The Spine Pod

Founder Series Pt 2: A 20-Year Journey to Make Motion Preservation the New Standard in Spine, Scott Hodges, DO

Ep 17 Founder Series Pt 2: A 20-Year Journey to Make Motion Preservation the New Standard in Spine, Scott Hodges, DO
 
In Part 2 of our Founder Series, co-hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with fellowship-trained, orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Scott Hodges. Well known by several titles, including Medical Director at 3Spine, co-inventor of MOTUS, and leading advocate for motion preservation in spine surgery, Dr. Hodges shares his behind-the-scenes journey to bringing motion preservation to the forefront of spine care. His enthralling story includes the more than 20-year process of bringing a novel spine implant to market- from initial sketch drawings and early prototypes to clinical trials in South Africa and the U.S. 
 Dr. Hodges’ journey began at Southern Adventist University in his current hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, followed by medical school at Kansas City University, residency at Ohio University, and his fellowship in spine surgery at Loyola University Chicago School of Medicine. He went on to build a thriving surgical practice in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and it was here that the idea to improve upon the current standard of care for spine patients was formed and flourished.
 Dissatisfied with the available technologies and long-term patient outcomes in spine, Dr. Hodges dedicated his career to creating a solution. With an aim for creating a better treatment for spine surgery patients, Dr. Hodges partnered with Dr. Craig Humphreys to co-develop MOTUS, the first total joint replacement for the lumbar spine. Their goal was to create an implant that restored function in the lumbar spine and the entire kinetic chain, without sacrificing the body's natural motion. With this new endeavor, Dr. Hodges shifted his focus entirely to bringing these solutions to patients, navigating the complex world of medical device development, and leading surgeon education for this novel approach to spine care.
 
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The road to innovation: What it takes to develop, refine, and clinically validate a motion-preserving device.
What’s next for spine surgery: How motion preservation, total joint replacement, facet replacements, and endoscopic techniques are shaping the future of spine care for patients struggling with chronic leg and/or back pain.
The origins of MOTUS: How a simple concept became the first lumbar total joint replacement.
Patient demand as a driver of care: How patient demand is driving new technologies to the forefront of surgical care.
The importance of the kinetic chain: Why motion in all areas of the body is important and how the different joints in the body - knees, hips, ankles, and spine - work together to allow the body to properly function.
Why training & education matter: How surgeon training and patient education play a pivotal role in the adoption and access of new technologies for spine care.
 
This episode, recorded between the 3Spine headquarters in Chattanooga, TN and the world-renowned MERI Lab in Memphis, takes you inside the decades-long journey of bringing a new spine device to market, from the first clinical cases in South Africa to FDA trials in the U.S. As a pioneer, innovator, teacher, and leader, Dr. Hodges shares his compelling story of how data, surgeon training, and patient demand for motion preserving devices are driving the future of spine surgery.
 
This episode is a must-watch for spine surgeons, medical innovators, and anyone interested in the future of spine surgery and the journey of bringing a new device to the market.
 
Missed Part 1? Watch our interview with Dr. Craig Humphreys for the full Founder Series! 
 
Note: The MOTUS device is currently in the data collection phase of a US IDE FDA Trial and is not available for commercial use at the time of recording. To keep up with the progress of the trial, you can visit www.3Spine.com.
 
Learn more about Dr. Hodges: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-hodges-b7b036122/
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube:    / @thespinepod  
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?..⁠.
 
The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.
 

Founder Series Pt 1: A Lifetime of Spine Surgery, Motion Advocacy & Giving Back, Craig Humphreys, MD

Ep 16 Founder Series Pt 1: A Lifetime of Spine Surgery, Motion Advocacy & Giving Back, Craig Humphreys, MD
 
In this first episode of our two-part Founder Series, co-hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. Craig Humphreys, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, innovator, and pioneer in spine surgery, to discuss the evolution of motion preservation and the rewarding journey behind MOTUS—the first lumbar total joint replacement for the low back. From his early career in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to building a transformative spine practice in Soldotna, Alaska, Dr. Humphreys shares the journey of how he co-developed MOTUS (formerly the Kenai Device) with Dr. Scott Hodges. Their story began as a mission to offer patients a motion-preserving alternative to spinal fusion and culminated in the creation of a novel device aimed at restoring natural balance, maintaining motion, and preserving adjacent spinal levels. 
 For this episode, we had the opportunity to travel to Soldotna, Alaska and sit down with Dr. Humphreys in his home, situated on the Kenai River—the very place that inspired the original Kenai implant (now known as MOTUS). During our visit, Dr. Humphreys shares how a 3 a.m. epiphany and a hand-drawn sketch led to a breakthrough medical device, his struggles and triumphs in navigating the medical device industry, and why he believes motion preservation is the future of spine surgery.
 Although Dr. Humphreys is native to Alaska, he started his medical education journey in the Midwest - graduating from the University of Notre Dame, receiving his medical degree at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, and completing his spine fellowship at The Medical College of Wisconsin. With over 25 years of experience, he has treated thousands of patients, contributed to major clinical advancements, and played a pivotal role in bringing motion preservation to the forefront of spine surgery. He has been instrumental in shaping the future of motion-preserving spine surgery, advocating for better long-term patient outcomes, and partaking in groundbreaking clinical trials. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The reality of developing a medical device: Why bringing new technology to market takes decades.
The evolution of spine care: Why the shift to motion preservation matters and is gaining momentum.
The origins of MOTUS - the first lumbar total joint replacement: How a simple idea turned into a breakthrough device.
The fight to change the standard of care: Why motion preservation is facing the same uphill battle as total hip and knee replacements once did.
The availability of new technology: How new advancements are providing alternatives to spinal fusion for patients struggling with leg and/or back pain.
A lifetime of impact: His philanthropic work through the Carolyn Jane Foundation, bringing critical pediatric spine care to Africa.
 
Beyond his contributions to spine care in Alaska, Dr. Humphreys and his wife, Julie Humphreys, RN, are deeply committed to philanthropy and global healthcare access. Through the Carolyn Jane Foundation, they provide life-changing scoliosis surgeries to children in underserved regions of Africa, ensuring that spine care is accessible to those who need it most. Their work has helped countless families, and their commitment to service is just as impactful as their innovations in spine surgery.
 This episode is Part 1 of a 2-Part Founder Series. Check out Part 2 with Dr. Scott Hodges, where we go even deeper into the promise of motion preservation and patient outcomes! https://youtu.be/F8mdFKVf_2I  
 Note: The MOTUS device is currently in the data collection phase of a US IDE FDA Trial and is not available for commercial use at the time of recording. To keep up with the progress of the trial, you can visit www.3Spine.com.
 
Learn more about Dr. Humphreys and The Carolyn Jane Foundation:
LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-humphreys-md-87a8b234/ 
Dr. Humphreys Practice: https://spine.cpgh.org/
Carolyn Jane Foundation: https://carolynjane.org/
Cure Kenya Website: https://kenya.cure.org/ 
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube:    / @thespinepod  
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?..⁠.
The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.
 

From Ideas to Action: How Spine Surgery is Evolving for Better Patient Outcomes, Lali Sekhon, MD

Ep. 15 From Ideas to Action: How Spine Surgery is Evolving for Better Patient Outcomes, Lali Sekhon, MD
 
Welcome to Season 2 of the Spine Pod! In this episode of The Spine Pod, hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. Lali Sekhon, a neurosurgeon dedicated to improving patient outcomes through patient-centric treatment options. Operating out of Reno, NV at the Reno Orthopedic Center, Dr. Sekhon is driving the future of spine care forward by utilizing the most cutting-edge technologies and surgical approaches. Aside from his commitment to surgical solutions, Dr. Sekhon founded the non-profit ThinkFirst of Northern Nevada, aimed at educating communities and organizations on promoting preventative safety and the impact of traumatic brain injury. Dr. Sekhon also proves his commitment to improving patient outcomes through research and clinical trials, including numerous publications surrounding early-stage motion-preserving technologies, which have helped the spine industry better understand cervical implant orientation, placement, and the importance of patient specificity.
 
In this episode, Dr. Sekhon delves into the complex world of spine care and opens up about the challenges surgeons face when balancing long-term patient outcomes with the demands of modern healthcare systems. Dr. Sekhon also explores one of the largest problems facing postoperative spine patients - adjacent segment disease - and how SpinePoint, his stiffness-reduced implant company, is working on solving that problem. He goes on to discuss the evolution of spine surgery techniques, exploring how tools like navigation and robotics are redefining precision and patient safety in the operating room. With a career that spans from groundbreaking motion preservation work to innovations in implant design and multi-speciality care models, Dr. Sekhon provides deep expertise and novel insights on the most pressing issues currently facing spine care. 
 
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why surgery centers are gaining popularity for specific patients and fueling the push for more outpatient surgery options.
The different biomechanics and genetic components driving adjacent segment disease and how we can begin to go about protecting adjacent levels after spine surgery.
Why stiffness in the spine matters and what Dr. Sekhon is doing to solve that problem with innovative implant options. 
How integrated, multi-disciplinary care teams can provide a more comprehensive approach to treating back and/or leg pain for spine patients.
The importance of enabling technologies and how they are coalescing to provide new alternatives to patients.
 
As a surgeon known by many titles - innovator, hockey fan, father, husband, and leader across the spine industry, Dr. Sekhon is paving the way for the next generation of spine surgeons, focused on providing the novel technologies and treatment options for all patients he treats. As a prominent advocate and educator across the community, Dr. Sekhon provides a breadth of knowledge for surgeons, patients, and industry personnel in this enlightening episode of The Spine Pod.
 
Learn more about Dr. Lali and ROC:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalisekhon/ 
Dr. Lali's Website: https://lalisekhonmd.com/ 
ROC: https://www.renoortho.com/ 
ThinkFirst of Northern Nevada: https://www.thinkfirstnevada.org/ 
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
 

The Hip-Spine Connection: What Every Patient & Surgeon Needs to Know, Russell Bodner, MD

Ep 14 The Hip-Spine Connection: What Every Patient & Surgeon Needs to Know, Russell Bodner, MD
 
In this special episode of The Spine Pod, we break from tradition by welcoming our first sports medicine orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Russell Bodner, a renowned hip-spine expert with over 35 years of experience. Known for his groundbreaking research and contributions to hip and spine biomechanics, Dr. Bodner is advancing a new perspective on how these interconnected systems work together to help the body function properly. 
 
In this episode, Dr. Bodner describes the body as a kinetic linkage system, emphasizing the critical importance of treating patients as an interconnected system rather than component parts. From understanding the complex relationship between hip replacements and spinal motion to tackling challenges like acetabular cup placement, Dr. Bodner shares his research insights that bridge the gap between the specialties of hip and spine care. This episode also takes a deep dive into cutting-edge advancements in hip and spine treatment that are driving better patient outcomes, including preoperative analysis, surgical planning, and personalized treatment options.
 
In this episode you’ll learn:
How the body functions as a kinetic linkage system; understanding hip and spine biomechanics is essential for effective treatment.
The importance of evaluating spinopelvic parameters and utilizing surgical planning tools to treat hip-spine patients.
How spinal stiffness and sagittal malalignment can negatively impact hip function and contribute to accelerated degeneration in a native hip and increased dislocation rates for patients with total hip arthroplasty (THA).
The age-related changes in biomechanics that occur through the hip-spine junction, highlighting the need for tailored treatment options.
Why adjacent segment disease (ASD) is not a pathology exclusive to spine, but is starting to be termed for concomitant hip-spine conditions.
The importance of preoperative planning and proper analysis in achieving the best long-term patient outcomes.
Why multi-plane imaging is necessary for both hip and spine surgeons to better treat patient pathology.
Why collaboration between hip and spine specialists is crucial to addressing complex cases and advancing orthopedic care.
 
Dr. Bodner’s pioneering work is an amalgamation of some of the foremost thought leaders in orthopedics, including Dr. Richard Steadman of Steadman Clinic in Vail, and Dr. Richard Rothman of Rothman Orthopedics, and Dr. Larry Door. Combining this knowledge with the artist and engineer mindsets of his parents, Dr. Bodner’s 35 years of dedicated research is revolutionizing the way we look at hip and spine care and advancing the future of orthopedics. 
 
Whether you’re a spine surgeon, hip specialist, or patient searching for answers surrounding concomitant leg, hip, and/or back pain, this episode provides invaluable knowledge about how motion-preserving solutions and innovative planning can transform patient outcomes for the future.
 
Learn more about Dr. Bodner
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-bodner-505496161/ 
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8vODr8pDabWImOrHv3ZQ 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
 
 

Teaching the Future of Spine: Research, Motion Preservation, & Improving Care, Jeffrey A. Goldstein, MD

Ep. 13 Teaching the Future of Spine: Research, Motion Preservation, & Improving Care, Jeffrey A. Goldstein, MD
 
In this episode of The Spine Pod, co-hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. Jeffrey A. Goldstein, a globally recognized expert in orthopedic spine surgery and Director of the Spine Surgery Fellowship and Education programs at NYU Langone. With over 30 years of clinical and research experience, Dr. Goldstein is a staunch advocate for conservative, patient-first treatment plans. His patient-centered philosophy focuses on functional outcomes and prioritizing long-term health of every patient he treats.
 
Dr. Goldstein also discusses his commitment to ongoing innovation, especially in the area of motion preservation. Dedicated to advancing the field, he takes on a dual role as a pioneer in new technologies and a teacher, training residents and fellows in the latest techniques to carry his patient-first legacy forward. He has been a key leader across multiple clinical studies, including being a trainer for both cervical and lumbar artificial discs in the commercialization of ProDisc, as well as being the national PI for 3Spine’s MOTUS Lumbar Total Joint Replacement IDE study. In addition to motion preservation, Dr. Goldstein continues to drive patient-care forward through the use of supplementary emerging technologies, including minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and robotics.
 
In this episode, listeners will learn about:
The history of how spine care has changed over the past 30 years
The entire function spinal unit, and the role of the facets and the disc in the mobility and stability of the spine
How motion preserving technologies are becoming mainstream options for treating leg and/or back pain in the correctly indicated patient
The convergence of enabling technologies, and how MIS, robotics, and motion preserving implants are coming together to improve patient outcomes
The importance of conservative care and exhausting non-operative treatment options prior to receiving spine surgery
Where the future of spine care is headed and the newest technologies entering the spine market
 
 
Dr. Goldstein has been a leading surgeon across the spine industry for more than 20 years, being recognized as a top doctor in America by multiple institutions, including Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Becker’s, and Newsweek. Aside from being recognized by sources and peers, he has also been the past president of ISASS, one of the largest spine conferences in the world, and also holds the title of professor of both orthopedic and neurosurgery at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. With his accolades in teaching, leadership, and innovation, Dr. Goldstein has had a remarkable impact across the spine community since his inception into medicine.
 
This episode explores how Dr. Goldstein’s work has not only shaped his practice but also the broader field of spine surgery, primarily through his dedicated contributions to motion preservation and patient-centered innovations. Whether you’re a provider, patient, or industry professional, this episode provides vast insights into the technologies improving patient outcomes and what’s on the horizon for the future of spine surgery.
 
Learn more about Dr. Goldstein and NYU Langone Health:
Website: https://www.spinesurgerydoctor.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-goldstein-md-facs-faoa-917b5b7/
 
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube: / @thespinepod
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
 
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
 
 

Live At NASS 2024: Motion Preservation, Clinical Trials & Spine Surgery Innovations You Need to Know

Join hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf for a special live episode of The Spine Pod, recorded from the floor of the North American Spine Society (NASS) 2024 conference in Chicago. This episode explores the latest advancements in spine surgery, with conversation spanning the spectrum of motion preservation, navigation, robotics, and minimally invasive surgery (MIS). You’ll get to hear from an array of thought leaders across spine care, both industry experts and surgeons, including Pierce Nunley, MD, Louis Nel, MD, Choll Kim, MD, Avinash Patwardhan, PhD, Ted Bird, and William Lavelle, MD. Join us as we sit down to talk about the complexities of bringing new devices to market, the lessons learned from early motion preservation devices, and the future of patient care in this field.
 
In this episode you’ll learn about:
How motion preservation technologies, including artificial discs, facet replacements, and lumbar total joint replacements, are becoming mainstream as treatment options.
The advancement of enabling technologies, including navigation and robotics, and how they’re gaining interest across the industry.
The importance of collaboration across surgeons, industry, and researchers in driving forward spine surgery. 
The evolution of MIS and endoscopic options and how they will integrate with motion preservation to provide enhanced treatment options.
The importance of clinical trials and data monitoring in order to provide objective outcome metrics to create improvements in spine care.
How more surgeons are opting for motion preserving options over fusion as a first-line treatment method for improving patients’ long-term outcomes.
From enabling technologies to novel implants, this discussion brings you all the latest discussions of innovations in the spine industry. We’ll hear from research experts that have 40+ years in the space, surgeons who have treated patients for more than 30 years, and industry experts that have been on the front lines of multiple product launches with the largest spine companies. Every guest on this episode has one central goal in common - to find better ways to treat leg and back pain and provide better and longer-lasting results for the patients they treat.
Tune in to this special episode to hear about cutting-edge technologies, how these innovations are being applied in spine care, and what surgeons are learning from the latest long-term data. This lively, real-time discussion offers listeners a unique view of the state of the spine industry in 2024.
 
Learn more about this episodes guests:
Pierce Nunley, MD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/piercenunley/ 
Louis Nel, MD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-nel-2919211a2/ 
Choll Kim, MD, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chollkim/ 
Avinash Patwardhan, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avinash-patwardhan-6432bb9/ 
Ted Bird: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedbird/ 
William Lavelle, MD: https://www.upstateorthopedics.com/our-providers/dr-william-lavelle/ 
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

A Spine Surgeon Who Refuses to Quit: A Battle for Better Spine Care, Evalina Burger, MD

Ep. 11 A Spine Surgeon Who Refuses to Quit: A Battle for Better Spine Care, Evalina Burger, MD
 
In this episode of The Spine Pod, hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. Evalina Burger, an orthopedic spine surgeon at the UCHealth Spine Center - Anschutz Medical Campus. Dr. Burger recounts her transformative journey from South Africa to the United States, where she has established herself as a leader and innovator at the forefront of spine care. She goes on to share about her own spinal cord injury and how that has changed her perspective and approach to spine surgery. Dr. Burger specializes in complex spine surgery, deformity and scoliosis, and has also been an outspoken advocate and pioneer for motion-preserving spine implants. She has been an investigator in multiple FDA clinical trials, including the TOPS facet replacement from Premia Spine, showing her commitment to research and improving patient care. With her background and incredible personal journey, Dr. Burger has prioritized patient quality of life and is constantly searching for new ways to improve long-term outcomes for her patients.
 
In this episode you’ll learn:
The importance of new perspectives in order to innovate on currently held treatment methods.
How quality of life (QoL) is becoming the new outcome metric that providers are beginning to evaluate their surgical outcomes.
Where motion preserving spine surgeries fit into the care continuum and how we can begin to give patients longer lasting results.
How spinal fusion has been utilized by surgeons for many decades and how that approach as a primary treatment method is beginning to shift.
The importance of resilience on growth and overcoming hurdles in life; how to create great outcomes from challenging situations.
How the treatment for leg and/or back pain is beginning to change and what new options are becoming available to patients seeking spine care.
 
As someone who dreamed about being a surgeon as a child, Dr. Burger has accomplished that and much more throughout her years in surgery. Currently holding the title of Department Chair of Orthopedics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, she has established herself as a leader and role model within the spine community. Dr. Burger has also contributed more than 95 peer-reviewed journal articles, proving her lasting commitment to research and patient outcomes.
 
Whether you’re a patient, industry professional, or provider, this episode provides a breadth of experience and knowledge that you won’t want to miss.
 
Learn more about Dr. Burger and UCHealth Spine Center - Anschutz Medical Campus:
Website: https://www.uchealth.org/provider/evalina-burger-van-der-walt-md/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evalina-burger-145a7835/
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8vODr8pDabWImOrHv3ZQ 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfV...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98f...
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-th...
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
 

Motion Preservation First: A Spine Surgeon’s Journey to a Fusion-Free Practice, J. Alex Sielatycki, MD

Ep. 10 Motion Preservation First: A Spine Surgeon’s Journey to a Fusion-Free Practice, J. Alex Sielatycki, MD 
 
In this episode of The Spine Pod, hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. Alex Sielatycki, an orthopedic spine surgeon dedicating his career to revolutionizing spine surgery through motion preservation. Operating out of Steamboat Springs, CO at the Steamboat Orthopedic & Spine Institute (SOSI), Dr. Sielatycki is at the forefront of a significant shift in spine care—one that prioritizes preserving mobility and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Sielatycki continually proves his commitment to research through clinical trials, including being a primary investigator in multiple recent trials and also offers multiple FDA-cleared, currently available motion preserving devices, including Medtronic’s Prestige LP cervical disc and Centinel Spine’s prodisc C and prodisc L for cervical and lumbar pathologies.
 
In this episode, Dr. Sielatycki delves into the innovative technologies in spine motion preservation, including 3Spine’s MOTUS lumbar total joint replacement, currently in US clinical trials, explaining how it has the possibility to broaden the scope of motion-preserving options available to patients in search of treatment for leg and back pain. He goes on to discuss the potential of establishing motion surgery centers specifically for spine care patients, where all aspects of care are designed to maintain patient mobility. This concept arose out of increasing demand that Dr. Sielatycki recognized from his patients seeking alternatives to spinal fusion.
 
In this episode you’ll learn:
How motion-preserving alternatives are providing the opportunity to shift the treatment timeline for patients needing spine surgery.
The importance of providing patients with new technologies through novel clinical trials.
How patient demand is influencing surgeons’ desires for new and alternative spine surgery implants.
Patients increased willingness to travel for improved spine surgery treatment options.
The possibility for patients to return to work and regular activity earlier through motion-preserving devices.
The growing number of surgeons looking to create spine surgery practices focused exclusively on motion-preserving alternatives.
 
As a father, husband, surgeon, and leader across the spine industry, Dr. Sielatycki is paving the way for the next generation of spine surgeons, focused on providing motion surgery treatment options for all patients he treats. Building upon the practice founded by his mentor, Dr. Clint Devin, and serving eight different cities across Colorado and Wyoming, Dr. Sielatycki continues to drive forward the field of motion preservation - committed to providing the highest level of care for spine patients across the mountain region and the greater United States.
 
For patients, surgeons, and industry professionals, this episode provides insight into the future of spine surgery, where patient-centered innovation leads the way.
 
Learn more about Dr. Sielatycki and SOSI:
-Website: https://steamboatortho.com/ 
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-alex-sielatycki-95991515a/ 
 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
-YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8vODr8pDabWImOrHv3ZQ 
-Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfVt1ExQE0qTjhOERa?si=P2WUmAbFSmORUvd3PH0s5A&nd=1&dlsi=842b910ca7704b44 
-Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-spine-pod/id1745442311 
-Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98fd41ad-75ee-4371-bb70-c5b274324a47/the-spine-pod?ref=dm_sh_MQE4wl3lyb6590VX9msjWdqkn 
-iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-spine-pod-174320414/?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false&autoplay=true 
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558880652712

Mentorship Meets Innovation in Spine Surgery: Creating a Path to Better Care, Richard V. Chua, MD, FAANS, FACS

Ep. 09 Mentorship Meets Innovation in Spine Surgery: Creating a Path to Better Care, Richard V. Chua, MD, FAANS, FACS
In this episode of The Spine Pod, hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf explore the transformative power of technology in spine surgery with Dr. Richard Chua. As a leading neurosurgeon and professor at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, AZ, Dr. Chua discusses how minimally invasive surgery (MIS), robotics, and motion preservation are changing the landscape of spine care, offering patients quicker recoveries and improved long-term outcomes. He shares his personal journey into medicine, from his early years being inspired by his father to becoming a pioneer in the field of spine surgery. Dr. Chua also highlights the importance of clinical education and training in the adoption and advancement of new technologies in spine care. 
 
Dr. Chua continues the conversation by discussing how spine surgery is becoming more personalized to match the treatment options to patients’ individual needs. The conversation wraps up with Dr. Chua talking about the philanthropic endeavours he is currently pursuing overseas with the Nepal Spine Foundation, founded by Richard Wohns, which provides education and training for local medical providers to improve access to care to the local population of Nepal.
 
In this episode you’ll learn about:
How multiple technologies, including robotics, navigation, and motion preservation, are coming together to provide a higher level of patient care in spine surgery
The importance of clinical education and training in the adoption of novel technologies
How introspection and self-reflection can help improve surgical care
The necessity of data aggregation and pre-operative planning to provide more personalized treatment options for spine patients
Where spinal fusion fits into the modern spine care continuum and where motion-preserving implants provide a viable alternative
The value of role models and mentors in advancing spine surgery outcomes
Whether you’re seeking out information on innovative technologies, spine treatment options, or life advice - Dr. Chua provides a wealth of knowledge and insight that you won’t want to miss.
 
Learn more about Dr. Chua and Banner University Medical Center:
Website: https://doctors.bannerhealth.com/provider/richard-chua/2117141 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-v-chua-md-faans-facs-051b7940/ 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8vODr8pDabWImOrHv3ZQ
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfVt1ExQE0qTjhOERa?si=P2WUmAbFSmORUvd3PH0s5A&nd=1&dlsi=842b910ca7704b44
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-spine-pod/id1745442311
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98fd41ad-75ee-4371-bb70-c5b274324a47/the-spine-pod?ref=dm_sh_MQE4wl3lyb6590VX9msjWdqkn
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-spine-pod-174320414/?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false&autoplay=true
 
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558880652712 
 
 

The World of Motion Surgery: A Vocation to Motion Preservation & Global Spine Care, Jared Ament, MD, MPH, FAANS

Ep. 08 - The World of Motion Surgery: A Vocation to Motion Preservation & Global Spine Care, Jared Ament, MD, MPH, FAANS
In this episode of The Spine Pod, co-hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf explore the world of spine surgery through the lens of Dr. Jared Ament, fellowship trained neurosurgeon and co-director of the Spine Neurosurgery at the Neurosurgery & Spine Group. Dr. Ament’s practice is deeply rooted in the principles of holistic care and motion preservation, a philosophy that extends beyond a Los Angeles operating room to his global health initiatives abroad. From leading innovative clinical trials to providing care in underserved regions through mission work and provider training, Dr. Ament is redefining what it means to be a spine surgeon in the 21st century.
 
The conversation delves into his early inspirations in childhood and his unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative surgical techniques. Dr. Ament goes on to explore the physical function outcomes and fiscal differences between his motion preservation cases and his spinal fusion patients. The episode wraps up talking about his honest and holistic approach to patient care and how he provides the highest level of care, both in the United States and abroad, for every spine patient he treats. 
 
In this episode you’ll learn about:
The benefits motion-preserving procedures provide to patients for long-term outcomes.
The importance of patient education in the rapidly evolving field of spine surgery.
The differences in financial, physical function, and return to work outcomes for motion-preserving vs. spinal fusion patients when treating leg and/or back pain.  
The necessity of education and collaboration with local providers to create sustainability in underserved and international spine care.
How healthcare economics and reimbursement play a vital role in the continued advancement of spine care.
The importance of honest and transparent communication for providing the highest possible level of spine care to patients.
 
As the founder and president of Neuronomics and an advisory board member of the Institute of Neuro Innovation, Dr. Ament has an unwavering commitment to creating cost-effective options to patients across the globe. Dr. Ament, along with his partner Dr. Amir Vokshoor, have created a holistic spine practice at NSG in Los Angeles, CA that aims to provide the highest-quality spine care to every patient they encounter. 
 
If you found this podcast as a patient, industry professional, or surgeon,  Dr. Ament provides a wealth of insight into the future of spine care in the United States and abroad that you won’t want to miss.
 
Learn more about Dr. Ament and NSG:
Website: https://nsg-la.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjaredament?igsh=MTRpM2tneW11bHpleA== 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaredament 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-ament-md-mph-faans-97698b/ 
You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcA8vODr8pDabWImOrHv3ZQ
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfVt1ExQE0qTjhOERa?si=P2WUmAbFSmORUvd3PH0s5A&nd=1&dlsi=842b910ca7704b44
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-spine-pod/id1745442311
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98fd41ad-75ee-4371-bb70-c5b274324a47/the-spine-pod?ref=dm_sh_MQE4wl3lyb6590VX9msjWdqkn
iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-spine-pod-174320414/?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false&autoplay=true
Follow The Spine Pod on Facebook to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558880652712