.):
1. Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques: The adoption of endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) has transformed spinal surgeries, leading to reduced tissue damage, quicker recovery times, and minimized postoperative pain.
2. Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery: The integration of robotics into spine surgery has enhanced precision and safety. More systems have received FDA clearance and are being used to assist surgeons in accurately placing implants, thereby improving surgical outcomes.
3. Motion-Preserving Implants: The FDA’s approval of the TOPS System offers a significant alternative to traditional spinal fusion. This implant stabilizes the spine while preserving its natural range of motion, providing patients with improved flexibility and reduced recovery times.
4. Advanced Imaging and Navigation Systems: Innovations in imaging, such as augmented reality and enhanced navigation systems, have improved the accuracy of spinal procedures. These technologies allow surgeons to visualize complex spinal anatomies in real-time, facilitating precise interventions and reducing the risk of complications.
5. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: The application of AI and machine learning in orthopedics has led to the development of predictive models for patient outcomes and personalized treatment plans. These technologies assist in diagnosing conditions, planning surgeries and optimizing postoperative care, thereby enhancing overall patient management.
Daryl Osbahr, MD. Managing Partner and Chief of Orthopaedic Surgery at Rothman Orthopaedics Florida; Chairman and Executive Medical Director of AdventHealth Orthopedic Institute (Orlando): In my view, the most transformative innovation in orthopedics and spine surgery this year has been the integration of AI into healthcare systems. With costs rising in musculoskeletal medicine without proportional revenue increases, leveraging AI to boost value — by lowering costs and enhancing care quality — has become critical. By optimizing access, automating revenue cycle management and improving resource utilization, AI technologies are helping to streamline surgical workflows and elevate patient care. Our private practice and hospital partners have successfully implemented several AI-driven solutions, reducing costs while improving patient care within the communities we serve.
Peter Passias, MD. Professor at Duke School of Medicine and Associate Chief of Spinal Surgery of Departments of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery at Duke University Hospital (Durham, N.C.): There have been so many innovations in spine in the past year. The emergence of AI-based models in spine surgery is our greatest promise presently. This is in the inception phase, but it has allowed us to plan for surgeries using advanced algorithms that predict our likelihood of success, the consequences for our actions and the ability of our executed plan to achieve our goals. Additionally, advancements in intra-operative technology have made the execution of these plans in a reproducible and safe manner more achievable. The future is filled with excitement and room for studying and developing the numerous AI applications in spine.
John Peloza, MD. Orthopedic Spine Surgeon at Midwest Orthopedic and Spine (Chesterfield, Mo.): The most exciting innovation in spine and orthopedic surgery this year is the ability to perform more complex cases in ambulatory surgery centers. This advancement is largely attributed to improved minimally invasive technologies and techniques. Significant progress in implants, biologics, retractor systems, endoscopics, intra operative imaging, navigation, augmented reality and robotics has made surgeries less destructive to tissue and less painful for patients. Additionally, advancements in anesthetic techniques and protocols help minimize post-operative pain, allowing patients to leave the ASC in a comfortably predictable condition.
Adamina Podraza, MD. Anesthesiologist at Anesthesia Consultants of Morris and Medical Director at Deerpath Ambulatory Surgical Center (Ill.): The most exciting innovation this past year has been moving total shoulder replacements to ambulatory surgical centers.
Ken Rich, MD. President of Raleigh (N.C.) Neurosurgical Clinic: I think as image guidance becomes more feasible in ambulatory surgery centers, more surgeons will be willing to incorporate larger operations like 360° lumbar fusions. Additionally, I think our pain doctors are frequently bringing new procedures to the ASC.
Thomas Schuler, MD. Spine Surgeon and Founder of Virginia Spine Institute (Reston) and Chairman of the National Spine Health Foundation: Using one’s own biology to heal injured discs and ligaments is what excites me the most. We have been advancing the use of bone marrow concentrate to avoid surgery for select patients and, or disc levels. Artificial discs are a great way to avoid fusion while treating compressive pathology or symptomatic disc pathology, but the ultimate motion preservation is regenerative treatment with the patient’s own biology. Select patients may benefit from fusion at one level, arthroplasty at another and regenerative at a third to get optimal short term and long term results. We must advance our treatment paradigm to get patients the best result for each individual’s problem.
Katherine Wagner, MD. Neurosurgeon at Ventura (Calif.) Neurosurgery: There have been some exciting advances in neuronavigation and motion preservation. The Bolt system, for instance, is very compact, making it easy to trial and adapt to smaller operating rooms and ASCs. In terms of motion preservation, the TOPS device will likely gain popularity as a way to avoid fusion procedures for select patients.
Connie Wilson, RN. Director of Patient Care Services and Nurse Executive Administration at Shriners Children’s Hospital Lexington (Ky.): One of the most transformative developments has been the progress in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) techniques, particularly the integration of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality (AR). These innovations are contributing to a shift toward less invasive, more personalized and highly precise treatments for spinal conditions, which is leading to quicker recoveries, fewer complications and better overall patient outcomes. The convergence of robotics, AI and advanced imaging is probably the most exciting aspect of orthopedic innovation right now, with the potential to significantly reshape the landscape of spine surgery.
Albert Wong, MD. Director, Spine Surgery, DOCS Health; Neurosurgeon, Cedars Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles): The most exciting innovation in spine surgery is the advancement of endoscopic surgical techniques. This allows us to perform our standard spine surgeries to decompress and/or fuse the spine, while using a minimally invasive approach with an incision of typically about 7 mm. This has opened new avenues to treat common problems without the typical post surgery side effects or complications.
