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We do our best to keep our patients, hospitals, and surgeons informed about the latest within our specialty and the healthcare industry.

A Technical Note on Alternating Laminectomies Plus Folding Cystectomy: A Novel Technique for Spinal Arachnoid Cyst

By Admin | March 06, 2024

Spinal arachnoid cyst is a rare entity, accounting for about 1% of all spinal tumors, predominantly in the thoracic spine...

Use of an antibacterial envelope in spinal cord stimulation reduces the rate and severity of iatrogenic infections

By Admin | March 06, 2024

To examine if the use of an antibacterial envelope (TYRX) decreases the rate of postoperative infection in chronic pain patients undergoing treatment with spinal cord stimulation (SCS) involving device implantation.

From the decline of private practice to the 'minefield of prior authorization': The most dangerous trends in spine, orthopedics

By Admin | March 05, 2024

From ongoing fights with insurance companies to scope of practice expansions for non-spine and orthopedic trained physicians...

Stark law allegations on the rise: Report

By Admin | March 02, 2024

There was a notable increase in Stark law allegations in 2023, according to a Feb. 28 report from the law firm McDermott Will & Emery.

Spine surgeons' 'new avenues' to reach patients

By Admin | February 29, 2024

Krishna Satyan, MD. Dallas Neurosurgical & Spine (Plano, Texas): As healthcare continues to change, technology also advances rapidly. There are many new avenues of reaching patients and...

Are non-trained specialists performing spine procedures?

By Admin | February 27, 2024

Today, spine surgeons and their patients face several threats from new industry trends, including prior authorization denials, artificial intelligence and increased care provided by non-physician providers.

The Healthcare AI Question No One Wants to Answer

By Admin | February 24, 2024

Tarun Kapoor, chief digital transformation officer at New Jersey-based Virtua Health, highlighted a conundrum he thinks may be the reason why AI is stalling a bit.

'Hospitals are scared to death': Why ASCs have the advantage in recruiting spine surgeons

By Admin | February 20, 2024

Allowing physicians to have ownership in the places they work can make ASCs more attractive in recruiting, spine surgeons said Stephen Hochschuler, MD, of Texas Back Institute in Plano

Reduction of chronic primary low back pain by spinal manipulative therapy is accompanied

By Admin | February 17, 2024

This randomized controlled trial found that twelve sessions of spinal manipulative therapy yield greater relief of chronic primary low back pain than a control intervention.

Machine Learning Clustering of Adult Spinal Deformity Patients Identifies Four Prognostic Phenotypes

By Admin | February 15, 2024

To qualitatively segment adult spinal deformity patients using machine learning-based clustering on a large, multicenter, prospectively gathered cohort.

Surgeons are 'ghosting' the ED, ortho leader says

By Admin | February 13, 2024

The continuing wave of orthopedic and spine procedures to ASC settings has one surgeon concerned about the impact that will have on both surgeons and patients.

Is ChatGPT ready for orthopedic patients?

By Admin | February 12, 2024

Three studies presented at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeon's 2024 conference examined the accuracy of artificial intelligence chatbots, such as ChatGPT

Exoscope Tied to Better Outcomes in Spinal Neurosurgery

By Admin | February 09, 2024

Use of an exoscope for spinal neurosurgery is associated with superior intraoperative outcomes versus use of the operative microscope, according to...

FDA expands approval for spinal cord stimulator

By Admin | February 06, 2024

The FDA has approved Boston Scientific's WaveWriter SCS Systems for treating chronic low back and leg pain in people without prior back surgery.

Simulated outcomes for durotomy repair in minimally invasive spine surgery

By Admin | February 03, 2024

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) is increasingly performed using endoscopic and microscopic visualization, and the captured video can be used for surgical education and...

Early physical therapy maintains alignment, decreases pain after cervicothoracic fusion

By Admin | February 01, 2024

Patients who received early physical therapy after cervicothoracic fusion had better maintenance of alignment and improved pain scores.

Texas hospitals hit hard by bankruptcies, closures

By Admin | January 29, 2024

Hospital bankruptcies spiked in 2023 with 12 filings compared to a total of 11 filings in the previous three years combined. Three of those bankruptcy filings were by hospitals in Texas, with...

Despite OpenAI Shakeup, Augmented Reality Is Game-Changer, Neurosurgeons Say

By Admin | January 28, 2024

When Dr. Timothy Witham, professor of neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, performed the first-ever augmented reality surgical navigation spine surgery in the U.S. in...

Effect of Neuromuscular Training and Neurodynamic Solutions for Asymptomatic Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc and Coexisting Piriformis Syndrome

By Admin | January 27, 2024

This case study examines the treatment journey of a 19-year-old male who presented with bilateral buttock pain, lower limb weakness, and instability caused by piriformis syndrome and

Researchers suggest changing gold standard of spine surgery from operative microscope to 3D exoscope

By Admin | January 25, 2024

Reporting more favorable outcomes for patients and more comfort for surgeons with increased visibility during the procedure, MUSC researchers compare two methods of spinal surgery

Anesthesia reimbursements continue to sink

By Admin | January 24, 2024

Anesthesia reimbursement declines, along with demographic trends and case volume shifts, have drastically changed the ways that providers approach...

Treating Chronic, Intractable Pain with a Miniaturized Spinal Cord Stimulation System: 1-Year Outcomes from the AUS-nPower Study During the COVID-19 Pandemic

By Admin | January 23, 2024

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a highly effective treatment for chronic neuropathic pain. Despite recent advances in technology, treatment gaps remain.

North Country Orthopaedic Group files lawsuit against unidentified cyberhackers, has stolen data returned

By Admin | January 18, 2024

In November, Watertown, N.Y.-based North Country Orthopaedic Group filed a lawsuit against John Doe and Jane Doe, unidentified cyberattackers who stole confidential patient information in an August data breach, alongside Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center and Carthage Area Hospital.

Houston hospital leader ordered to pay $11M, prison time

By Admin | January 13, 2024

Syed Rizwan Mohiuddin, former president of United Memorial Medical Center in Houston, has been sentenced to 21 months in federal prison and...

Hackers say they didn't encrypt health system's data to not 'interfere with patient care'

By Admin | January 08, 2024

A hacker group said it only stole data from Trenton, N.J.-based Capital Health — but didn't encrypt it — "so as not to interfere with patient care,"

Jury finds for physician in spinal cord injury suit

By Admin | January 05, 2024

A St. Louis County jury sided with a Des Peres orthopedic surgeon whom a former patient alleged had failed to properly diagnose and treat a condition

Multimodal Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Cranial and Spinal Tumour Surgeries: A Descriptive Observational Study

By Admin | January 03, 2024

The present study aims at evaluating neurophysiological changes that occurred during five different neuromonitored surgeries performed with a multimodality approach at our institution, along with a prospective evaluation for the development of new postoperative neurological deficits.

Multimodal Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumors: A 10-Year Single Center Experience

By Admin | January 01, 2024

This study aimed to assess the predictive potential of multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) for functional outcomes in IMSCTs.

Spontaneous-Onset Delayed Spinal Arachnoiditis With Dorsal Cord Herniation in a 29-Year-Old Paraplegic Patient: A Case Report

By Admin | December 31, 2023

Adhesive arachnoiditis of the spinal cord is a relatively rare entity but can cause a significant amount of distress to the patient

Lumbar Epidural Hematoma as a Rare Complication From Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression

By Admin | December 27, 2023

We report a case of a rare epidural hematoma forming after a MILD procedure and the multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment

Removing Ambiguity from CMS’s In-Home HRA Guidance: Lessons from Cigna’s $172 Million False Claims Act Settlement

By Admin | December 22, 2023

On September 30, 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice announced a $172 million False Claims Act (FCA) settlement with Cigna relating to the submission of invalid HCC diagnosis codes to CMS in order to increase...

Steward faces false claims suit

By Admin | December 21, 2023

The U.S. Attorney's Office has filed a complaint under the False Claims Act against Steward Health Care System and its subsidiaries, alleging violations of the physician self-referral law and submission of false claims to Medicare.

Type II Odontoid Fractures in the Elderly Presenting to the Emergency Department:

By  | December 20, 2023

An Assessment of Factors Affecting In-Hospital Mortality and Discharge to Skilled Nursing Facilities

Multimodal Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Cranial and Spinal Tumour Surgeries:

By Admin | December 19, 2023

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) involves monitoring the functional integrity of critical brain regions and pathways as well as identifying and preserving functionally viable neural tissues (mapping) during surgery using electrophysiological techniques.

Considering spine surgery? Here are 7 of Dallas’ renowned providers

By Admin | December 18, 2023

Whether you have a new injury or long-standing problem, spine surgery could be the answer to back pain. Here’s what — and who — to know

Myasthenia Gravis for Spine Surgery: An Ardous Anaesthetic Journey

By Admin | December 17, 2023

This case series and the ensuing discussion describe the successful perioperative management of two cases of MG undergoing neuro-surgical management for lumbar spine pathologies.

Spine surgeons' next payer battle

By Admin | December 15, 2023

Aetna revised its lumbar disc replacement policy in February. Now, some surgeons are looking ahead to the next hurdle they could face from insurers.

Who Really Benefits From Medicare Advantage Plans?

By Admin | December 14, 2023

Health systems have been increasingly dropping MA contracts, saying that they cause their organizations to lose too much money and result in dangerous...

A Pediatric Case of Spinal Intradural Epidermoid Cyst: A Rare Encounter

By  | December 12, 2023

Intradural epidermoid cysts of the spine are rare congenital lesions. Their etiology is thought to stem from ectodermal remnants during embryonic development.

Аn Unusual Case of an Epidural Lesion of the Lumbar Spine: Tumor or Hematoma?

By Admin | December 10, 2023

Spinal epidural hematoma is a rare clinical entity with an incidence of approximately one per 1,000,000 patients per year.

Will Ozempic alter spine, orthopedic fields?

By Admin | December 08, 2023

The trend could alter projections for orthopedic surgery differently in the short and long term

Reimbursement woes continue to plague orthopedic surgeons

By Admin | December 06, 2023

On Nov. 2, CMS released the 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule, which updated the conversion factor to $32.74, a 3.4% decrease compared to last year.

Spine, radiology groups push back on Cigna spinal cord stimulator policy

By Admin | December 04, 2023

A letter from the American Society of Neuroradiology that was co-signed by multiple spine groups is calling out Cigna over its policies related to closed-loop spinal cord stimulation therapy.

Optimizing Patient Outcomes in Spinal Surgery: An Investigation Into Anesthesiologists’ Case Volume

By Admin | December 02, 2023

Nearly one million patients in the United States undergo spine surgical procedures annually to seek

'Healthcare is about to enter a supercycle of innovation': What we heard in November

By Admin | December 01, 2023

Spine and orthopedic experts in November spoke about topics from shifting away from hospital employment to diversity in the field.

Medicare Advantage is getting 'much, much worse' for spine

By Admin | November 30, 2023

Medicare Advantage has been controversial this year with several major health systems dropping plan coverage due to denials, and some physicians following suit.

Multimodal Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Cranial and Spinal Tumour Surgeries: A Descriptive Observational Study

By Admin | November 28, 2023

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) involves monitoring the functional integrity of critical brain regions and pathways as well as identifying and preserving functionally viable neural tissues (mapping) during surgery using electrophysiological techniques.

Collaboration, research among top priorities for NASS' 2024 president

By Admin | November 26, 2023

Zoher Ghogawala, MD, president of the North American Spine Society, is looking at the year ahead as an opportunity to unite specialties amid increased economic headwinds and CMS challenges.

American Joint Replacement Registry Releases 10th Annual Report

By Admin | November 22, 2023

The American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR), just published its 2023 Annual Report on hip and knee arthroplasty procedural trends and patient outcomes.

'I have zero faith in our payers': Where ASCs are losing money with reimbursements

By Admin | November 20, 2023

ASCs have long faced obstacles to reimbursements, and some leaders are finding increasing obstacles to securing necessary pay for procedures.

Lawsuit alleges UnitedHealth used AI to wrongfully deny claims

By Admin | November 18, 2023

Insurance giant UnitedHealth Group is facing a lawsuit alleging it used an artificial intelligence algorithm to wrongfully deny coverage to older patients...

Hospitals are dropping Medicare Advantage plans left and right: 13 updates

By Admin | November 16, 2023

Medicare Advantage provides health coverage to more than half of the nation's seniors, but a growing number of hospitals and health systems nationwide are pushing back and dropping...

Outpatient spine surgery's rise 'encouraging and concerning': Dr. Sigurd Berven

By Admin | November 14, 2023

Sigurd Berven, MD, professor in residence and chief of spine service at UCSF Health sees spine surgery moving outpatient as technology develops and...

Spine surgeons uneasy amid CMS's pay drop

By Admin | November 12, 2023

Spine surgeons are unhappy with CMS after plans for 2024 physician pay were revealed last week.

Lumbar fusion, 3D scans and endoscopic surgery: Dr. Ali Anissipour on the future of spinal treatment

By Admin | November 08, 2023

Ali Anissipour, MD, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Western Washington Medical Group in Everett, recently joined Becker's to discuss his achievements in the last year and trends and advancements in spine surgery worth monitoring.

The Scope of Physiotherapy Rehabilitation in Compressive Myelopathy Managed by Spinal Fusion: A Case Report

By Admin | November 05, 2023

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy, or degenerative cervical myelopathy, is a common serious neurological disorder in adults. The etiology of the condition could be...

UnitedHealthcare's prior authorization removals just 'payer antics,' surgeons say

By Admin | November 01, 2023

Nov. 1 marks a new wave of prior authorization code eliminations from UnitedHealthcare

What's next for prone lateral spine surgery?

By Admin | October 31, 2023

Prone lateral spine positioning has gained attention in recent years and has been touted for its efficiency in the operating room. But its future isn't completely clear yet.

Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Systematic Review

By Admin | October 28, 2023

This review highlights spinal disc herniation for finding the more appropriate management options.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Presenting as Peripheral Nerve Disease: A Case Report

By Admin | October 25, 2023

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in the elderly population. It is a degenerative disease that classically presents with fine motor dysfunction of the hands and gait instability.

Inspired Spine’s Dr. Abbasi Takes OLLIF Expertise to Orlando, Training Dr. Jose Jimenez-Almonte

By Admin | October 22, 2023

Dr. Abbasi, a renowned pioneer in the field of Orthopedic and Neurosurgery, is set to travel to Orlando, Florida, to impart his expertise in the revolutionary Oblique Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLLIF) procedure

Did Cigna Deserve its $172M Penalty?

By Admin | October 15, 2023

One expert said this is just a small part of the problem...

Stark law compliance: 5 key notes

By Admin | October 05, 2023

Understanding physician arrangements and Stark law is critical to ensure patient care while complying with legal policy...

'Its position has become untenable': Why 3 neurosurgeons are fed up with Aetna

By Admin | October 02, 2023

While major insurer Aetna has taken steps to expand its coverage for spine and orthopedic care in the last year, for some surgeons, it's still not enough.

U.S.’ largest insurer eyes majority ownership of Guilford surgical center

By Admin | September 28, 2023

A company affiliated with the U.S.’ largest health insurer, UnitedHealth Group, is looking to take a majority ownership stake in a Guilford surgical center.

'No other industry would tolerate this': The problem with prior authorization in spine surgery

By Admin | September 25, 2023

The prior authorization system is seen as flawed by many surgeons working in orthopedics, spine surgery and beyond.

What 3 surgeons wish patients knew about their job

By Admin | September 22, 2023

Surgeons have to deal with many challenges throughout their careers with patient care, insurance and...

The cost of preventing a heart attack with Wegovy? $1M for insurers

By Admin | September 19, 2023

Wegovy, Novo Nordisk's expensive weight loss drug, could reduce the risk of cardiovascular events — but at a steep cost to insurers...

Aetna, Optum can't escape class-action status in 'dummy code' case

By  | September 17, 2023

The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Sept. 13 it won't review a lower court's ruling that certified class-action status in a lawsuit alleging...

The Most Common Back Surgeries, Explained

By Admin | September 15, 2023

What are the most common back surgery types, and how do they bring relief?

Are insurance companies determining the future of orthopedics?

By Admin | September 13, 2023

Physicians are concerned that insurance companies won't be open to covering new care options...

Virtual and Augmented Reality in Spine Surgery: An Era of Immersive Healthcare

By Admin | September 11, 2023

In the dynamic realm of spinal surgery, the integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies is heralding a transformative era. These cutting-edge tools are...

The Relationship Between Bone Mineral Density and Lumbar Disc Herniation in Postmenopausal Women

By Admin | September 08, 2023

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is one of the most frequent diseases that has a serious impact on people's quality of life and puts a heavy burden on families and society

Brain and Spine Surgeons To Share Leading-Edge Advances

By Admin | September 05, 2023

Experts who treat the most aggressive form of brain cancer and specialize in leading-edge spine surgery techniques will present research in Washington D.C. Sept 9 - 13th

A Trans-pedicle Approach to Avoid Exiting Nerve Root Injury in Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Decompression: A Case Report

By Admin | September 03, 2023

This report aims to describe a case with an extremely low-located exiting nerve root and introduce the trans-pedicle approach for endoscopic transforaminal decompression

Spinal intradural extramedullary tumors: microscopic keyhole resection with the focus on intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and long-term outcome

By Admin | August 31, 2023

Few studies up to now tried to determine the long-term outcome after minimally invasive surgery (MIS) with multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) for IDEM tumors.

Factors Related to the Deterioration of Postoperative Lower Back Pain in Hemilaminectomy Approach for Lumbar Spinal Schwannoma Resection

By Admin | August 30, 2023

This study aimed to explore the related risk factors in patients who underwent hemilaminectomy for lumbar spinal schwannoma resection

Leading Spine Surgeon in Plano Unveils Expert Tips for Spine Health and Minimally Invasive Surgery

By Admin | August 29, 2023

Valuable insights and expert advice for maintaining optimal spine health and exploring minimally invasive surgery....

Orthobiologics Show Great Promise for Less Invasive Treatment of Certain Musculoskeletal Conditions

By Admin | August 26, 2023

As orthopaedic medicine continues to advance through innovation, research and evidence-based medicine, the complexities and unknowns about newer treatments such as orthobiologics, may leave patients wondering if it is a viable treatment option for them

Teva, Glenmark To Pay $255M, Divest Cholesterol Drug to Settle DOJ Price Fixing Charges

By Admin | August 23, 2023

Generic drugmakers Teva and Glenmark recently became the sixth and seventh drugmakers to resolve criminal charges as a result of the DOJ’s yearslong investigation into generic drug price fixing.

ASNM has created a dedicated page filled with valuable information Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring / IONM

By Admin | August 18, 2023

Looking for a comprehensive resource to help your #patients understand Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring / IONM ?

Patient with Quadriplegia granted new malpractice trial against Arizona neurosurgeon

By Admin | August 16, 2023

Brooke Amick, a patient with Quadriplegia, has been granted a new trial against neurosurgeon John Iskander, MD

UnitedHealthcare removes 4 spinal surgery codes in effort to cut prior authorization by 20%

By Admin | August 14, 2023

On Sept. 1, UnitedHealthcare is set to begin a two-phased approach to eliminate prior authorization requirements for several procedure codes, including four spine-related codes.

'Like a mafia enforcer for insurers:' AdventHealth sues MultiPlan for alleged price fixing

By Admin | August 11, 2023

Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based AdventHealth is suing MultiPlan for an alleged ongoing conspiracy among commercial health insurers to reduce the reimbursement rates they pay to providers for out-of-network services.

Labor Department Sues UnitedHealth Group Over ‘Thousands’ of Claims Denials

By Admin | August 07, 2023

The Labor Department recently sued UnitedHealth Group subsidiary UMR, alleging that it wrongfully denied claims for emergency room services and...

Hospitals need more than 0% margins, AHA insists

By Admin | August 05, 2023

The American Hospital Association is taking on a message that might be common sense to many but is a source of misconception to some

Negotiating favorable payer contracts: 'huge challenge' for ASCs

By Admin | August 02, 2023

Successful negotiations and favorable contracts with payers is the first step before surgical centers can sustainably function and...

Aetna can't undo class in disc replacement lawsuit

By Admin | July 31, 2023

Aetna lost its bid to decertify a 239-person class-action lawsuit over its coverage of lumbar total disc replacement.

HCA posts $2.6B net gain in 1st 6 months

By Admin | July 27, 2023

Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare, one of the largest for-profit health systems in the U.S., reported net income of $1.19 billion for the second quarter of 2023

HCA, Tenet EBITDA rises as labor costs cool

By Admin | July 23, 2023

Some for-profit health systems, such as Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare and Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare — the two largest — have seen improved EBITDA

2 federal spine, orthopedic updates

By Admin | July 20, 2023

Two developments on federal cases involving spine and orthopedics

American Physician Partners closing: What ASCs need to know

By Admin | July 18, 2023

Medical staffing company American Physician Partners is closing and will transition to its hospital contracts.

Top 10 Hidden Facts About Hospital Prices

By Admin | July 11, 2023

Here are the top 10 hidden facts about hospital prices that answer questions about why it is so expensive and why the bills are so complicated.

What to Do If Your Kids Has Spinal Issues

By Admin | July 09, 2023

As a parent, you’re always attuned to your kid’s health. But should you be worried when your kid complains of back pain? Or maybe...

A common treatment for back and neck pain may not work, study suggests

By Admin | July 07, 2023

Opioid medications are one of the most typically prescribed treatments for the worldwide problem of low back pain — but they might not work, a new study has found.

Pittsburgh hospital reduces neurosurgical infections by more than 80% in 2 years

By Admin | July 06, 2023

Researchers at UPMC Mercy hospital reduced infection risk before and after surgical procedures over a 2-year period

Prophylactic Lumbar Drainage Following Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Shows Additional Benefits

By Admin | July 05, 2023

A recently published study (NCT01258247) in JAMA Neurology showed that use of lumbar drains after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage may lessen the burden of secondary infarction and...

AANS, CNS urge CMS to finalize rules to improve prior authorization

By Admin | July 04, 2023

Today, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) joined 61 bipartisan senators and 233 members of the House of Representatives in...

Opioids May Not Be Effective In Treating Low Back And Neck Pain, Study Finds

By Admin | July 02, 2023

Prescription opioids might not be as effective in treating lower back pain as perceived, a new study has found.

Consortium strives to identify best practices for severe extremity trauma

By Admin | June 30, 2023

The Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium aims to improve outcomes in severe extremity injuries

Surgical stabilization of odontoid fractures improves outcomes

By Admin | June 28, 2023

Study featured in Neurosurgery is the first to use propensity score analysis to compare the effects of surgical stabilization versus nonoperative treatment on survival, fracture union, and neurologic outcome

How awareness helps those with scoliosis connect and find treatment

By Admin | June 25, 2023

For every teenager, having friends who understand you can mean the world. That holds even more true for someone like Addie Jenkins, living with scoliosis the...

UnitedHealth Group shareholders reject health equity audit, political lobbying proposals

By Admin | June 20, 2023

In a wide margin, UnitedHealth Group shareholders have rejected three proposals that revolved around health equity...

Health system settles orthopedic False Claims allegations for $36.5M

By Admin | June 16, 2023

The health system allegedly made payments to orthopedic surgeons l

Analysis: Health insurance claim denials are on the rise, to the detriment of patients

By Admin | June 02, 2023

companies appear increasingly likely to employ computer algorithms or people with little relevant experience to issue rapid-fire denials of claims — sometimes bundles at a time — without reviewing the patient’s medical chart.

Hospital margins break even at 0%

By Admin | May 31, 2023

The median year-to-date operating margin index for hospitals slightly improved in April to 0 percent, according to...

Resection of Primary and Recurrent Parapharyngeal Space Pleomorphic Adenomas via a Combined Transcervical-Transparotid Approach: A Case Series

By Admin | May 25, 2023

Intraoperative visibility of all vital anatomical structures is essential in performing a safe and radical dissection of the tumor.

How Cigna Saves Millions by Having Its Doctors Reject Claims Without Reading Them

By Admin | May 22, 2023

“We literally click and submit,” one former Cigna doctor said. “It takes all of 10 seconds to do 50 at a time.”

Spine Surgical Subspecialty and Its Effect on Patient Outcomes

By Admin | May 18, 2023

Spine surgeons may become board certified through orthopedic surgery or neurosurgical residency training, and recent literature has compared surgical outcomes between surgeons

AI models pass neurosurgery tests at Brown University

By Admin | May 15, 2023

Researchers at Brown University in Providence, R.I. found artificial intelligence models were able to pass written and oral neurosurgery exams

Car crash survivor avoids paralysis after less invasive spine surgery

By Admin | May 11, 2023

A less invasive surgical option Spine endoscopy is not new outside of the United States. The procedure involves sticking a small scope through a...

Radiology societies urge commercial insurers to align with Medicare on payment policy for key procedure

By Admin | May 08, 2023

Nearly a dozen national medical groups voiced their concerns in a May 1 letter to Humana, Aetna and others. Their frustration stems from policies pertaining to coverage for a minimally invasive procedure...

Surgalign launches Holo AI Insights for neurovascular research

By Admin | May 05, 2023

Holo AI Insights is also integrated with Surgalign's Holo Portal spine system

White Cord Syndrome: A Treatment Dilemma

By Admin | April 25, 2023

Spinal cord reperfusion injury following decompressive surgery is extremely rare...

Texas hospital adds Holo Portal spine system w/ AI

By Admin | April 20, 2023

Medical City Frisco (Texas), an HCA Healthcare affiliate, has added Surgalign's Holo Portal Surgical Navigation System for lumbar spine procedures to its clinical toolkit.

'Health system' is out; here's what comes next

By Admin | April 14, 2023

Hospitals evolved into health systems over the last several years...now health systems term is becoming obsolete

Cigna physicians deny claims en masse without reading them: ProPublica report

By Admin | April 10, 2023

Cigna physicians deny large batches of claims without reviewing them first

Dr. Tyler Smith completes 50 cases using Augmedics spine navigation

By Admin | April 04, 2023

Spine Surgeon completed his 50th case using Augmedics' Xvision spine navigation system

Dr. Todd Lanman Begins Breakthrough Low Back Total Joint Replacement Clinical Trial

By Admin | March 31, 2023

Todd Lanman, MD and Lanman Spinal Neurosurgery announced completion of the first lumbar total joint replacement procedure in California as part of a pivotal clinical trial sponsored by...

Geisinger Medical Center performs 1st lumbar spinal fusion with 'lifetime guarantee

By Admin | March 23, 2023

Geisinger Health Plan and the Medacta Group SA, a Swiss company announced the first lifetime guarantee for a lumbar spinal fusion surgery

Pain in the back: Spinal arthritis

By Admin | March 14, 2023

Arthritis can affect various joints in the body that are load-bearing and where movement occurs, including the spine

3D Surface Topographic Scans Yield Reliable Spine Range of Motion Measurements in Adolescents

By Admin | March 06, 2023

Cameras that can scan an entire body in a fraction of a second can give spinal surgeons an accurate assessment of how much range of motion...

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Following Uncomplicated Spinal Surgery: A Report and Brief Review

By Admin | March 02, 2023

This report and literature review describes a case of a Coombs test-positive warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in a patient following routine spinal surgery without...

Barriers to surgical robotics adoption

By Admin | February 18, 2023

According to a Bain & Company report on the state of robotics as used in healthcare, 78% of surgeons surveyed expressed interest in surgical robotics, however...

Face of Neurosurgery/Spine - D Magazine

By Admin | February 15, 2023

Dr. Luis Antonio Mignucci was the first board-certified neurosurgeon in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to complete a formal fellowship in spine surgery at...

Federal judge rules against HHS — again — over surprise-billing arbitration rule

By Admin | February 07, 2023

A federal judge in Texas has handed another win to the Texas Medical Association and medical providers nationwide against HHS over a challenge to the arbitration process between out-of-network providers and payers that was established under the No Surprises Act.

'Hospital purgatory': Confidence in healthcare plunges as criticism grows louder and larger

By Admin | February 05, 2023

Payers, pharmacy benefit managers and drug manufacturers are no strangers to heavy criticism from the public and providers alike. Now another sector of the healthcare system has found itself increasingly caught in the crosshairs of constituents looking to point a finger for the rising cost of care...

Texas group's latest No Surprises Act lawsuit challenges 600% fee hike

By Admin | February 01, 2023

The Texas Medical Association has filed its fourth lawsuit against the federal No Surprises Act, this time challenging a 600 percent hike in...

Top US spinal organisations launch new Coalition for Spine Health

By Admin | January 16, 2023

The US National Spine Health Foundation (NSHF) has announced the launch of a first of its kind Coalition for Spine Health. The coalition will initially bring...

Wound drain in lumbar arthrodesis for degenerative disease: an experimental, multicenter, randomized controlled trial

By Admin | January 13, 2023

We aimed to evaluate wound drains in patients with lumbar arthrodesis for degenerative disorders based on clinical outcomes, complications, hematocrit, and length of stay.

10 healthcare names get Shkreli Awards for bad behavior

By Admin | January 10, 2023

No one in healthcare aspires to win an award named after a "pharma bro." But that's exactly where 10 individuals and organizations find themselves...

Augmented Reality to Improve Surgical Workflow in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

By Admin | January 06, 2023

We recently introduced the concept of “total navigation” to improve workflow and...

What role does minimally invasive surgery have in treating those with spinal deformity?

By Admin | January 03, 2023

MIS approaches for adult spinal deformity (ASD) have been increasingly popular in the past few years and will continue to grow.

Computer vision is superior to surgeons in identifying spinal implants, shows study

By Admin | December 27, 2022

Researchers developed a computer vision machine learning approach that...

3 federal updates involving spine, orthopedics

By Admin | December 24, 2022

Here are three federal updates involving spine and orthopedics since Nov. 30:

SURGLASSES received FDA 510(k) Clearance for Caduceus S

By Admin | December 20, 2022

SURGLASSES announced today that Caduceus S AR Spine Navigation System has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and

Spine surgeons predict 'tremendous growth' in endoscopy over the next 10 years

By Admin | December 15, 2022

Despite pushback from payers and some reimbursement and training obstacles, many spine surgeons expect endoscopic spine surgery to become more prominent in the U.S...

CMS Delays Looming Good Faith Estimate Co-Provider Requirement

By Admin | December 05, 2022

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) published FAQ guidance on December 2, 2022 indefinitely extending the current enforcement discretion for non-compliance with the No Surprises Act requirement that Good Faith Estimates (“GFEs”) for uninsured or self-pay patients include expected charges from co-providers or co-facilities until future rulemaking is issued.

Data Show Patients Have Longer In-hospital Stays After Neck Surgery

By Admin | December 02, 2022

Among people undergoing surgery to remove a damaged spinal disc in the neck, those with Parkinson’s disease had significantly longer in-hospital stays and a greater risk of...

Pain relief for worn spinal disks - Austin Daily Herald

By Admin | November 29, 2022

“Degenerative disk disease is a result of multiple factors, some that can be controlled and others that can’t,”

A Comparison of Thoracolumbar Injury Classification in Spine Trauma Patients Among Neurosurgeons in East Africa Versus North America

By Admin | November 27, 2022

The survey consisted of seven questions and was sent to 440 neurosurgeons practicing on the continents of North America and East Africa.

'It's like a shakedown': Payers, providers ditch the hushed voices in their fights

By Admin | November 24, 2022

If payer-provider disputes were a reality TV show, just a few years ago viewers would have been hard to come by.

UConn Offers Nation’s First Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Master’s Program

By Admin | November 22, 2022

IONM involves working with a surgical team to ensure that a patient retains nerve function before, during, and after a surgery.

Several factors linked with conversion from ambulatory surgery to inpatient decompression

By Admin | November 16, 2022

CHICAGO — Results showed several surgical and patient factors were significantly associated with conversion from ambulatory surgery to either outpatient or inpatient surgery in patients undergoing lumbar decompression.

What leads to herniated discs and treatment for a herniated disc?

By Admin | November 10, 2022

Slipped disc can cause pain and discomfort and if it compresses one of your spinal nerves then you may also experience numbness and pain along with the affected nerve. This condition can occur in...

Interrelationship Between Craniocervical Dissociation Spectrum Injuries and Atlantoaxial Instability on Trauma Cervical MRI Examinations

By Admin | November 07, 2022

Craniocervical dissociation injuries encompass a spectrum of osteoligamentous injuries between the skull base and C1-C2 that may be treated via prolonged external immobilization versus occipital cervical fusion depending on the risk of persistent craniocervical instability. However...

Talking Back: Understanding the role a healthy spine plays in overall health

By Admin | November 05, 2022

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lower back pain is one of the most common types of pain reported by patients, with 25% of U.S. adults reporting having experienced lower back pain in the prior three months.

Health in Focus: Spine and the Sciatic Nerve

By Admin | November 02, 2022

To continue the conversation about minimally invasive surgeries, Dr. Jagannathan joins us live to explain more about them when it comes to the spine and sciatica.

UT Southwestern adds minimally invasive spine procedure

By Admin | October 31, 2022

The UT Southwestern Spine Center in Dallas began offering the Intracept spine procedure for lower back pain

Double checking ICD coding can improve safety, for spine patients: study

By Admin | October 24, 2022

Spine clinics can save money by taking a closer look at ICD-10 coding, according to a study

Spine surgeons 'skeptical' of big tech, retail disrupting US healthcare

By Admin | October 19, 2022

Retail giants such as Walgreens and CVS Health and the Big Four tech companies — Alphabet (rebranded from Google), Amazon, Apple and Microsoft — are ramping up their healthcare pursuits as patients increasingly demand lower costs and convenient access to care.

Christus Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute in Longview officially opens $35 Million project

By Admin | October 13, 2022

The Christus Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute officially opened Thursday at the NorthPark campus in Longview

Minimally invasive spine surgery: What's exciting spine leaders

By Admin | October 08, 2022

While spine robots are still widely considered to be in the infancy stages, endoscopy surgery has been around for far longer.

Congress designates September as National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month

By Admin | October 05, 2022

On Sept. 14, Congress heard and signed a bill sponsored by Florida Senator Marco Rubio that designated September 2022 as National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month.

Hourly orthopedic surgeon wages may be less than you think

By Admin | October 03, 2022

Orthopedic surgeons earn the highest hourly wages in Georgia, according to the most recent data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's next for spine care? Notes from an expert

By Admin | September 27, 2022

Long Island, N.Y.-based orthopedic spine surgeon Daniel Choi, MD, believes that the future of spine care not only lies in new technology, but in ASCs.

Spinal bone marrow injections effective for lower back pain 2 years post-op, study finds

By Admin | September 27, 2022

A two-year study found Creative Medical Technology's StemSpine procedure was effective for treating lower back pain, the biologics company said Sept. 26.

'They're on really thin ice': Why 1 insurer has drawn spine surgeons' ire

By Admin | September 25, 2022

Artificial disc replacement technology has advanced dramatically since the FDA approved it in 2004, and many surgeons laud the devices. However, it has its detractors.

Texas Health Fort Worth Recognized for Advanced Spine Care

By Admin | September 21, 2022

Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth recently earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery (ACSS) according to the September 20th news release.

2 professional athletes undergo spine surgery in a week

By Admin | September 17, 2022

Two athletes who had spine surgery since September 9 including one in Dallas Texas

Man develops rare spine complication from monkeypox

By Admin | September 07, 2022

A Colorado man developed a rare spine and brain condition after a monkeypox infection, according to a Sept report from the CDC.

'The numbers don't lie': Endoscopy to become more prominent among next generation of spine surgeons

By Admin | September 04, 2022

Many physicians see endoscopic spine surgery as a key growth opportunity in the next five years

Neurosurgeon accepted $3.3M in illegal payments to perform spine surgeries at hospital

By Admin | September 02, 2022

Neurosurgeon Lokesh Tantuwaya, MD, 55, on Sept. 1 pleaded guilty to accepting about $3.3 million in bribes for performing spine surgeries at the now-defunct Pacific Hospital in Long Beach, Calif.

Staff shortages, insurers compound spine surgeons' patient experience challenges

By Admin | August 17, 2022

From hiring the right staff in a challenging labor market to the advantages of technology and the importance of getting to know one's patients, seven spine surgeons from independent practices and health systems across the country discuss how they aim to improve the patient experience at their practices.

CMS lifts prior authorization for some orthopedic braces

By Admin | August 11, 2022

CMS has suspended prior authorization requirements for some orthoses products under limited circumstances, according to an Aug. 9 update.

Why BCBS Mississippi is suing 3 hospital execs for defamation

By Admin | August 05, 2022

One of the most turbulent payer-provider contract disputes of 2022

New York neurosurgeon indicted for unnecessary, invasive tests in kickback scheme

By Admin | August 03, 2022

Neurosurgeon Payam Toobian, MD, and his business, America's Imaging Center, have been indicted for allegedly defrauding Medicaid by forcing patients to...

Spinal Cord Compression Due to Tophaceous Vertebral Gout: A Case Report

By Admin | August 01, 2022

Gout tophi are deposits of urate crystals in subcutaneous tissues and joints which commonly affect the small joints of the feet and hands, causing painful arthritis. The axial skeleton is considered to be seldom affected by gout arthritis. Here we describe...

A Case Report of Rare Sacral Solitary Fibrous Tumor

By Admin | July 31, 2022

Huge primary epidural solitary fibrous tumors in the sacrum are a rare clinical entity...

New trial required for Missouri neurosurgeon's kickback case

By Admin | July 28, 2022

A Cape Girardeau, Mo.-based neurosurgeon and his then-fiancee who were fined nearly $5.5 million in a kickback case will face a new False Claims Act trial after...

Severe High Cervical Cord Compression Due to Large Bilateral Neurofibromas in a Patient With Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Case Report and Review of Literature

By Admin | July 26, 2022

Spinal neurofibromas are rare benign lesions associated with neurofibromatosis Type 1. They can often cause compression on nerve roots and the spinal cord. In this rare case...

Average cost of spinal disc replacement in 13 US cities

By Admin | July 25, 2022

The costs of spinal disc replacement can be expensive nationwide. According to a report from...

Startup aims to disrupt the robotic spine industry: How will competitors react?

By Admin | July 21, 2022

Two of the biggest drawbacks of legacy spine robots are their size and cost, but one newly formed spine company has launched a system that it argues is more suited to ASCs and hospitals with small operating rooms.

‘Bekey Changed My Life’ - The robotics pioneer’s true gift is not with machines but with people

By Admin | July 18, 2022

The robotics pioneer’s true gift is not with machines but with people

Tenet Healthcare, Baptist Health face class-action lawsuit over April data breach

By Admin | July 15, 2022

A class-action lawsuit was filed against Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare and its affiliate, San Antonio, Texas-based Baptist Health System, over an April data breach that has affected 1.2 million patients, the Dallas Morning News reported July 12.

UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital first in world to use Pulse platform for pediatric spine surgery: How the procedure works

By Admin | July 10, 2022

'We are thrilled to offer this remarkable new technology to our patients, as navigational platforms like Pulse are truly the future of surgery.'

Bipartisan Burgess bill seeks to provide Medicare patients with more timely treatments

By Admin | June 30, 2022

Qualifying providers would be exempt from prior authorization requirements under Medicare Advantage plans

Accountant involved in spine surgery kickback scheme sentenced to prison

By Admin | June 24, 2022

A 69-year-old accountant who enabled a scheme allowing kickbacks for spine surgery referrals was sentenced to prison, the Justice Department said June 24.

University of Pittsburgh researchers' spine implants would monitor healing

By Admin | June 18, 2022

A team at University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering is creating a 3D-printed smart implant that would double as a sensor to monitor spinal healing.

Carson Daly undergoes ‘breakthrough’ procedure after decades of back pain

By Admin | June 13, 2022

Carson Daly has undergone a new procedure to help him heal from the decades of back pain that has negatively affected his life.

UH Rainbow Babies first hospital in the world to use new spinal surgery technology

By Admin | June 06, 2022

University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in Cleveland is the first in the world to use the Pulse platform to perform a pediatric spine surgery, according to a news release.

Current and Future Applications of the Kambin’s Triangle in Lumbar Spine Surgery

By Admin | June 03, 2022

Kambin’s triangle has become the anatomical location of choice when accessing the lumbar spine to treat degenerative spinal disorders. Currently, lumbar interbody fusion is the most...

Evaluation of Endoscopic Versus Open Lumbar Discectomy

By Admin | June 01, 2022

Multi-Center Retrospective Review Utilizing the American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Database

2ND STUDY ALSO FINDS GAP BETWEEN PATIENT AND SURGEON PERCEPTIONS

By Admin | May 28, 2022

The topic of how a patient perceives shared decision-making versus how their surgeon perceives it is getting increased attention from the research community

New minimally invasive spinal surgery gives teenage girl hope

By Admin | May 25, 2022

Estella Chase started to feel pain in her lower back during a gymnastics competition last year in the middle of the season. She said she pushed through, but the pain worsened.

Centinel Spine Clinical Study for Total Disc Replacement for 2-Level Symptomatic Cervical Disc Disease

By Admin | May 22, 2022

Texas Spine Care Center announced today their 10th patient enrolled in the Centinel Spine, LLC, Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Safety and Effectiveness of...

TeDan Surgical Innovations Redefines Anterior to the Psoas Access with the Release of the Phantom UL ATP Surgical Access System

By Admin | May 19, 2022

The launch of the Phantom UL Anterior to the Psoas Surgical Access System elevates traditional ATP surgical access with on-demand independent retraction...

A healthy spine: preserving motion in the back

By Admin | May 16, 2022

Doctors have gotten much better at helping people with joint problems over the last 100 years. These days, patients can get...

MINT Clinic Adds Endoscopic Spine Surgery to List of Services

By Admin | May 13, 2022

As most people know, minimally invasive neurosurgery is a technique developed specifically to treat spinal conditions. The method involves making smaller incisions around the surgical site than usual.

The AMA’s Little-Known Committee that Sets Physician Service Prices

By Admin | May 10, 2022

Talk about “agency capture.” The American Medical Association’s shadowy “RUC” panel tilts Medicare and Medicaid payments in favor of specialties like surgery and away from needed family care.

ASCs, technology, consolidation & more: The trends that are saving orthopedics

By Admin | May 07, 2022

The migration of outpatient procedures, consolidation under orthopedic supergroups and innovative technologies were among the top trends surgeons credited with...

Nondiabetic Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Single-level Transforaminal Lumbar Fusion Have Lower Satisfaction When They Smoke

By Admin | May 04, 2022

Researchers evaluated registry data that had been obtained prospectively. For a study, they sought to determine how smoking affected functional results, satisfaction, and radiologic fusion in nondiabetic patients with minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)

Successful Treatment of Pediatric Holo-Spinal Epidural Abscess With Percutaneous Drainage

By Admin | May 02, 2022

Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is a rare and potentially devastating neurologic disease that is commonly treated with neurosurgical decompression and evacuation.

What's next for awake spine surgery? 3 predictions

By Admin | April 25, 2022

Awake spine surgery avoids general anesthesia and intubation and uses a local anesthetic to let surgeons examine a patient's neurologic condition during surgery.

What Are Patients Saying About Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeons Online

By Admin | April 23, 2022

A Sentiment Analysis of 2,235 Physician Review Website Reviews. Physician review websites are becoming increasingly popular for patients to find and review healthcare providers. The goal of this study was to utilize quantitative analyses to understand trends in ratings and written comments on physician review websites for Society of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (SMISS) members

Texas hospital that performed 4K+ robotic surgeries adds spine robot

By Admin | April 21, 2022

BEAUMONT, Texas — New robotic technology that’s revolutionizing neurosurgery and orthopedics is coming to CHRISTUS Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth. The hospital has five robots to use for surgeries, three of which are...

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Auxiliary Significance of DNEP for MEP-positive Event During Severe Spinal Deformity Surgery

By Admin | April 18, 2022

MEP-positive cases with intraoperative DNEP (−) showed superior prognosis after severe spinal deformity surgery. Intraoperative DNEP could be regarded as an important quantitative tool to...

'They're on really thin ice': Why 1 insurer has drawn spine surgeons' ire

By Admin | April 15, 2022

Artificial disc replacement technology has advanced dramatically since the FDA approved it in 2004, and many surgeons laud the devices. However, it has its detractors

Study published in the IJSS shows Surgalign product to be a reliable solution for SIJ dysfunction

By Admin | April 13, 2022

Outcomes Following Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion with Decortication

Watch “My Lower Back Pain- What Could It Mean?”

By Admin | April 11, 2022

Watch “My Lower Back Pain- What Could It Mean?” with guest speaker Dr. Rachid Assina, Chief of Neurosurgery at Saint Clare’s Health. This video from Saint Clare’s Health online community series, ‘Let’s Talk Health’, hosted by Brian Finestein, Chief Executive Officer of Saint Clare’s Health

Why 6 spine surgeons are excited about augmented reality

By Admin | April 09, 2022

Interest in augmented reality has spiked over the past decade, stemming from a desire to limit complications associated with instrumented spine surgery and improve...

Texas Health Fort Worth Becomes First Hospital in the Nation to Earn Prestigious Joint Commission Recognition

By Admin | April 07, 2022

Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth is the first facility in the U.S. to earn The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval® for Neurotrauma Certification.

Why insurers, health systems are breaking up

By Admin | April 05, 2022

Insurers and health systems across the U.S. have been at odds during the most recent cycle of contract negotiations, and terminated contracts are affecting thousands of patients.

'Thankful' | Surgeon, patient reunite after historic spinal surgery

By Admin | April 03, 2022

Lupe Galeno Rodriguez is still cancer-free five years after undergoing the 28-hour surgery.

Spine surgeon owes $17M to paralyzed patient

By Admin | April 01, 2022

The lawsuit alleged, the doctor went into surgery without a plan to include decompression of the spinal column or another precaution called neurophysiological intraoperative monitoring.

Texas Federal Judge Rules Against HHS in Surprise Billing Lawsuit

By Admin | March 31, 2022

The judge sided with the Texas Medical Association in its surprise billing lawsuit that claimed the arbitration process in the HHS interim final rule goes against No Surprises Act policies.

The Impact of 2022’s Policy Changes on Your ASC’s Spine Program and How to Navigate the Change

By Admin | March 29, 2022

In recent years, more and more complex surgical spine procedures have migrated to the ambulatory surgery center (ASC).

NYU Langone Orthopedic Surgeons Present Latest Clinical Findings at the...

By Admin | March 27, 2022

...American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2022 Annual Meeting. Experts from NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery are presenting their latest clinical findings and research discoveries at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2022 annual meeting, March 22 to 26, in Chicago. Topics presented will include quality and access implications of regulatory changes related to total joint replacement; how multidisciplinary case conferences improve outcomes among high-risk spine surgeries; and using augmented reality to improve hip fracture repairs.

External Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage in the Management of Nonaneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

By Admin | March 25, 2022

This series focuses on our local experience with the application of external cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage in the management of a series of cases confirmed to be nonaneurysmal SAH and its effects on the outcome.

Illinois fines BCBS $339K after Springfield Clinic contract termination

By Admin | March 22, 2022

Illinois fines BCBS $339K after Springfield Clinic contract termination

Back pain: When to get help

By Admin | March 20, 2022

To get an idea of whether your symptoms warrant a visit to the doctor, answer the following questions.

Establishing a Reference Procedure Length for Anterior Cervical Fusions: The Role for Standards in Surgical Process Improvement

By Admin | March 18, 2022

Establishing a Reference Procedure Length for Anterior Cervical Fusions: The Role for Standards in Surgical Process Improvement

Relapses Contribute Significantly to Disability Worsening in Multiple Sclerosis

By Admin | March 15, 2022

​​Relapses contribute to the accumulation of disability in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the disability occurs primarily early in the disease

There's a new implant developed in Rhode Island to treat spine fractures

By Admin | March 12, 2022

There's a new -- first and only-one-of-its kind -- implant to treat spine fractures.

Lawsuits build against Aetna's spine surgery coverage

By Admin | March 10, 2022

Another lawsuit has been filed against Aetna Life Insurance, arguing that the insurer improperly limits coverage for lumbar artificial disc replacement by treating the procedures as experimental and investigational.

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion With Robotic-Assisted Percutaneous Screw Placement: A Case Report

By Admin | March 07, 2022

Recently, there has been an increase in robotic-assisted spine fusion for degenerative spondylosis of the lumbar spine. We present the case of a 60-year-old female with grade 1 spondylolisthesis at L4/5 and L5/S1 who underwent L4-S1 anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) with percutaneous robotic-assisted pedicle screw fixation.

Payers in spine surgery: A changing dynamic

By Admin | March 05, 2022

CMS and commercial payers are trending toward bundled payments as the healthcare industry shifts from fee for service toward value-based care, while the notion of a single-payer system continues to be tossed around but is unlikely to become a reality in the near future. Four spine surgeons discuss emerging payer trends in the markets that they operate.

Update on diagnostic, surgical backlog task force coming 'very soon': Gordon

By Admin | March 03, 2022

An update on how the government is addressing Manitoba’s diagnostic and surgical backlog due to the COVID-19 pandemic is coming soon to a news conference theatre near you, the province’s health minister says.

Surgical Treatment of Spinal Fracture in a Patient With Ankylosing Spondylitis

By Admin | March 01, 2022

An Opportunity To Correct Spinal Deformity Simultaneously With Fracture Fixation?

Commercial payers driving cases to ASCs; orthopedics most primed for growth

By Admin | February 28, 2022

A growing number of commercial insurers are revamping policies to push providers and patients out of the hospital and into ASCs, where procedures can be performed at a lower cost.

Dr. Ernest Braxton performs 1st awake robotic procedure of its kind in Colorado

By Admin | February 26, 2022

Ernest Braxton, MD, performed the first awake robot-assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in Colorado

Rise of the Machines: AI and Spine Surgery – Ian Buchanan MD

By Admin | February 24, 2022

Dr. Ian Buchanan, from the Mayo Clinic Florida Neurosurgery Department, giving a video lecture on AI in Spine Surgery

Mark Cuban is ready to buck healthcare's status quo

By Admin | February 22, 2022

Whether they take the form of pharmacy benefit managers or spokespeople, Mark Cuban cuts out middlemen

Cigna Removes Out of Network Payment Case to Federal Court

By Admin | February 20, 2022

On Tuesday a case was removed from the Superior Court of Los Angeles County...

St. Luke’s neurosurgeons teach high school students about spine surgery

By Admin | February 18, 2022

Students from the Perkiomen School in Pennsburg had an up-close and hands-on lesson in spine surgery

Spinal cord implants applications are growing: 3 updates

By Admin | February 16, 2022

Spinal cord implants have gained traction in recent months for their ability to...

Implanted spinal stimulation device allows patients to stand, walk and swim

By Admin | February 14, 2022

Swiss researchers report that the patients were able to do certain activities after just one day of practice.

“Not ‘if’ she will run again, but ‘when,"

By Admin | February 11, 2022

How One Surgeon’s Spine and Nerve Expertise Gave a Runner Her Active Lifestyle Back

Top-trained Spine Surgeons Provide Free Patient Guide for Artificial Disc Replacement

By Admin | February 08, 2022

"The traditional treatment for herniated discs has been spinal fusion, but with spinal fusion, you are locking two vertebrae together," Dr. Truumees explains. "Research has shown...

Face of Neurosurgery/Spine - D Magazine

By Admin | February 05, 2022

Dr. Luis Antonio Mignucci was the first board-certified neurosurgeon in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to complete a formal fellowship in...

A Comparison of Interobserver Reliability Between Orthopedic Surgeons Using the Centers for Disease Control Surgical Wound Class Definitions

By Admin | February 01, 2022

it is unknown whether the current system is reliable when considering orthopaedic surgeries

Spinal fluid abnormalities linked to COVID-19 long haulers' brain fog, study finds

By Admin | January 29, 2022

Researchers at the University of California San Francisco and Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City found a link between people with post-recovery brain fog and abnormalities in their spinal fluid that surrounds the brain.

Treating Iatrogenic Spinal Ischemia Is a Work in Progress

By Admin | January 24, 2022

A new study looked back ten years to try to understand treatment choices and their related outcomes for iatrogenic spinal ischemia

FDA Lifts Restrictions on Spinal Cord Stimulation System

By Admin | January 22, 2022

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved updated labeling that expands MRI compatibility for Abbot’s Proclaim XR spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system, the company announced.

DOES THE SIZE OF THE OR INCREASE INFECTION RATES?

By Admin | January 20, 2022

A new retrospective cohort study of 11,163 patients who’d been treated with orthopedic surgery between January 2018 and January 2020

FDA Approves Virtual Reality System for Treating Lower Back Pain

By Admin | January 17, 2022

The FDA recently authorized the marketing of a prescription only virtual reality system that uses cognitive-behavioral therapy and other behavioral methods for the relief of chronic lower back pain. Clinicians want to know more about how it works and how much it costs before prescribing.

Time to Review Role of Cross-Link Augmentation?

By Admin | January 13, 2022

A wise man once said, the only constant is change. So, is it time to review the role of cross-link instrumentation for posterior decompression of highly unstable vertebral segments?

Abbott's Proclaim™ XR Spinal Cord Stimulation System Now Offers Expanded MRI Compatibility in U.S.

By Admin | January 09, 2022

Expanded MRI compatibility allows more patients to obtain necessary scans and increases efficiencies for radiologists

Spinal fusions at HOPDs increase after CMS approval for ASCs

By Admin | January 07, 2022

Outpatient cervical and lumbar fusions jumped at hospital-outpatient departments after CMS approved the procedures for ASCs while the procedure rate had little or no growth in...

How to Prepare for Invasive Neurosurgery

By Admin | January 04, 2022

A patient who prepares—both body and mind—for the procedure and recovery, has a leg up in the healing journey

AAOS Challenges CMS Over No Surprises Act Implementation

By Admin | January 01, 2022

The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has issued a letter which takes exception and raises the alarm regarding CMS’ proposed implementation of the Surprise Billing

Surgeons speak out: Advocacy efforts from spine, orthopedic physicians in 2021

By Admin | December 30, 2021

Spine and orthopedic surgeons banded together to voice their opinions on legislation concerning CMS, surprise billing and more in 2021.

Relieving Spinal Pain with Epidural Steroid Injections

By Admin | December 29, 2021

Epidural steroid injections are a minimally invasive option for people experiencing spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and so much more...

Study Assessing Patient-Reported and Surgical Outcomes of Minimally Invasive versus Open Lumbar Spinal Fusion

By Admin | December 27, 2021

With the growing number of justifications for and popularity of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for lumbar spinal fusion, a large-scale outcomes study comparing MIS, and conventional procedures is necessary.

Senate pressed to pass Medicare bill, but physicians wary of 'another Band-Aid fix'

By Admin | December 24, 2021

Physicians are urging the Senate to pass a bill to avert billions of dollars in Medicare cuts from taking place Jan. 1.

Illinois Bone & Joint Institute's André Blom on physician leadership, risks in the field & the COVID-19 effect

By Admin | December 20, 2021

Effective leadership and a team mindset will continue to be crucial at orthopedic practices, particularly as the field continues to deal with...

Greater odds of overall satisfaction three months after lumbar fusion when surgery is minimally invasive

By Admin | December 18, 2021

Researchers compared outcomes in two groups of patients surgically treated with lumbar fusion for degenerative spine disease. One group had undergone minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and the other open surgery.

How spine practices can maintain independence: 3 surgeon insights

By Admin | December 15, 2021

Rising overhead and decreasing reimbursements continue to challenge independent practices as consolidation continues to take hold across the healthcare industry.

Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury Near the Nerve Entry Point in Total Endoscopic Thyroidectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

By Admin | December 12, 2021

Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (RLNI) still occurs in total endoscopic thyroidectomy (TET) by using intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM).

The Great Resignation: The Workforce Exodus Hits Neurology Practice and Research

By Admin | December 10, 2021

Neurology practices, hospitals, and academic institutions across the country are experiencing severe workflow disruptions as a result of hiring and recruitment challenges post-COVID-19

Texas neurosurgeon's bill allows certain physicians to bypass prior authorization

By Admin | December 05, 2021

Certain physicians in Texas no longer require approval from insurers for some medical procedures, treatments or drugs thanks to a new law that took effect Sept. 1, according to Houston Public Media.

Technology to treat neurological diseases, pain wins Indiana fund’s commercialization award

By Admin | December 02, 2021

“Our initial target is neuropathic pain in spinal cord injury, a largely unmet medical challenge, but our solution...

A breakdown of 3 high-profile cervical discs

By Admin | November 27, 2021

Artificial disc replacement technology has made significant strides in 2021.

New CPT Add-on Code Accepted for Second Level of Lumbar Total Disc Replacement Procedures

By Admin | November 24, 2021

The American Medical Association announced that it has accepted a new CPT add-on code for the second level of lumbar total disc replacement (TDR) procedures

Amazing success’: Awake spinal fusion at St. Vincent’s thought to be first in New England

By Admin | November 22, 2021

Neurosurgeon Dr. Vijay Yanamadala speaks about an innovative awake spinal fusion surgery

Mouse Study Points to Possible Breakthrough Against Spinal Cord Injury

By Admin | November 20, 2021

Severe spinal cord injuries are incurable today in humans, but a new injectable therapy that restored motion in laboratory mice could pave the way for healing paralyzed people

Augmented Reality technology paves the way for safer spine surgery

By Admin | November 17, 2021

This novel technology can make complex surgery safer and more accurate by improving surgeons' visualization of anatomy and critical structures.

Physician pay cuts are another threat to independent practices

By Admin | November 15, 2021

On Nov. 2, Medicare announced that surgeons will see a 9 percent cut in payment for medical services starting...

Neurosurgical procedure grants veteran pain relief, new paths

By Admin | November 12, 2021

Under the right circumstances, surgery can make a significant difference in helping people with lumbar stenosis

Johnson & Johnson to split into 2 companies

By Admin | November 10, 2021

Johnson & Johnson is dividing into two separate companies; one will focus on its medical devices and drugs, and the other will focus on...

7 musculoskeletal codes will not return to the IPO list in 2022, CMS says

By Admin | November 09, 2021

On Jan. 1, 2021, in accordance with the 2021 OPPS/ASC final rule, CMS removed 298 codes, including 266 musculoskeletal-related services, from...

Medicare cuts ignore realities of pandemic and will harm patient care

By Admin | November 06, 2021

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2021 -- The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) final rule released today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) doubles down on the harmful 3.75 percent cut to surgeons and...

A new era in spinal fusion: 3 surgeons weigh in on the emergence of osteoimmunology and bone graft technology

By Admin | November 03, 2021

Over the past few decades, rates of spinal fusions have steadily risen. However, pseudarthrosis rates— an indicator of unsuccessful spinal fusion — have not improved enough in...

'The field of spine surgery will be completely taken over by neurosurgery': What we heard from experts in October

By Admin | October 31, 2021

Spine and orthopedic experts and leaders spoke with Becker's Spine Review on a range of topics in October, from awake spine surgery to...

Dr. Haqqani: Research shows promise for new lower back pain relief

By Admin | October 27, 2021

New research conducted by Stanford University Medicine and supported by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Tens of thousands of radiologists and other docs align in opposing surprise-billing provision

By Admin | October 26, 2021

The Biden administration revealed its interim final rule on outlining how the feds plan to settle payment disputes between payers and out-of-network providers.

Axis Fourth IONM Diploma Course (Jan-July 2022). Register before Nov 15, 2021.

By Admin | October 24, 2021

Registration is open now for the Fourth Axis Neuromonitoring 'Surgical Neurophysiology Diploma Course'. This online course is being offered to train the Senior IONM Specialists /Technologists in Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM).

One Big Factor for Survival After Spinal Cord Injury: Resilience

By Admin | October 23, 2021

Survivors of spinal cord injuries who develop resilience are able to adapt and thrive despite the challenges, according to a researcher who himself is a resilient survivor.

NOVEL BIOGLASS FIBER BONE GRAFT: 96.3% SPINE FUSION

By Admin | October 20, 2021

New Providence, New Jersey-based Prosidyan, Inc. has announced a new study that provides evidence that its bioactive glass fiber-based bone graft substitute can achieve a 96.3% rate of spine fusion

3 surgeons’ predictions about value-based care, including how curbing costs could deny patients access

By Admin | October 18, 2021

Some spine surgeons say value-based care will grow with increased specialization of care delivery. Others argue value-based care poses conflicts for some patients and physicians.

Patients Help Correct Their Own Spine Using Conservative Treatments

By Admin | October 16, 2021

An estimated 80% of the population will suffer from back pain during their lives. Scoliosis, a potentially painful back condition, will affect 3% of the population, or around nine million people

8 patent battles involving spine, orthopedic companies

By Admin | October 12, 2021

Patent infringement disputes are rife within the medtech industry this year. Here are eight cases involving spine and orthopedic companies.

Remote-controlled surgeries and medical procedures on the horizon

By Admin | October 08, 2021

Doctors are experimenting with the potential to perform complex medical procedures remotely.

Patients with cervical disease may have high levels of preoperative psychological distress

By Admin | October 03, 2021

Results showed an overall higher level of psychological distress at baseline among patients undergoing surgery for cervical degenerative disease compared with...

The changes spine surgeons are advocating for in healthcare today

By Admin | September 25, 2021

From fighting to maintain access to innovative technologies to pushing back against reimbursement cuts and increasing payer hurdles, the concerns of spine surgeons...

No regrets about dropping bundled payments, Rothman Orthopaedics president says

By Admin | September 19, 2021

Although Philadelphia-based Rothman Orthopaedics has eliminated bundled payments, its president, Alexander Vaccaro, MD, PhD, said using them is still worth it for some practices.

The biggest opportunities in spine from 9 surgeons

By Admin | September 16, 2021

From innovations in biologic treatments to physician advocacy and migrating cases to the outpatient setting, nine spine surgeons discuss the biggest opportunities in the field today.

Dr. Chetan Patel on Developing Augmented Reality Eyeglasses for Surgeons

By Admin | September 13, 2021

In the operating room, a surgeon’s every move is critical. Some surgeries, such as spinal procedures, require not only focus and precision, but also for a physician to simultaneously look at both the patient and a computer to guide...

Orthopedic exec gets 8 months in prison for role in kickback scheme

By Admin | September 09, 2021

Bruce Thomas, the owner of Pinnacle Orthopedic Services, an orthopedic devices and orthotics company, was sentenced to eight months in prison Sept. 10 for his role in...

'Unjustified and unnecessary': 3 surgeons on prior authorization rules in spine

By Admin | September 05, 2021

Prior authorization is a contentious issue in spine care at the moment. Beginning July 1, CMS will require the policy for cervical fusion with disc removal and implanted spinal neurostimulators, which physicians say...

Neurosurgeon reverses 3-level cervical fusion with artificial discs

By Admin | August 30, 2021

Neurosurgeon Todd Lanman, MD, became the first in the U.S. to restore motion at three contiguous levels in a patient's cervical spine.

'Doctors and hospitals are not in the blame and punishment business'

By Admin | August 26, 2021

Should a hospital running low on beds and staff prioritize vaccinated COVID-19 patients before their unvaccinated counterparts?

Twin sisters develop app to help people with scoliosis

By Admin | August 23, 2021

Twin sisters Hadley and Delaney Robertson created the BraceTrack app to help people who use scoliosis braces.

AI, augmented reality assist surgeons perform 14-level spinal fusion

By Admin | August 20, 2021

Ehsan Jazini, MD, and Christopher Good, MD, used patient-specific spinal rods and an artificial intelligence-derived preoperative surgical plan to operate on a 17-year-old scoliosis patient in Virginia.

3 insurers disputing patients in alleged wrongful denials for spine surgery claims

By Admin | August 16, 2021

From an artificial disc replacement lawsuit revived against a commercial payer to a spine device that was allegedly wrongfully denied coverage, here are three insurers involved in spine-related court cases:

Bright Ideas in Neurological Devices

By Admin | August 13, 2021

Neurological devices aim to treat some of the most challenging health conditions. According to FDA, “neurological devices can help...

Spine surgeons create guide to inform patients about artificial disc replacement

By Admin | August 10, 2021

A group of spine surgeons created a patient guide that outlines when a person should consider artificial disc replacement and when to see a physician for herniated disc symptoms.

How technology, CMS are affecting site of service in spine surgery

By Admin | August 09, 2021

As spine surgery continues to accelerate towards the outpatient space, it is becoming more evident that fewer procedures will be performed in...

3 insurers disputing patients in alleged wrongful denials for spine surgery claims

By Admin | August 06, 2021

From an artificial disc replacement lawsuit revived against a commercial payer to a spine device that was allegedly wrongfully denied coverage, here are three insurers involved in spine-related court cases:

Telemedicine in Neurosurgery: Standardizing the Spinal Physical Examination Using A Modified Delphi Method

By Admin | August 05, 2021

The use of telemedicine has dramatically increased due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Many neurosurgeons are now using telemedicine technologies for...

Insurer sued for allegedly refusing to cover spinal stabilization device

By Admin | August 03, 2021

A Florida woman is suing Anthem, alleging that the insurance company didn't cover a spine device that should have been covered...

71 spine procedures CMS may not pay for at ASCs in 2022

By Admin | August 02, 2021

ASC administrators are dismayed by CMS' proposal to bump 298 musculoskeletal-related procedures back to its inpatient-only list next year.

CMS won't delay prior authorizations for outpatient cervical fusions

By Admin | July 31, 2021

CMS forged ahead July 1 with a prior authorization requirement for cervical fusion procedures despite protest from several organizations.

Patient care under continued threat in proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

By Admin | July 29, 2021

Surgical Care Coalition urges Congress to address systemic challenges to stop the annual reductions in patient care

HCG Cancer Centre Borivali Successfully Initiates D Wave Spinal Neuro-Monitoring Technique For Enhanced Safety Of Spinal Cord Surgery, A First In Mumbai

By Admin | July 27, 2021

Harshali, 18 years old, was brought to HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali with difficulty walking. She was bed-ridden for almost a month and a half and without proper intervention, her future was bound to be in a wheelchair. After consulting multiple hospitals, she was referred to Dr. Mohinish Bhatjiwale, a renowned and one of the best neurological surgeons in the country by a family friend. Under his supervision, a thorough examination of the patient was done and an MRI scan revealed the young girl had been suffering from...

This Is What Happened To Christopher Duntsch After The Events Of Dr. Death

By Admin | July 24, 2021

Peacock’s new crime drama Dr. Death dramatizes the true story of Christopher Duntsch, a former Dallas-based neurosurgeon who was sentenced to life in prison after a string of his patients were maimed, paralyzed, or died under his care.

Impact of inhalational anesthetic agents on the baseline monitorability of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) during spine surgery: A review of 22,755 cervical and lumbar procedures.

By Admin | July 22, 2021

During spine surgery, motor evoked potentials (MEPs) are often utilized to monitor both spinal cord function and spinal nerve root or plexus function. While there are reports evaluating the impact of anesthesia on the reliability of MEPs to monitor spinal cord function, less is known about the impact of anesthetics on the ability of MEPs to monitor spinal nerve root and plexus function.

New Generation Artificial Heart Implanted in Patient at Duke – First in U.S.

By Admin | July 19, 2021

DURHAM, N.C. -- A surgical team at Duke University Hospital, led by Drs. Jacob Schroder and Carmelo Milano, successfully implanted a new-generation artificial heart in a 39-year-old man with heart failure, becoming the first center...

Arkansas Neurosurgeon Successfully Implants His 400th ENZA-A Titanium ALIF Implant

By Admin | July 16, 2021

Camber Spine, a leading innovator in spine and medical technologies, has announced that Dr. James B. Blankenship, MD, a neurosurgical specialist practicing at the Neurosurgery Spine Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas, has now successfully implanted his 400th ENZA-A Titanium ALIF implant.

Research Aims to Clarify Swallowing Problems After Elective Spine Surgery

By Admin | July 10, 2021

NYU Langone researchers aim to understand chronic dysphagia and dysphonia that may follow anterior cervical discectomy and fusion spine surgery.

Meet the new president of ISASS

By Admin | July 03, 2021

Domagoj Coric, MD, will be the 2021-22 president of The International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery, the organization announced June 9. Dr. Coric is a spinal neurosurgeon specializing in artificial disc replacement, spine trauma, tumors and adult reconstructive spine surgery. He received his medical degree and completed his residency at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, N.C.

Neurosurgeons: Surgery May Not Be Necessary, But Don’t Ignore Back, Neck Symptoms

By Admin | June 30, 2021

How do you know if your chronic back or neck pain — or that radiating pain that can be felt in the arms or legs — requires surgery? That is a very common question heard by neurosurgeons, who often provide non-surgical solutions to these conditions.

2 Michigan Medicine physicians on hurdles to diversity in orthopedics

By Admin | June 28, 2021

Michelle Caird, MD, became the chair of orthopedic surgery at Michigan Medicine in May, and she brings to the role a unique perspective, being one of few female orthopedic surgeons in the U.S.

The Use of Skin Staples as Fiducial Markers to Confirm Intraoperative Spinal Navigation Registration and Accuracy

By Admin | June 25, 2021

With the advent of intraoperative computed tomography (CT) for image guidance, numerous examples of accurate navigation being applied to cranial and spinal pathology have come to light.

Dr. Alex Vaccaro on volume vs. value in spine care

By Admin | June 24, 2021

The U.S. healthcare system continues its push away from a fee-for-service system toward value-based care, but providers and payers can't seem to agree on a universal definition for value-based care.

This tech uses augmented reality to give surgeons 'superpowers'

By Admin | June 22, 2021

Last June, Dr. Timothy Witham at John Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, conducted the first spinal neuro-navigation procedure guided by augmented reality.

3 reasons why spine surgery will continue moving to ambulatory surgery center settings

By Admin | June 10, 2021

Currently, there are more than 160 outpatient spine surgery facilities in the U.S., and the spine Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) market is expected to grow 200%1 over the next few years.

'Dr. Death' Trailer Finds Joshua Jackson Playing a Sociopathic Surgeon on Peacock

By Admin | June 03, 2021

Dr. Death is based on the hit Wondery podcast of the same name and inspired by the terrifying true story of Dr. Christopher Duntsch (Jackson)

Medical groups endorse legislation to reform prior authorization

By Admin | June 01, 2021

The AMA and other professional organizations endorsed the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, which would streamline prior authorizations for...

Neurosurgical group, hospital to pay $10M for alleged improper billing

By Admin | May 28, 2021

Phoenix-based Neurosurgical Associates and Dignity Health's St. Joseph's Hospital agreed to pay $10 million to settle allegations of improper billings.

How bundled payments are changing the market

By Admin | May 24, 2021

The success of bundled payments hinges on a variety of factors — some ASC leaders are wary, while others have found success in value-based payments.

Study highlights the psychological and social concerns of musculoskeletal trauma patients

By Admin | May 17, 2021

Musculoskeletal injuries comprise a large percentage of hospital admissions for adults and often lead to chronic pain and long-term disability. A new review article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons® (JAAOS®) recognizes the intimate connection between patients who sustain traumatic orthopedic injuries and their subsequent psychological effects. The results suggest...

Neurological symptoms with COVID-19 serve as 'important predictor' of poor outcomes

By Admin | May 14, 2021

Patients with COVID-19 and certain neurological problems had longer hospital lengths of stay and higher in-hospital mortality, among other adverse outcomes, according to findings...

Awake TLIF Can Be Worth the Investment

By Admin | May 11, 2021

Awake TLIF takes minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery one step further and eliminates general anesthesia in favor of local.

AAOS response letter to Cigna Healthcare's inquiry regarding coverage for Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring

By Admin | May 09, 2021

Dear Dr. Mino, On behalf of over 34,000 orthopaedic surgeons and residents represented by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), we appreciate the opportunity to respond to your inquiry regarding Cigna’s revision of coverage for intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring (IONM) during cervical spine surgery. These following specialty societies fully endorse our position...

What are the biggest payer problems for orthopedic practices?

By Admin | May 07, 2021

Understanding how to navigate payer relationships is critical for orthopedic practices to succeed. Three surgeons spoke...

Spine surgery patient prevails in payment denial suit against insurer

By Admin | May 05, 2021

A North Carolina woman's health plan was ordered to cover her spine surgery after a district court found the insurer failed to provide...

New potential for functional recovery after spinal cord injury

By Admin | May 03, 2021

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have successfully reprogrammed a glial cell type in the central nervous system into new neurons to promote recovery after spinal cord injury, revealing...

Safest OR Ever! Getting There…Inaugural Safety in Spine Surgery

By Admin | April 29, 2021

After April 2021 there will be no more patients injured during the course of spine surgery.

How NASS plans to advocate for physicians and patients this year

By Admin | April 28, 2021

Prior authorization remains a key focus for the North American Spine Society's advocacy efforts this year. The organization also has its eyes on enhancing a bill to protect...

Assessing Bone Health for Spinal Fusion: Novel Technique

By Admin | April 26, 2021

A new method for evaluating microscopic bone health prior to—and predicting complications after—spinal fusion?

Man in car crash slapped with $700K+ bill after spine surgery

By Admin | April 23, 2021

A 59-year-old New Jersey man was billed more than $700,000 after having complex spine surgery following a vehicle crash, exposing gaps between...

The biggest challenges in spine from 9 surgeons: Drs. Alexander Vaccaro, Michael Musacchio & more

By Admin | April 18, 2021

From prior authorization requirements to value-based care initiatives and payer battles, nine spine leaders discuss the biggest challenges affecting their practice today.

Spine procedure wRVUs undervalued, study finds

By Admin | April 15, 2021

A study published in a recent issue of the International Journal of Spine Surgery found the work relative value units assigned to open decompression and interlaminar stabilization are undervalued.

Prior authorization will slap more hurdles on orthopedic care, providers say

By Admin | April 12, 2021

Orthopedic providers are pushing back against incoming prior authorization requirements, which they say bring increased administrative burdens and take away from time with patients.

July 1 too soon for new spine prior authorization rules, surgeons tell CMS

By Admin | April 09, 2021

Medical device companies and surgeons are banding together to ask CMS to roll back new prior authorization requirements set to go into effect July 1.

Longer stay, greater costs related to late-week laminectomy & discharge to specialty care

By Admin | April 07, 2021

New research by a team from the Cleveland Clinic and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has determined that surgeries performed late in the workweek, and those culminating in...

HOW MUCH BETTER IS EVIDENCE BASED SPINE SURGERY?

By Admin | April 05, 2021

Ok. The answer to this question may, at first glance, appear to be self evident. Sort of like: Is the Pope Catholic? Or...

The next 3 years in spine: What will gain ground on fusion?

By Admin | April 03, 2021

Outpatient surgery and fewer fusions are likely the future of spine surgery, according to Peter Derman, MD, a spine surgeon with Texas Back Institute in Plano.

Reduce Your Risk of COVID-19 During Spine Surgery

By Admin | April 01, 2021

At the start of 2020, healthcare workers felt desperate for accurate information on how to protect themselves and their patients from the novel coronavirus. What a difference a year makes.

Assessing Bone Health for Spinal Fusion: Novel Technique

By Admin | March 28, 2021

A new method for evaluating microscopic bone health prior to—and predicting complications after—spinal fusion? An expert on the technique, called high-resolution quantitative computed tomography, weighs in.

Spine care delivery will look very different in 5 years: 10 surgeon insights

By Admin | March 24, 2021

From multidisciplinary spine centers to the continued growth of telehealth and rapid migration to the outpatient setting, 10 surgeons outline how spine care delivery will evolve in the next five years.

When to Use Neuromonitoring in Spine Surgery

By Admin | March 19, 2021

Spine surgery, as with any surgery, carries the risk of complications. Though rare, neurological injury has the potential of incurring serious sensory and motor injuries. Due to the nature of complications that can occur with spine surgery, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM), or neuromonitoring, is increasingly being used to avoid post-surgical neurological complications.

Mark Kuper, MD, of Texas Center for Orthopedic and Spinal Disorders in Fort Worth was sentenced Feb. 25 to 10 years in prison for his role in a $10 million healthcare fraud scheme.

By Admin | March 12, 2021

The owner of Texas Center for Orthopedic and Spinal Disorders in Fort Worth was sentenced Feb. 25 to 10 years in prison for his role in a $10 million healthcare fraud scheme.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for March 3, 2021

By Admin | March 04, 2021

Senate Concurrent Resolution 15 designates June of every year as Scoliosis Awareness Month. For those unfamiliar with it, scoliosis is the abnormal curvature of the spine, and is often diagnosed in children and...

Shared Decision-Making Empowers Patients with Information and Options to Benefit Bone and Joint Care

By Admin | March 01, 2021

The importance of involving patients in the decision-making process for orthopaedic surgical procedures is the focus of a new review article published in the December issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons® (JAAOS). The literature review took a close look at the concept and practice of shared decision-making (SDM) and the ways it empowers

Minimum Seven-Year Follow-Up Outcomes of Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy for Lumbar Degenerative Disease

By Admin | February 25, 2021

Purpose: To investigate the long-term (> 7 years) clinical outcomes of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy for lumbar degenerative disease to address postoperative problems including postoperative dysesthesia (POD), residual back pain and...

These CMS changes would significantly improve spine care: 6 surgeons weigh in

By Admin | February 18, 2021

From revamping codes to reversing prior authorization requirements and increasing reimbursement, six spine surgeons discuss CMS changes that would enhance spine care.

How a single-payer system would affect spine care: 5 surgeons weigh in

By Admin | February 15, 2021

Many surgeons believe a single-payer healthcare system would decrease spine payments toward current Medicare rates and payments and limit access to care. Here, five surgeons share their thoughts on how a single-payer system would affect spine practice.

Spine surgical site infections vary significantly by level, study finds

By Admin | February 09, 2021

Individualized infection prevention strategies tailored to operative level are needed in spine surgery, according to...

Cross-disciplinary team will design, develop devices to better treat spinal cord injuries

By Admin | February 02, 2021

A team of Johns Hopkins biomedical engineers and neurosurgeons has received $13.48 million from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to develop implantable ultrasound and other devices that could revolutionize care for people suffering from spinal cord injuries. The results could benefit thousands of U.S. service members and civilians who sustain spinal cord injuries every year. The electronic device will be the size and flexibility of...

Texas Governor Abbott Appoints Six To Medical Board Committee

By Admin | January 27, 2021

Austin, TX (STL.News) Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Ada Booth, M.D. and Walton “Boyd” Bush, Ed.D. to the Texas Medical Board District Four Review Committee for terms set to expire on January 15, 2022. Additionally, he appointed Leanne Burnett, M.D., and reappointed Philip “Phil” Worley for terms set to expire on January 15, 2024 and appointed Ruth Villarreal and Andrew “Jimmy” Widmer, M.D. for...

The Importance of Simulation Training in Healthcare

By Admin | January 21, 2021

One of the ways to enhance clinical competence is through Medical Simulation training. The training has been proven to have many advantages that help improve medical practitioners’ competencies, and in return, improve patient safety and reduce health care costs.

Top-Trained Spine Surgeons Advise on CentersforArtificialDisc.com When to Consider Artificial Disc Replacement in 2021

By Admin | January 18, 2021

If you've been told you have a herniated disc, you probably have also been told you need a spinal fusion, which up to a year ago has been the traditional treatment for herniated discs. However,...

AXIS 2021 Annual Virtual IONM Symposium Live Zoom Event

By Admin | January 15, 2021

The AXIS 2021 Annual Virtual IONM Symposium Live Zoom Event is Only Two Weeks Away. Register Today!

Surgical Planning, Next-Generation Technology Enable Treatment of Rare Spinal Tumor

By Admin | January 14, 2021

When a patient with intensifying neuromuscular symptoms was diagnosed with an aggressive malignant tumor in a highly vascularized location, a multidisciplinary surgical team mobilized to plan a swift intervention and execute a high-risk surgery.

Congress Protects Patients and Delays Medicare Payment Cuts; Still More Work to Be Done

By Admin | January 13, 2021

Congress voted to protect patients' access to surgical care by delaying steep Medicare payment cuts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that it included in the 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS), according to the...

A silent spine-related epidemic building up, warns doctor

By Admin | January 10, 2021

Noting that the prevalence of spine problems has increased manifold during the COVID-19 lockdown, a senior Delhi-based doctor says that looking at the increasing number of spine-related cases, it would not be an overstatement to say that there is a silent epidemic building up. The associated factor is the forced sedentary lifestyle, and prolonged sitting, lack of exercise and poor activity. Poor understanding of spine ergonomics leads to improper...

As COVID Hospitalizations Surge, Texas Health Again Halts Elective Procedures

By Admin | January 07, 2021

SMS In North Texas, COVID-19 patients make up more than a quarter of all of those in the hospital. More than half of all intensive care unit patients are being treated for...

Stroke and altered mental state increase risk of death for COVID-19 patients

By Admin | January 04, 2021

People hospitalized with COVID-19 and neurological problems including stroke and confusion have a higher risk of dying than other COVID-19 patients, according to a study published online today by researchers at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the journal Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. These findings have the potential to identify...

Shared Decision-Making Empowers Patients with Information and Options to Benefit Bone and Joint Care

By Admin | January 01, 2021

ROSEMONT, Ill., /PRNewswire/ -- The importance of involving patients in the decision-making process for orthopaedic surgical procedures is the focus of a new review article published in the December issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons® (JAAOS). The literature review took a close look at the concept and practice of shared decision-making (SDM) and the ways it empowers

Dr. Wael Barsoum: What the Biden presidency could mean for orthopedics

By Admin | December 23, 2020

As an orthopedic surgeon and veteran healthcare executive, Wael Barsoum, MD, sees the Biden administration taking steps to accelerate population health in orthopedics.

Spinal Cord Stimulation Reduces Pain and Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease Patients

By Admin | December 18, 2020

A team of researchers in the United States and Japan reports that spinal cord stimulation (SCS) measurably decreased pain and reduced motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, both as a singular therapy and as a “salvage therapy” after deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapies were ineffective...

Artificial Intelligence Fuels Unprecedented Neurosurgical Progress, with Broad Potential Impact

By Admin | December 09, 2020

An AI-assisted platform for spine surgery, currently under development, will subsume methods to stratify risk, predict outcomes, and...

New Spinal Fusion Surgery Technique Leads to Better Outcomes, Reduced Operating Room Time & Length of Stay for Patients

By Admin | December 03, 2020

A novel approach to spinal fusion surgery results in a reduction of blood loss during surgery and less ileus, or intestinal blockage, postoperatively, as well as reduced operative times and hospital stays, according to a new study from researchers at NYU Langone Health published in The Spine Journal online November 13. Spinal fusion, a surgery which connects two or more vertebrae in the spine to treat degenerative or deformity-related spinal conditions such as spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and spondylolisthesis, has traditionally been performed using...

Cross-disciplinary team will design, develop devices to better treat spinal cord injuries

By Admin | November 25, 2020

A team of Johns Hopkins biomedical engineers and neurosurgeons has received $13.48 million from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to develop implantable ultrasound and other devices that could revolutionize care for people suffering from spinal cord injuries. The results could benefit thousands of U.S. service members and civilians who sustain spinal cord injuries every year. The electronic device will be the size and flexibility of...

Congress Must Act To Fortify Health Care System And Protect Access To Care

By Admin | November 18, 2020

The final 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) issued today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) failed to provide relief from a significant shift in physician and non-physician payments expected to take effect on January 1, 2021. Thousands of comments submitted by providers, patients, and Members of Congress highlighted the importance of mitigating payment cuts associated with budget neutrality requirements triggered by higher payment and modified reporting requirements for evaluation and management (E/M) services. Due to CMS's unresponsiveness to address these concerns, organizations representing more than 1 million physicians and...

The R.I.C.E Protocol is a MYTH: A Review and Recommendations

By Admin | November 12, 2020

The RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol has been the preferred method of treatment for acute musculoskeletal injuries since its origin in a 1978 publication entitled “Sports Medicine Book” by Dr. Gabe Mirkin. These guidelines have been used by coaches and healthcare providers for over four decades with the intent of expediting the recovery process and reducing inflammation. Although popular...

Spinal deformity will be the next robotic evolution, says Dr. Raymond Walkup

By Admin | November 08, 2020

Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery Center was among the first ASCs to perform robotic spine surgery with the ExcelsiusGPS system, which it acquired in 2018. The practice remains at the forefront of robotic spine surgery and...

4th Saudi Spine Society Annual Conference - Sat Nov 7th - Course Director -Dr. Faisal Riaz Jahangiri

By Admin | November 05, 2020

The 4th Saudi Spine Society Annual Conference - This Sat Nov 7th - Course Director -Dr. Faisal Riaz Jahangiri

UHealth Spine Surgeon First in Florida to Use New Augmented Reality

By Admin | November 03, 2020

October 20, 2020 - Renowned Spine Surgeon Michael Wang, M.D. professor of neurological surgery and chief of neurosurgery at UHealth Tower—the flagship hospital of the University of Miami Health System--has performed a spinal surgery using special goggles with augmented reality (AR) technology that provides surgeons with 3-D, x-ray vision.

Tarrant County Jury Awards $9.2M to Man Left Paralyzed After Spinal Surgery

By Admin | October 31, 2020

FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 31, 2022 -- The trial lawyers of the Law Offices of Laird & McCloskey secured a unanimous $9,245,429 verdict on behalf of a 52-year-old patient left a paraplegic following a botched 2017 surgery.

Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas Simplifies Pre and Postoperative Services Through Telehealth

By Admin | October 28, 2020

Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas (MINT) has proactively adapted to a new ‘normal’ lifestyle during COVID-19 by employing technology to better serve its patients.

Mobile-based medical reservists trained for combat describe front lines of COVID-19 crisis in Texas

By Admin | October 25, 2020

Marcelo Gerjoi and Duncan Crow have trained to provide emergency medical services during combat. Their deployment to Texas over the summer as part of a COVID-19 response unit was not a war, but at times, it must have felt like...

Dr. Baron Lonner touts benefits of vertebral body tethering

By Admin | October 18, 2020

Vertebral body tethering, a novel minimally invasive surgery for scoliosis, is helping some patients get back to activity in half the time of those who...

Fluoroscopic glasses demonstrate promise for spine surgery, study finds

By Admin | October 14, 2020

A new device that attaches to eyeglasses has been designed to provide fluoroscopic guidance during spine surgery, Medical Xpress reports.

Robotics is the next step for spine, total joints: 3 administrators weigh in

By Admin | October 10, 2020

Robotics is picking up steam in spine and orthopedics, with emerging surgeons particularly drawn to the latest technologies in their specialties.

Dr. Ernest Braxton offers awake spinal fusion to patients in Colorado

By Admin | October 07, 2020

Ernest Braxton, MD, former chief of neurosurgery at San Antonio Military Medical Center, is one of a handful of surgeons offering awake spinal fusions in the U.S., The Aspen Times reports.

Bills in Congress look at the future of telehealth

By Admin | October 01, 2020

The use of telehealth has become a common practice during the pandemic. Now, some doctors hope it continues to be...

Trump signs executive orders on healthcare: 6 things to know

By Admin | September 25, 2020

President Donald Trump on Sept. 24 signed two executive orders implementing his "America First Healthcare Plan."

Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery at University of Miami Health System

By Admin | September 22, 2020

Sandra Grant, 62, still struggles with the memory of the back pain that made it almost impossible for her to get through the workday. “I just felt so embarrassed,” she says. “It bothered me that my coworkers could see me in pain.” Sandra says her pain also made her feel her job was at risk. After pain management treatments...

Predicting poor pain control following elective spine surgery

By Admin | September 20, 2020

Researchers at the University of Calgary have developed and validated a clinical prediction scale that can be used to determine which patients are more likely to experience inadequate pain control following elective spine surgery.

Texas neurosurgeon removes 'lemon-sized' tumor from man's spine in complex case

By Admin | September 18, 2020

Dallas-based neurosurgeon Ricky Kalra, MD, recently removed a "lemon-sized" tumor from a patient's spine in a complex procedure that lasted almost 10 hours, NBC affiliate DFW reports.

Neurosurgical Focus dives into anterior thoracolumbar spine surgery

By Admin | September 16, 2020

The September issue of Neurosurgical Focus focuses on anterior approaches to thoracolumbar spine surgery. Although anterior spine surgery has been around for a while, the adoption of anterior approaches has been restricted by the "perceived morbidity of these techniques compared to

7 hospitals (4 in Texas) have achieved DNV GL's Orthopaedic Center of Excellence designation

By Admin | September 15, 2020

In 2018, accreditation company DNV GL Healthcare began offering its Orthopaedic Center of Excellence designation for hospitals certified in three of its four orthopedic service line programs — spine surgery, hip and knee replacement, shoulder surgery, and foot and ankle surgery.

First-Ever Study on Restoration of Spinal Motion by Drs. Todd Lanman and Jason Cuellar Shows Conversion of Fusion to Artificial Disc Replacement Successful

By Admin | September 13, 2020

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 28, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- For the first-time. a new study has been published in the International Journal of Spine Surgery, authored by Drs. Todd H. Lanman and Jason Cuellar, MD, documenting the successful outcome of a conversion of an Anterior Cervical Fusion to Artificial Disc Replacement.

Senate GOP unveils scaled-back COVID-19 relief package

By Admin | September 10, 2020

The Senate will vote Sept. 10 on a slimmed-down COVID-19 relief bill, according to The Hill. Senate Republicans released the roughly $500 billion package Sept. 8. It is about half of...

Pandemic Fallout: 16,000 Physicians Close Practices After Staff and Income Reductions

By Admin | September 08, 2020

Dallas-based physician search agency Merritt Hawkins found that 59 percent of physicians think COVID-19 will cause independent physician practices to close in its national biennial survey.

Recovery protocol cuts opioid use after elective neurosurgery

By Admin | September 06, 2020

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols can reduce postoperative use of opioids in patients undergoing elective spine and peripheral nerve surgical procedures, according to...

PrecisionOS Partners with CONMED International Following Major Breakthrough in Portable Arthroscopy Education Using Virtual Reality

By Admin | September 04, 2020

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, August 27, 2020 — PrecisionOS Technology, developers of the Surgical Mastery Platform™, announced today the details of a major breakthrough in basic and advanced fundamentals of arthroscopy training. The company has created the first-of-its-kind arthroscopy simulator available on...

UT Health says May cyberattack saw patient names, addresses and phone numbers stolen

By Admin | September 01, 2020

SAN ANTONIO - Officials at UT Health San Antonio have revealed the institution was invovled in a ransomware attack back in May. According to a letter sent to supporters, a third-party database provider Blackbaud Inc., discovered the...

11 spine surgeons on the evolution of telemedicine, patient evaluations during the pandemic

By Admin | August 28, 2020

Eleven spine surgeons and one physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist discuss how their patient evaluation considerations have changed during the pandemic and how their practice has evolved to...

Drilling Bone, docking retractors & more: 3 surgeons on the future of robotic spine surgery

By Admin | August 25, 2020

Hospitals and surgery centers across the U.S. have been implementing robots that are designed to improve surgical precision and provide more reproducible spine surgeries. Three spine surgeons discuss where we are with spinal robots today and what...

Dr. Zarina Ali creates program to reduce opioid use post-spine surgery

By Admin | August 20, 2020

Neurosurgeon Zarina Ali, MD, of Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine has developed a program that helps decrease opioid use and length of stay after elective spine and peripheral nerve surgery.

'The exact opposite of what needs to be done' — 6 surgeons on CMS' proposed 2021 fee schedule

By Admin | August 17, 2020

CMS' Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule for 2021, announced Aug. 3, laid out significant cuts for surgeons in several specialties.

Congress Must Act to Prevent Further Damage to the Health Care System

By Admin | August 14, 2020

The proposed 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on August 3, 2020 failed to address a significant shift in...

Anxiety, Depression Contribute to Higher LOS After Posterior Spinal Fusion in AIS Patients

By Admin | August 11, 2020

A multidisciplinary team from Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, and Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia have found that an increased length of stay...

Dr. Alejandro Badia: US healthcare is a 'bureaucratic nightmare'

By Admin | August 09, 2020

Orthopedic surgeon Alejandro Badia, MD, has called for a reform of the U.S. healthcare system, which he described as a "bureaucratic nightmare" in his book, 'Healthcare from the...

Neurosurgeons ask Congress to intervene in CMS' 'ill-informed and dangerous' Medicare payment cuts

By Admin | August 07, 2020

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons announced their opposition to CMS' Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule for 2021, which would reduce...

Wrap Your Brain Around This: Telehealth Is Transforming Neurosurgery

By Admin | August 04, 2020

With a pandemic raging, doctors in the city were avoiding in-person meetings with patients whenever possible, to prevent the coronavirus spreading. Bederson and his surgical team used telehealth...

'I'm fighting a war against COVID-19 and a war against stupidity,' says CMO of Houston hospital

By Admin | August 01, 2020

After two hours of sleep a night for four months and seeing a member of his team contract the virus, Joseph Varon, MD, is growing exasperated. "I'm pretty much fighting two wars: A war against COVID and a war against stupidity," Dr. Varon, MD, CMO and chief of critical care at United Memorial Medical Center in Houston, told NBC News. "And the problem is...

NuVasive Becomes First Industry Sponsor of the American Spine Registry to Improve Future of Spine Surgery Through Data-Driven Outcomes

By Admin | July 28, 2020

NuVasive, the leader in spine technology innovation, focused on transforming spine surgery with minimally disruptive, procedurally integrated solutions, and the...

Most orthopedic surgeons expect 2nd COVID-19 wave to knock volumes + 8 more insights

By Admin | July 25, 2020

Canaccord Genuity's latest survey results indicated that the "sharp bounce-back" in orthopedic surgery volumes to end the second quarter may be...

Setting spine practices up for success post-pandemic: 5 industry insights

By Admin | July 18, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced many new challenges for spine practices, but industry leaders believe those that aim to thrive post-pandemic must prepare for the future now.

Consolidation boom expected in spine post-pandemic: 5 surgeons share insights

By Admin | July 16, 2020

Five spine surgeons discuss the impact of COVID-19 on consolidation in the spine field.

Texas Back Institute monitoring COVID-19 surge as hospital chains restrict elective cases

By Admin | July 14, 2020

Texas Back Institute in Plano is keeping a close eye on the rising COVID-19 cases in the state as major hospital chains again begin to restrict elective...

Feds, surgical groups reach $77.2M settlement over allegedly illegal referral arrangement

By Admin | July 12, 2020

Oklahoma City-based Oklahoma Center for Orthopaedic and Multi-Specialty Surgery agreed to resolve allegations that it made improper payments in exchange for...

Reducing pain at discharge may reduce opioid consumption in orthopaedic patients

By Admin | July 10, 2020

A study published in the July issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS) has found a correlation between patient-reported pain at discharge from inpatient surgery and the number of opioids prescribed during the 90-day postoperative period. These results suggest...

Study Finds Patients Who Undergo Spine Surgery Prescribed Most Narcotics Three Months Following Surgery

By Admin | July 08, 2020

ROSEMONT, Ill., July 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As Americans have the highest opioid use rates, leading to abuse,i the orthopaedic community has committed itself to studying prescription methods and patient populations to help mitigate potential...

NASS cancels 2020 meeting and moves to digital platform

By Admin | July 02, 2020

The North American Spine Society (NASS) has cancelled its 35th Annual Meeting, which had been due to take place in San Diego, USA, between 7–10 October due to...

2 surgeons at Littleton hospital take pay cut to help keep other health care workers employed

By Admin | June 29, 2020

Coronavirus momentarily shut down elective surgeries, making some health care workers worry about losing their jobs. One team of doctors at Littleton Adventist Hospital stepped up to ensure their team could stay together during the pandemic.

The most essential tech in spine and orthopedics post-pandemic: 4 surgeon predictions

By Admin | June 26, 2020

During the Becker's Spine, Orthopedic & Pain Management-Driven ASC virtual event, four orthopedic and spine surgeons outline answered the question: Q: What technology will be most essential for spine surgeons in the future?

Johns Hopkins surgeons perform spinal fusion using xvision augmented reality guidance

By Admin | June 24, 2020

Augmedics has announced that its xvision Spine System (XVS), augmented reality guidance system has been successfully used for the first time in a spinal fusion surgery in the USA.

Dr. Alexander Vaccaro: Why Rothman Orthopaedics is dropping out of bundles

By Admin | June 22, 2020

Dr. Vaccaro participated in a fireside chat during the Becker's Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + the Future of Spine Virtual Event on June 19, discussing his outlook for spine, technology and private practice in the future.

Telemedicine Proven Effective Means of Monitoring Patients in Large Pediatric Neurology Network

By Admin | June 15, 2020

Newswise — Philadelphia, June 9, 2020 – As the COVID-19 pandemic sent entire communities into lockdown, doctors quickly adopted telehealth strategies without knowing...

3 Spine, Neurosurgery Device Recalls in the Past Year

By Admin | June 08, 2020

Here are three spine and neurosurgery devices recalled by device companies in the past year:

Local surgeon first in USA to perform revolutionary new lumbar spine fusion

By Admin | June 03, 2020

Less invasive approach yields remarkable results and is now available to Texans in need WACO (May 26, 2020): Local neurosurgeon, Dr. Steven Zielinski, has become the first surgeon in the country to perform a revolutionary new...

Diploma Surgical Neurophysiology - Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring - Online Six-Month Program - Training Senior IONM Specialists for the Future

By Admin | June 02, 2020

Axis Neuromonitoring is offering this course to train the senior specialists/technologists in the field of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM). This course is the first-ever diploma offered for senior technologists. It is a complete online course utilizing advanced software for online lectures, webinars, peer-reviewed research papers, case reports, discussion forums, and quizzes. All candidates will complete 20 units in 24 weeks. Target Audience: The course mainly targets candidates who want to learn about IONM and technologists with a keen interest in developing their skills in IONM.

Postdoctoral Fellowship - Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring - Online Six-Month Program - Training IONM Supervisors for the Future

By Admin | June 01, 2020

Axis Neuromonitoring is offering this course to train the supervising neurophysiologists in the field of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM). This course is the first-ever fellowship offered for senior neurophysiologists.

Fellowship Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring - Online Six-Month Program - Training Supervising Physicians for the Future

By Admin | May 31, 2020

Axis Neuromonitoring is offering this course to train remote-monitoring/ supervising-physicians in the field of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM).

3 hospitals expanding spine, neurosurgery programs

By Admin | May 28, 2020

Here are three hospitals expanding spine and neurosurgery programs: Tampa (Fla.) General Hospital partnered with Louisville, Ky.-based Kindred Healthcare to develop a $35 million rehab facility for spinal cord injury.

Elective orthopedic surgery gradually resumes as some states reopen

By Admin | May 26, 2020

As some states begin to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations such as CMS, the American Hospital Association, the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons have released new guidance on when and how hospitals and surgical facilities should resume elective surgical cases.

Biggest safety challenges amid the return to elective surgeries — 5 spine, orthopedic surgeons discuss

By Admin | May 22, 2020

Five spine and orthopedic surgeons discuss where the biggest safety concerns lie for patients and staff during the return to elective surgeries.

The 'new normal' in spine: 11 surgeon predictions

By Admin | May 20, 2020

Eleven spine surgeons answer the question: What will the 'new normal' look like in spine post-pandemic.

Super Speciality Hospital performs rare procedure to treat brain aneurysm

By Admin | May 18, 2020

When everywhere the discussion is going on regarding coronavirus cases, one different case had come at Super Speciality Hospital.

During Lockdown, Go Online for Advice on Treating Bone, Joint Issues

By Admin | May 15, 2020

Need counseling about the care of bone or joint issues?

AAOS Guiding Principles for Resuming Surgeries

By Admin | May 13, 2020

As elective surgeries resume, orthopedic surgeons will have critical questions to ask and answer before going back into the operating room.

Managing Your Orthopaedic Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

By Admin | May 11, 2020

"To say that the COVID-19 pandemic has been an unparalleled challenge for all of us is an understatement," said orthopaedic surgeon and AAOS spokesperson Stuart Fischer, MD, FAAOS.

Neurosurgeon: COVID-19 can travel to the brain and cause inflammation

By Admin | May 07, 2020

Dr. Pascal Jabbour became alarmed when he and other doctors noticed a significant number of stroke patients had tested positive for COVID-19. “What is unusual is those patients were young — relatively young — with no risk factors for stroke. So patients in their 30s, 40s and 50s,” he said.

Deformity Correction: Laratta vs Buchholz: Anterior Versus Posterior

By Admin | May 06, 2020

This week’s Case Debate Series, hosted by NuVasive, Inc., features a spirited debate regarding the preferred thoracolumbar procedure approach: anterior or posterior?

CMS Ups Telephone Visit Pay About 140%, Covers Telehealth Physical Therapy: 5 Things to Know

By Admin | May 05, 2020

CMS is expanding its list of audio-only telephone services covered by Medicare as well as making several other updates to telehealth coverage. Five updates...

Supreme Court Rejects UPMC Appeal in Whistleblower Case Involving 13 Neurosurgeons

By Admin | May 04, 2020

The U.S. Supreme Court on May 1 refused to hear an appeal by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in a whistleblower lawsuit against the health system and 13 neurosurgeons, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Hospitals Stand to Lose Millions as Neurosurgery, Orthopedics Sidelined

By Admin | April 29, 2020

Hospitals across the U.S. cut elective, non-essential orthopedic, spine and neurosurgery procedures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some states are beginning to look ahead to re-opening some operating rooms for non-COVID-19 patient procedures, but in hard-hit areas, medical supplies are still needed on the front lines. While hospitals have canceled or postponed most orthopedic, spine and neurosurgery cases, they are losing significant revenue.

Minimally Invasive Artificial Disc Replacement Shows “Significantly Better Results” Compared to Traditional Procedures

By Admin | April 28, 2020

Spine surgery experts in Texas have found minimally invasive artificial disc replacement to show “significantly better results” compared to traditional cervical spine procedures. According to Dr. Scott Kutz, MD, head of Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas (MINT), minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is the better option when it comes to cervical spine surgery. This is in terms of complications and recovery period involved in the procedure. In an article published on the clinic’s blog, the neurosurgery expert emphasized how traditional spinal surgery is prone to plenty of risks.

Spine surgeon leader to know: Dr. Ayodele Buraimoh of The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

By Admin | April 25, 2020

Ayodele Buraimoh, MD, is a spine surgeon with Bethesda, Md.-based The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. Dr. Buraimoh specializes in the treatment of degenerative spinal conditions as well as spinal trauma, deformity and tumors. He has expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery and traditional open techniques. He graduated with a biology degree from Harvard University in Boston, earned his medical degree from Boston University and completed an orthopedic residency at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit.

Here's More Evidence That Exercise Is Good for Your Brain Health

By Admin | April 22, 2020

According to preliminary research, staying active as you age—even at a low intensity—can lead to better brain function and a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Older people who remain active had larger total brain volume compared to those who reported lower amounts of activity. Older people who stay active—even at a low intensity—may have bigger brains than those who are more sedentary. This preliminary research was scheduled to be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting on April 25, but the meeting was canceled due to the global coronavirus outbreak.

Plano Brain and Spine Center, MINSTX.com, Publishes Article on Breakthrough MIS Procedures

By Admin | April 17, 2020

A recent article released by Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas reveals the science behind some breakthrough minimally invasive surgical procedures that have improved chances of success and recovery rates for back surgery.

The impact of the coronavirus on the Microsurgery for Neurosurgical Instruments Projected to Gain Significant Value

By Admin | April 05, 2020

The global Microsurgery for Neurosurgical Instruments market study presents an all in all compilation of the historical, current and future outlook of the market as well as the factors responsible for such a growth. With SWOT analysis, the business study highlights the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of each Microsurgery for Neurosurgical Instruments market player in a comprehensive way.

Surgical approach linked to risk in hip replacement

By Admin | March 30, 2020

The researchers say that the anterior approach to hip arthroplasty is slightly more risky than the posterior or lateral approaches. "The small but statistically significant increase in the risk of major surgical complications associated with the anterior approach may help inform decisions for total hip arthroplasty," write Daniel Pincus, MD, PhD, of the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center in Toronto, Canada, and his colleagues.

Minimally Invasive Artificial Disc Replacement Shows “Significantly Better Results” Compared to Traditional Procedures (Source: Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas)

By Admin | March 27, 2020

Dr. Scott Kutz, an expert in the field of cervical spine surgery, has published a new article that discusses how minimally invasive spine surgery has shown “significantly better results” in terms of risks and recovery period than traditional open spine surgery.

NorthShore neurosurgeon first in Illinois to offer new targeted therapy for brain tumors

By Admin | March 23, 2020

NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) neurosurgeon, Julian Bailes, MD, is the first in Illinois to begin offering GammaTile® Therapy, a new approach to treating malignant brain tumors. The FDA-cleared, Surgically Targeted Radiation Therapy (STaRT) is designed to delay tumor regrowth for patients with high grade gliomas, meningiomas and brain metastases. The first patient in the state was treated by Dr. Bailes who is chairman of the department of neurosurgery and co-director of the NorthShore Neurological Institute. Neuro-oncologist Ryan Merrell, MD, will also be participating in this new surgical therapy at NorthShore.

Physicians may no longer need a new license to cross state lines

By Admin | March 20, 2020

Physicians and other medical professionals will no longer need a new license to care for patients across state lines, according to a statement made by Vice President Mike Pence during a White House press briefing on March 18. The briefing touched on the Trump administration's response to the coronavirus outbreak. The administration has taken several steps in recent days to relax regulations in an effort to streamline access to care as the outbreak spreads across the country. For example, the government will no longer enforce penalties for violating certain aspects of HIPAA and HHS has expanded access to telehealth for Medicare beneficiaries.

Insightec raises another $150m for incisionless neurosurgery platform

By Admin | March 18, 2020

Insightec announced that it signed definitive agreements for a $150 million Series F financing round with a post-money valuation of $1.3 billion. The Haifa, Israel–based company is the developer of the Exablate Neuro incisionless neurosurgery platform. Insightec touts the Exablate Neuro as the first MR-guided focused ultrasound device to win FDA approval for treating certain movement disorders in people suffering from essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease who have not responded to medication.

3 Extremely Important Neurosurgery Procedures 2020

By Admin | March 16, 2020

The main objective in the treatment of patients with epilepsy is to achieve adequate control of their seizures. These attacks sometimes affect patients more than expected. Of course, this process enables improving their quality of life and avoiding deterioration and exclusion associated with the presence of frequent and sustained epileptic seizures over years. According to brain-surgery.com, there are many people suffering from this kind of issue, it’s not difficult to conclude that this kind of brain surgery might save thousands of lives.

Medical experts decline to endorse cognitive screening for older adults

By Admin | March 13, 2020

A leading group of medical experts on Tuesday declined to endorse cognitive screening for older adults, fueling a debate that has simmered for years. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said it could neither recommend nor oppose cognitive screening, citing insufficient scientific evidence of the practice’s benefits and harms and calling for further studies.

ACDF VS TOTAL DISC REPLACEMENT AT TEXAS BACK

By Admin | March 11, 2020

In a square-off between total disc replacement (TDR) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), which procedure is more popular—at ground zero for total disc replacement, The Texas Back Institute? Researchers from the Texas Back Institute set out to determine that and more in their work, “In which cases do surgeons specializing in total disc replacement perform fusion in patients with cervical spine symptoms?” The study appears in the January 2, 2020 edition of The European Spine Journal.

US Department of Defense researchers to study spinal cord regeneration

By Admin | March 09, 2020

Biopharmaceutical company MicroCures partnered Feb. 19 with the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine to study spinal cord regeneration after trauma. Researchers from the U.S. Department of Defense will evaluate MicroCures' lead product, siFi2, in animal models with spinal cord injuries.

Patient plays violin during brain surgery

By Admin | March 08, 2020

Dagmar Turner was worried about losing her ability to play the violin during brain surgery, so she played the instrument during the operation.

NASS ISSUES MASSIVE BACK PAIN TREATMENT REVIEW

By Admin | March 01, 2020

Based on 45,000 clinical studies, 82 clinical questions and 100 recommendation statements, this is the most comprehensive review of the diagnosis and treatment for low back pain ever assembled. The remarkable effort and indispensable reference for spine and neurosurgeons was the collective effort of 11 physician societies dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain. According to North American Spine Society (NASS), “Compared to a typical NASS guideline with 400-600 literature search results and approximately 30 clinical questions, the Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain guideline resulted in over 45,000 literature search results and contains 82 clinical questions with over 100 recommendation statements.”

How artificial intelligence will affect brain surgery

By Admin | February 25, 2020

Brain surgery is getting smarter. The journal Nature Medicine recently published a study that found a new imaging technique that allows pathologists to diagnose brain tumors faster and more accurately than ever before. The study focused on Invenio Imaging technology’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) in making accurate diagnoses. So, will computers replace doctors? That’s unlikely. Treating the human brain requires a human approach. But AI is poised to become an invaluable tool in improving a physician’s ability to make an accurate diagnosis, predict future issues, and come up with minimally invasive surgical plans.

1 in 5 Insured Hit With Surprise Bills for Surgery

By Admin | February 21, 2020

TUESDAY, Feb. 11, 2020 (HealthDay News) -- You scheduled your surgery and made sure both your doctor and hospital are in your insurer's approved network of providers. Everything went without a hitch -- until a whopper of a bill showed up in the mail for "out-of-network" care during your operation. The average out-of-network surprise bill tops $2,000, a new study finds. And about 20% of patients who had surgery using a doctor and hospital considered in-network for their insurance got a surprise bill.

Dr. Paul Matz breaks down NASS' clinical guidelines for treatment of low back pain

By Admin | February 13, 2020

The North American Spine Society published guidelines Jan. 29 for the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain in adult patients. The publication, "Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines for Multidisciplinary Spine Care: Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain," focuses on 82 clinical questions and is the largest clinical guidelines that NASS has produced. Paul Matz, MD, a neurosurgeon with Casper-based Wyoming Neurosurgery and Spine and the evidence-based guideline development committee co-chair, spoke to Becker's Spine Review about the motivation behind the guidelines and what he hopes it will achieve.

Tumour removed from brain of six-day-old child

By Admin | February 11, 2020

Surgeons at Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital here have removed a tumour from the thalamus part of the brain of a six-day-old baby girl. The doctors said the baby was born to a couple in early January at a Government Hospital in Erode. At birth, the child did not cry and doctors at the Erode GH referred her to the Salem hospital where the tumour was detected.

The question Paul Black and Michael Dowling won't stop asking: Why can't it be improved?

By Admin | February 07, 2020

In fall 2019, Northwell Health and Allscripts combined forces to create the next-generation EHR. The cloud-based, voice-enabled and AI-powered EHR will be designed based on input from Northwell clinicians, IT experts and administrators alongside Allscripts' development and systems integration expertise. It's not every day a 23-hospital, 14,000 physician system partners with an IT solutions company to reengineer a piece of technology as ubiquitous as the EHR. Worth noting, too, is how the organizations aren't setting out on this effort quietly. The announcement of their partnership last fall made clear their accountability for results, not only at Northwell but the industry at large, by showing what's possible when EHR users and developers innovate together.

NASS releases guidelines for diagnosis, treatment of low back pain

By Admin | February 06, 2020

The North American Spine Society announced the release of evidence-based clinical guidelines for multidisciplinary spine care for the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain. The guidelines can help practitioners treat adult patients with non-specific low back pain above the knee, according to a press release issued by the North American Spine Society.

Delhi doctors successfully treat infant’s rare spinal deformity

By Admin | February 05, 2020

NEW DELHI: A one-and-half-year old child, suffering from spinal deformity due to tuberculosis in his spine, was successfully treated at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre. This is the first known surgery in India wherein such a complex procedure was carried out on an infant and screws were used to fix the deformity, and reduced the deformity from 110 degrees to 40 degrees.

NASS publishes guidelines for diagnosis, treatment of lumbar pain

By  | February 04, 2020

The North American Spine Society on Jan. 29 released guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain in adult patients. The publication is titled "Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines for Multidisciplinary Spine Care: Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain." It contains 82 clinical questions surrounding diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.

Health Watch: Unique procedure helps athletes with spinal fractures

By Admin | February 03, 2020

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Nick Mucerino's passion has always been hockey. But after a big hit on the ice, the 16-year-old started feeling severe pain in his lower back. "The way I can describe it is somebody taking an ice pick down your spine," Mucerino said. It turns out that he suffered a pars fracture.

Revolutionary Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in Texas Offered by Renowned Neurosurgeon

By Admin | January 30, 2020

Plano, United States - January 23, 2020 /MarketersMedia/ — Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery of Texas, one of the leading providers of minimally invasive surgery in Texas, recently published an article that is designed to help inform back surgery patients about the benefits of MIS procedures.

WISE Completes WISE Completes Enrolment in Pivotal Clinical Study of Novel Neuro-Electrodes for Brain Monitoring in Pivotal Clinical Study of Novel Neuro-Electrodes for Brain Monitoring

By Admin | January 28, 2020

Highly ergonomic and minimally invasive cortical strip electrodes on track for commercialization in 2020 MILAN, Italy, January 23, 2020 / B3C newswire / -- WISE Srl, a medical device company developing next-generation implantable leads for neuromonitoring, neuromodulation and brain-machine interfacing, has completed enrolment in the pivotal clinical study of its first product, the WISE Cortical Strip. The WISE Cortical Strip (WCS) is a single use medical device for IntraOperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during brain tumor and epilepsy surgeries. It is used for continuous recording of the brain’s electrical activity and for brain stimulation. The WIN Study is a prospective, interventional, multi-center, open-label premarket study performed in expert centers in Germany, Switzerland and Italy. The study is designed to confirm the safety, performance and intended use of WCS for CE and 510K certification purposes.

OpEd: Hospital monopolies are making us poorer and sicker

By Admin | January 22, 2020

Sometimes, what looks like bad news comes along with a silver lining. This is not one of those times. For years, we’ve seen the evidence that hospital mergers generally contribute to rising health care costs in America. That’s despite hospitals arguing otherwise. But now, a new study in the New England Journal of Medicine rubs salt in the wound by showing how hospital mergers aren’t improving health care quality and often make it worse.

Health in Focus: Vertebral Compression Fractures

By Admin | January 20, 2020

Vertebral compression fractures are caused by the loss of bone mass from aging, osteoporosis, or cancer. They are painful and affect more than just your spine. We spoke with Dr. Jay Jagannathan of Jagannathan Neurosurgery to talk about the symptoms and treatments as well as talk to one of his patients about her experience.

Cutting edge Spine Surgery

By Admin | January 17, 2020

When a patient is told they may need spine surgery, the first question they often have is about the risk. Doctors at the Spine Clinic of Oklahoma City are making strides in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) ensuring reduced risk for their patients when compared with traditional approaches.

Brain engineering with deep brain stimulation

By Admin | January 16, 2020

awesome power. Some have turned to brain engineering in an attempt to transcend humanity and become cyborgs, merging directly with computer to augment their intelligence. In the medical field, researchers are using brain engineering to try to cure diseases that have long plagued humanity. These can be diseases affecting motor function or mental health, and the results of this research will have far-reaching implications for the future of humanity.

Pedicle screw placement in spinal neurosurgery using a 3D-printed drill guide template: a systematic review and meta-analysis

By Admin | January 15, 2020

Many surgeons believe that the use of a 3D-printed drill guide template shortens operative time and reduces intraoperative blood loss compared with those of the free-hand technique. In this study, we investigated the effects of a drill guide template on the accuracy of pedicle screw placement (the screw placed completely in the pedicle), operative time, and intraoperative blood loss.

The relevance of intraoperative neuromonitoring for spine surgery

By Admin | January 14, 2020

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) was introduced several decades ago and is an increasingly favourable option for delicate surgeries. A recent study1 indicates that IONM procedures have risen 296% from 2008–2014. So, what is it and how does it benefit spine surgery? Jay Jagannathan discusses IONM’s relevance to complex spinal surgeries.

Health Tip: Signs of a Herniated Disc

By Admin | January 13, 2020

(HEALTHDAY NEWS) -- THE bones that form your spine are cushioned by round discs. A herniated disc is a disc that has been pushed out of place, says the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

Medicare reimbursement down a third for hip, knee joint procedures, study of CPT codes finds

By Admin | January 10, 2020

Average physician reimbursement for all hip and knee joint procedures fell more than 30 percent in the past 20 years, according to a study published in The Journal of Arthroplasty. For the study, researchers evaluated trends in Medicare reimbursement rates from 2000-19 for hip and knee arthroplasty procedures. The authors queried the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons coding reference to uncover which CPT codes were most frequently used to document adult hip and knee reconstruction. They paired the codes with physician payment data from CMS.

Meet the brains behind the push to get more women in neurosurgery

By Admin | January 09, 2020

As the medical director of Toronto's Krembil Brain Institute, Dr. Gelareh Zadeh is at the top of the neurology — more specifically, neurosurgery — industry. But throughout most of her journey to get there, she says she's been the only woman in the room.

Spine surgery is safe in patients of advanced age

By Admin | January 08, 2020

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (DECEMBER 17, 2019). Spine surgeons from seven institutions in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, conducted a multicenter, prospective study of spine surgeries performed in patients 80 years of age and older. Although the overall perioperative complication rate was high--20%, there were no major systemic complications and no deaths in the patients. The surgeons conclude that spine surgery is safe in this age group.

AAN Makes a Call on Telemedicine Across Neurology

By Admin | January 07, 2020

Telemedicine can be appropriate for evaluating patients who experience a concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or headache, as well as for assessing many patients who live with epilepsy, dementia or movement disorders, a new study from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) suggests.

Medicare reimbursement for hip and knee arthroplasty from 2000-2019: An unsustainable trend

By Admin | January 06, 2020

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons coding reference was queried to estimate the CPT codes most often used in hip and knee adult reconstruction in order to evaluate monetary trends in Medicare reimbursement rates from 2000 to 2019 for the most prevalent hip and knee arthroplasty procedures.

2020 Axisneuro IONM Workshop & Seminar Registration

By Admin | January 06, 2020

2020 Axisneuro IONM Workshop & Seminar Registration

Former Texas hospital CEO pleads guilty to defrauding 3 major insurers

By Admin | January 02, 2020

The former CEO of Palo Pinto General Hospital in Mineral Wells, Texas, has pleaded guilty to defrauding BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, Cigna Texas and UnitedHealthcare out of millions of dollars, according to the Department of Justice.

Augmented reality, endoscopic surgery & robotics — what 7 spine surgeons are adapting in 2020

By Admin | January 02, 2020

Seven spine and neurosurgeons discuss what strategies they will introduce in their practices next year. Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses.

Texas Set To Implement Tough Surprise Billing Law After Loophole Gets Shot Down

By Admin | December 30, 2019

It appears Texas will get one of the strongest laws in the nation against surprise medical bills after all. Earlier this year, lawmakers passed legislation to protect people in state-regulated health plans from getting outrageous bills for out-of-network care. The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, wavered last month when the Texas Medical Board drafted the rules for its implementation. The board, made up of health care providers, tried to get a blanket exception to the law for virtually all nonemergency cases.

Defective EHRs suffer little in fraud probes: 'They're almost too big to fail'

By Admin | December 27, 2019

EHR software vendors and healthcare providers have consistently overstated the abilities of their medical records software in order to receive undeserved millions in government subsidies, according to an investigation by Fortune and Kaiser Health News.

Dr. Jeffrey Wang hopes bundled payments will bypass 'initial pushback' to improve spine care

By Admin | December 26, 2019

Jeffrey Wang, MD, is co-director of the USC Spine Center at Keck Medicine of USC in Los Angeles who completed his term as president of the North American Spine Society in September. Dr. Wang spoke to Becker's Spine Review about the future of value-based care in spine and goals for his practice in 2020.

Cheerleader Able to Walk Less Than 3 Months After Devastating Injury

By Admin | December 24, 2019

A local cheerleader is defying the odds and walking again nearly three months after fracturing her spine during a devastating accident. NBC10’s Tim Furlong spoke to Lauren Garrett about her amazing recovery.

Smaller, Independent Physician Practices Urge Congress to Solve Surprise Billing the Right Way

By Admin | December 23, 2019

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Out of the Middle applauds a letter sent to Congress yesterday on behalf of nearly 900 smaller and independent physician practices across medical specialties that outlines the potentially devastating unintended consequences that certain legislative proposals to solve surprise bills could have on physicians' ability to care for patients in our communities.

Cutting edge neurosurgery clinic

By Admin | December 20, 2019

  For more information please read, Cutting edge neurosurgery clinic, by SW Times. 

Homefront: 3D printing could change neurosurgery all over the world

By Admin | December 19, 2019

Abdul was 5 years old when an abandoned Soviet landmine exploded in his hand. The skull implant that saved his life that day was causing serious problems by the time he turned 10 — and an American doctor knew he had to help.

Doctor Visits via Telemedicine Show Patient and Caregiver Satisfaction, Neurology Review Says

By Admin | December 17, 2019

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their caregivers appear to be just as satisfied with a video evaluation given by a neurologist using telemedicine as they have been with those done through an in-person visit, a review from the American Academy of Neurology reports. The review, “Teleneurology is neurology,” which also looked into its use with people with neurological disorders like epilepsy and dementia, was published in the journal Neurology.

For Concussion, MS, Other Neurologic Disorders, Telemedicine May Be as Effective as Office Visit

By Admin | December 16, 2019

MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 4, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- For people with many neurologic disorders, seeing the neurologist by video may be as effective as an in-person visit, according to a review of the evidence conducted by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN). The evidence review examined all available studies on use of telemedicine for several neurologic conditions – stroke being one of the conditions that is well-validated and highly utilizes telemedicine – and is published in the December 4, 2019, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the AAN. The results indicate that a diagnosis from a neurologist by video for certain neurologic conditions is likely to be as accurate as an in-person visit.

Texas’ Balance Billing Legislation May Be Threatened by Loophole

By Admin | December 13, 2019

Consumer advocates are worried that a proposed rule could undo the protections in Texas’ balance billing legislation. After a law was passed this summer to keep Texas patients out of arbitration between providers and insurers when there are surprise medical bills, some worry that a loophole in the legislation will be used to confuse patients and increase balance billing.

Texas Medical Board Withdraws Surprise Billing Rules

By Admin | December 12, 2019

The Texas Medical Board is changing its tune about how to interpret Texas’ latest surprise billing legislation. Last week, controversy arose about rules written by the Texas Medical Board in the interpretation of Senate Bill 1264, which was meant to prevent patients from being involved in the balance billing process, were criticized for creating a large loophole for physicians to exploit.

Why a dollar not spent isn't always saving in spine

By Admin | December 11, 2019

Richard Wohns, MD, JD, founder of NeoSpine in Puyallup, Wash., discusses the biggest threat he sees to spine care, insurance company denials, and how spending a little upfront could provide better outcomes and significant savings in the future.

Neurosurgery symposium discusses skullbase surgery

By Admin | December 09, 2019

With the drop of traumatic injuries and the development of testing, cerebral vascular disease is becoming a leading ailment in neurosurgery department, medical experts said on an international skullbase surgery symposium in the city over the weekend.

How to get ready for that all-important visit to a neurologist

By Admin | December 06, 2019

I know this seems silly now, in the world of instant, on-demand everything, but when I was a kid, they would show “The Wizard of Oz” on TV once a year. For us kids, that was a huge deal. We looked forward to it for weeks. And if you missed it, Oh man, you had to wait a whole year for it to come back on TV again. So really, all I’m saying here is that year is a long time to wait for anything, whether it’s Dorothy and the witch, or whether it’s something really significant, like say, your next appointment with your neurologist.

New Jersey hospital performs kidney transplant on wrong patient

By Admin | December 05, 2019

Camden, N.J.-based Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital performed a kidney transplant on the wrong patient Nov. 18, hospital officials confirmed to CBS 3 Philly. The mix-up involved two patients who have the same name and are close in age. The 51-year-old patient who received the kidney was also on the transplant list, although ranked lower in priority.

In Silicon Valley, startup cofounder battles VC over the future of health insurance

By Admin | December 04, 2019

Bind Benefits' Shawn Wagoner and OMERS Ventures' Michael Yang tussle over dueling visions of the future of health insurance, specifically whether consumers have the wherewithal to make prudent buying decisions, at a recent Bay Area event.

Texas health system closes hospital, lays off 972

By Admin | December 03, 2019

Nix Medical Center, a 208-bed hospital in San Antonio has closed, and its medical equipment will be sold at auction.

Senator Urges HHS to Add API Privacy Standards to Data Sharing Rules

By Admin | December 02, 2019

November 20, 2019 - The Department of Health and Human Services is once again being asked to add data standards to its proposed data sharing rules to ensure the protection of patient privacy as interoperability increases throughout the healthcare sector. Sen. Mark Warner sent a letter to HHS stressing the need for changes to its upcoming rules on information blocking and interoperability. CHIME has made similar recommendations to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee.

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery

By  | November 29, 2019

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery provides a single source for the reader to keep abreast of developments in the most rapidly advancing subspecialty within neurosurgery. Technological advances in computerassisted surgery, robotics, imaging and neurophysiology are being applied to clinical problems with everincreasing rapidity in stereotaxis more than any other field, providing opportunities for new approaches to surgical and radiotherapeutic management of diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and spine. Issues feature advances in the use of deep-brain stimulation, imaging-guided techniques in stereotactic biopsy and craniotomy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and stereotactically implanted and stereotactically guided radiotherapeutics and biologicals in the treatment of functional and movement disorders, brain tumors, and other diseases of the brain. Background information from basic science laboratories related to such clinical advances provides the reader with an overall perspective of this field. Proceedings and abstracts from many of the key international meetings furnish an overview of this specialty available nowhere else. Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery meets the information needs of both investigators and clinicians in this rapidly advancing field.

HOW TO MAKE NEUROSURGERY POSSIBLE IN THE BRAZILIAN AMAZON

By Admin | November 27, 2019

A new study offers a model for creating a sustainable neurosurgery programs in poor, remote locations.

Last-Minute loophole could undermine Texas law against surprise medical bills

By Admin | November 26, 2019

A proposed rule takes a narrow exemption to the law ? intended to be used only when patients want a particular out-of-network doctor and agree to financial ramifications ? and instead would require all out-of-network providers in nonemergency situations to give patients that waiver, thereby creating confusion.

Benefit of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in a Pediatric Patient with Spinal Dysmorphism, Split Cord Malformation, and Scoliosis

By Admin | November 22, 2019

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) consists of a group of neurodiagnostic techniques that assess the nervous system’s functional integrity during surgical operations. A retrospective analysis of a pediatric female patient was conducted who underwent 12 operations for the correction of scoliosis, tethered cord, and split spinal cord wherein IONM played an important role. From age 3 to 6, she underwent six procedures including a release of the tethered cord, resection of the filum terminale, removal of a T11–T12 bony spur, release of L3 adhesions, repair of subcutaneous meningocele, and correction of scoliosis with a vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rod (VEPTR) technique without the use of IONM. However, a multimodality IONM protocol with somatosensory evoked potentials, transcranial electrical motor evoked potentials (TCeMEP), and an electromyogram was utilized during the later procedures. At age 6 (the seventh procedure), a VEPTR expansion was performed, with loss and recovery of the lower extremity motor evoked potentials. The postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a partial split cord malformation with retethering of the spinal cord. We repaired her split cord malformation and tethered cord while employing IONM. Using IONM for her operation was crucial because a sudden significant loss of TCeMEP resulted in a cancellation of the procedure; the MRI showed a thick remnant attached to the spinal cord. If the procedure was performed without IONM, we could have missed the underlying pathology, an error that may have resulted in paraplegia. We strongly recommend using IONM during high-risk surgical procedures to help significantly reduce the risk of permanent postoperative complications.

Medicare-for-All: The DFW Hospital Perspective

By Admin | November 21, 2019

What to do about the United States’ ever-expanding medical costs has been a key issue during the presidential primary season. Medicare-for-All, Medicare-for-more, Medicare-if-you-want-it, and a bevy of other healthcare policies have been key talking points for every serious Democratic presidential candidate. Steve Love is the CEO of the DFW Hospital Council, a 90 member hospital organization that helps hospitals collaborate and advocate for initiatives they value, and he says that while the hospitals want to be politically neutral and are for increased coverage, Medicare for all is not the answer. He calls it a “cry for help.” There is a legitimate issue in lack of coverage, but a single payer system is not the answer. “A ‘ Medicare-for-All’ product would upend 180 million Americans who currently receive health insurance through their employer. The funding could become political and not in the best interest of the patient,” he says.

Cleveland Clinic Performs Its First In Utero Fetal Surgery

By Admin | November 20, 2019

Cleveland Clinic has successfully performed its first in utero fetal surgery to repair a spina bifida birth defect in a nearly 23-week-old fetus. A multispecialty team of clinicians performed the surgery in February, and the baby, a girl, was later delivered by caesarean section near full term June 3, making it northern Ohio’s first surgery of its kind. Mother and daughter are doing well.

Health in Focus: Pituitary Tumors

By Admin | November 19, 2019

Pituitary tumors are a problem that can go undiagnosed for your entire life. In most cases they are benign, but in some rare cases, they can be malignant. Michelle met with Dr. Jay Jagannathan from Jagannathan Neurosurgery to talk about how exactly these can affect people and what to know about diagnosis. Pituitary tumors are growths of abnormal cells within the pituitary gland, which is the gland that controls hormone function.

TO YOUR HEALTH: Insurance companies need limits, say doctors

By Admin | November 18, 2019

House solution to surprise medical bills reaches 100 co-sponsors. - The Protecting People From Surprise Medical Bills Act (H.R. 3502), by Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA) and Rep. Phil Roe (R-TN), now has more support than any other pending surprise bill legislation in Congress. - And groups representing hundreds of thousands of physicians, including the American College of Emergency Physicians, urged House and Senate leadership to avoid handing more power to insurance companies. Instead, consider a more balanced approach that includes independent dispute resolution. Read the letter.

Dr. Martin Quirno: How the US healthcare system compares to Brazil and Argentina

By Admin | November 15, 2019

Martin Quirno, MD, is a fellowship-trained spine surgeon and clinical assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases in New York City. A Brazilian citizen, Dr. Quirno moved to Argentina as a teenager and graduated from CEMIC Medical School in Bueno Aires before moving to the U.S to further his career.

Revive open skull surgery

By Admin | November 14, 2019

Conventional surgery by opening the skull to treat brain aneurysm — a localised swelling of the wall of an artery — is less costly than minimally invasive surgery, doctors said on Tuesday.

Doctors Just Livestreamed a Brain Surgery on Facebook, And The Patient Was Awake

By Admin | November 13, 2019

On Tuesday, doctors performed surgery on a woman's brain - while thousands of people watched on Facebook Live. Jenna Schardt was the person under the knife - and in the spotlight - during the livestreamed brain surgery at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. She needed a mass of seizure-causing blood vessels removed from her brain, and when the hospital approached her about streaming the procedure via Facebook Live, she was more than willing.

Anterior approach, additional drains preoperatively may mitigate cerebrospinal fluid leaks

By Admin | November 12, 2019

CHICAGO — Spine surgeons may be able to mitigate some dural tears and subsequent cerebrospinal fluid leaks by taking steps preoperatively and intraoperatively to prevent and manage these complications, a presenter at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting said. According to Daniel K. Resnick, MD, MS, anticipating a dural tear and being aware of options to treat it, as well as a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, are critical to avoiding and managing these spine surgery complications.

Electrical stimulation aids in spinal fusion

By Admin | November 11, 2019

Spine surgeons in the U.S. perform more than 400,000 spinal fusions each year as a way to ease back pain and prevent vertebrae in the spine from wiggling around and doing more damage. However, reports estimate that on average some 30% of these surgeries fail to weld these vertebrae into a single bone, causing continued back pain.

Some Kaiser employees would lose jobs under Warren's 'Medicare for All' plan, CEO Bernard Tyson says

By Admin | November 08, 2019

Presidential hopeful Sen. Elizabeth Warren's "Medicare for All" proposal would cost some Kaiser Permanente employees their jobs, Chairman and CEO Bernard Tyson said Nov. 4 on CNBC's "Closing Bell" from the @ Work: People + Machines Summit in San Francisco.

99K viewers watch live stream of awake neurosurgical procedure at Texas hospital

By Admin | November 07, 2019

More than 99,000 people watched neurosurgeons Randall Graham, MD, and Bartley Mitchell, MD, remove a tumor from a patient's brain in an awake neurosurgical procedure on Oct. 29, reports The Dallas Morning News.

Serious deficiencies uncovered at MD Anderson Cancer Center, CMS report reveals

By Admin | November 06, 2019

Serious patient care deficiencies, including three that constituted "immediate jeopardy," were discovered at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, according to a Houston Chronicle report. CMS conducted an inspection at MD Anderson at the end of August after a previously investigated patient death. It detailed its findings in a report that was made public last week.

'Great patient care is great business': Dr. Matthew Goodwin on patient, price transparency in spine

By Admin | November 05, 2019

Matthew Goodwin, MD, PhD, is an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery and neurological surgery at Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Goodwin completed surgical training in both neurosurgery and orthopedics and specializes in the treatment of complex spinal conditions. His practice focuses on spinal tumors including metastatic and primary cancers of the spine, benign-aggressive lesions of the spine and other noncancerous lesions requiring surgical treatment. In August, SpineLine, the primary publication for North American Spine Society members, recognized Dr. Goodwin in its '20 Under 40' list of top spine surgeons for 2019. Here, Dr. Goodwin discusses the importance of patient and price transparency and the evolution of robotics in spine.

Xenon Light Technology Enhances Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery

By Admin | November 04, 2019

An automated, intraoperative tissue-harvesting tool combines xenon illumination with advanced resection for post-procedural analysis in the molecular era.

Pune: Girl suffering from scoliosis undergoes back-correcting surgery

By Admin | November 01, 2019

Pune: A cosmetic back deformity surgery was successfully conducted on a 14-year-old girl from Satara at a city-based government hospital. The child and her parents had been looking for a treatment for scoliosis in many hospitals over the past few years.

Nico unveils device to improve visualization in neurosurgery — 3 things to know

By Admin | October 31, 2019

Nico launched its latest FDA-cleared device, the Nico Myriad Novus, to enhance visualization in minimally invasive neurosurgery procedures.

Innovation in Neurosurgery: Mizuho America Announces New Dissection Set Designed by A Renowned Neurosurgeon, Dr. Youssef

By Admin | October 30, 2019

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- When a 48 year old active young lady realized her hearing and balance were slowly deteriorating in performing her day to day activities, she consulted with her doctor and was referred to a neuro-otologist. After several tests and imaging procedures she was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma.

Court denies motion for new trial after finding neurosurgeon did not have to disclose financial ties to spine device company

By Admin | October 25, 2019

A jury found that neurosurgeon Robert Replogle, MD, did not have to disclose his connection with spinal device company Spineology before receiving a patient's consent to a spinal fusion using one of the company's implants. What you need to know: 1. In late 2010, Dr. Replogle performed a minimally invasive fusion of the L5-S1 vertebrae on a patient with two prior procedures that did not relieve her pain – first a spinal decompression and then a multilevel fusion. He used a unilateral pedicle screws and an OptiMesh graft, developed by Spineology. At the time, he had a consulting agreement with the company and $110,000 worth of its stock, which he failed to disclose to the patient.

Bipartisan Solution to Surprise Medical Bills Reaches 100 Co-Sponsors

By Admin | October 24, 2019

Newswise — WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, hundreds of thousands of physicians unified under the Out of the Middle Coalition applaud Representatives Raul Ruiz, MD, (D-Calif.) and Phil Roe, MD, (R-Tenn.), for reaching 100 cosponsors on their bipartisan solution to address surprise medical bills. This legislation now has more support than any other pending surprise medical billing legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

3 reasons you should consider ultrasonic spine surgery

By Admin | October 23, 2019

Back pain is one of the most common pain complaints for adults in the United States, according to research reported by the National Institutes of Health. While many sources of back pain clear up in a few days or weeks, chronic back pain is any pain that persists for more than 12 weeks, often even after an initial injury or underlying cause has been treated.

The Joint Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Section

By Admin | October 22, 2019

The Joint Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Section is dedicated to the treatment of functional disorders of the nervous system through the use of stereotaxy and other forms of surgical technology.

14 health systems expanding spine, neurosurgery services in 2019

By Admin | October 21, 2019

Here are 14 health systems expanding spine and neurosurgery services in 2019. 1. Atlanta-based Emory Healthcare broke ground on the Emory Musculoskeletal Institute in Brookhaven, Ga., Oct. 4. The 180,000-square-foot facility will include spine, orthopedics, physical therapy and imaging in one location.

The effectiveness of electrical stimulation in producing spinal fusion

By Admin | October 18, 2019

Researchers performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data on the effect of electrical stimulation therapies on spinal fusion. They found significant improvement overall in the rates of bone fusion following a course of electrical stimulation in both preclinical (animal) and clinical (human) studies.

Prioritisation of realignment associated with superior clinical outcomes for surgical cervical deformity patients

By Admin | October 17, 2019

According to new research, certain ratios of correction of cervical parameters contribute to improving neck disability. The study, authored by Katherine E Pierce (NYU Langone Medical Centre, New York, USA) and colleagues, was recently nominated for Best Paper at the 34th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS 2019; 25–28 September, Chicago, USA), where Pierce presented the group’s findings. The authors—Pierce and colleagues, including senior author Peter G Passias—note that certain cut-offs of radiographic differences from baseline to one year were found prioritising C2–T3 angle, followed by cervical lordosis, C2 slope, C2–C7 plumb line, and McGregor’s slope, all strongly associated with meeting the minimal clinically important difference for the neck disability index score. They conclude: “Prioritising these radiographic alignment parameters will optimise patient-reported outcomes for patients undergoing cervical deformity surgery.

Decompression without fusion inappropriate for most degenerative scoliosis scenarios

By Admin | October 16, 2019

CHICAGO — An appropriate use criteria study presented at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting showed decompression without fusion was inappropriate for most cases of degenerative scoliosis and stenosis. Using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, Michael D. Daubs, MD, and colleagues developed 260 scenarios based on seven different clinical characteristics of patients with degenerative scoliosis and stenosis. A panel of neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, physiatrists, a researcher/physical therapist and a geriatrician discussed the risks and benefits and rated the appropriateness of the following five treatments for each scenario: decompression alone; fusion alone; decompression and fusion; fusion and deformity correction; and decompression, fusion and deformity correction, according to Daubs.

United Healthcare terminates contract with Houston Methodist; 100,000 plan members affected

By Admin | October 15, 2019

As many as 100,000 UnitedHealthcare plan members could lose in-network access to all eight Houston Methodist hospitals and dozens of its out-patient facilities on Dec. 31 after the insurer announced it was dropping the major hospital system from its network. The move would affect anyone with a UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored plan as well as those covered under the insurer’s Medicare Advantage program for seniors, both the hospital and the insurance company confirmed on Thursday. Medicare Advantage enrollment for 2020 begins next week.

Specific intraoperative alignment goals benefit patients with severe cervical deformity

By Admin | October 14, 2019

CHICAGO — Surgical outcomes and improved health-related quality of life scores can be achieved at 1 year postoperatively when patients with more severe cervical deformity alignment are managed with surgical plans that take their unique spinal parameters into account, a presenter said at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting. Sohrab Virk, MD, and his colleagues at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York identified the three groups of more severe morphotypes of cervical deformity that need to be managed differently to be patients with cervicothoracic, flat neck and focal or kyphotic deformity.

Croatia develops successful robotised neurosurgery system

By Admin | October 11, 2019

ZAGREB, Sept 30 (Hina) – Over the past 11 years, Croatia has invested HRK 42 million in medical robotics and developed a successful robotised neurosurgery system, the Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovation and Investments has said.

Dr. Raymond Gardocki: Endoscopic spine surgery in the US — will it catch up to other countries?

By Admin | October 10, 2019

Raymond Gardocki, MD, joined Memphis, Tenn.-based Campbell Clinic Orthopedics after completing a spine surgery fellowship at the Los Angeles Spine Surgery Institute in 2004. Dr. Gardocki specializes in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery and adapted endoscopy into his practice after performing his first procedure in 2017. In February, he completed his 100th endoscopic spine surgery using Joimax technology. Although there are some challenges to overcome in the training, Dr. Gardocki maintains that endoscopy is the least invasive, safest approach to spine surgery, which allows for a decrease in morbidity rates and recovery times. Here, Dr. Gardocki shares his insight on endoscopic spine surgery and the benefits of awake surgery.

Texas’ Dismal Health Insurance Rate: Causes and Economic Impact

By Admin | October 09, 2019

Texas has the worst rate uninsured people in the country for the second year in a row, according to information released by the U.S. Census Bureau. Texas was one of only nine states to see an increase in the number of people without health insurance, as the rate increased from 17.3 percent in 2017 to 17.7 percent (around five million people) in 2018. The increase could see increased stress put on the healthcare system in North Texas and statewide, having significant economic impacts.

3 hospitals using virtual reality for preoperative, intraoperative neurosurgery

By Admin | October 08, 2019

Here are three hospitals that have incorporated virtual reality into neurosurgery procedures. Pediatric neurosurgeon Kurtis Auguste, MD, adapted virtual reality to plan procedures at University of San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland. Surgical Navigation Advanced Platform, developed by Surgical Theater, allows surgeons to navigate through the patient's brain using virtual reality.

Efficiencies, specialty teams equip hospital outpatient departments for same-day spine surgery

By Admin | October 07, 2019

CHICAGO — Although payments are sometimes lower for spine surgery performed at an ASC vs. a hospital outpatient department, a presenter here said the efficiencies and lower risk related to spine surgery performed outpatient in a hospital may make it the preferred treatment setting for many types of spine surgery cases. “Risk is something that has to be taken into great consideration here,” Michael P. Steinmetz, MD, said during a symposium at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting about ASCs as the next possible frontier in spine surgery.

Characteristics and Long-Term Outcome of 20 Children With Intramedullary Spinal Cord Cavernous Malformations

By Admin | October 04, 2019

BACKGROUND No prior reports have focused on the natural history and long-term outcomes of intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations (ISCCMs) in children. OBJECTIVE To investigate the clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes of pediatric ISCCMs and identify the risk of hemorrhage. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed a series of 20 pediatric patients (<18 yr old) from a consecutive series of 254 patients with ISCCMs evaluated at a single institution.

The Spine Journal publishes DiscGenics research for back pain treatment — 5 insights

By Admin | October 03, 2019

The Spine Journal, the official journal of the North American Spine Society, published a DiscGenics study examining preclinical testing for Discogenic Cells, reports OA Online. Five insights.

How to fix surprise billing without impeding access to care

By Admin | October 02, 2019

The AMA and other physician organizations representing hundreds of thousands of U.S. doctors are outlining for policymakers how to keep patients out of the middle of any billing disputes that arise between physicians and health insurance companies. “As your committees develop a legislative solution to protect patients from surprise medical bills, we urge you to keep in mind the potential for unintended consequences of congressional action to impact patient access to care, particularly in rural and underserved communities,” says a letter sent to the chairmen and ranking members of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Education and Labor Committee.

The Influence of Intraoperative Technology on Neurosurgery Training

By Admin | October 01, 2019

Intraoperative technology (IOT) is an expanding field designed to produce better patient outcomes and decrease iatrogenic injury. Neurosurgical residents often encounter these machines in the operating room. Therefore, our primary objective was to assess the influence of IOT on neurosurgery residents’ surgical skills and training.

FOX61 Exclusive: This man is awake, and singing, during brain surgery

By Admin | September 30, 2019

NEW HAVEN -- It's a nightmare scenario when under the knife, waking up in the middle of surgery and knowing what's going on. But in some cases, it can be a life saver. Surgeons at Yale New Haven's Smilow Cancer Hospital have perfected a procedure called an awake craniotomy. FOX61's anchor Jenn Bernstein and photographer Mike Howard were invited into the operating room, where they had a chance to see an incredible procedure first-hand.

How the spine surgery patient population is changing from 5 surgeons

By Admin | September 27, 2019

Five spine and neurosurgeons share changes in their patient population and provide insight into how it may evolve in the future. Question: How has your patient population changed over the past five years? How do you expect it to evolve in the future?

How Johnson & Johnson plans to grow orthopedic, spine robotics in the next 24 months

By Admin | September 26, 2019

Johnson & Johnson is looking to robotics and digital surgery to drive future innovation and growth in the healthcare and orthopedics space. The company has made key acquisitions in the robotics space over the past few years, including the up to $5.75 billion purchase of Auris earlier this year, and Monarch, a minimally invasive technology to obtain lung biopsies. The company also brought on Fred Moll, MD, a founder of robotics company Intuitive and Auris, to lead its robotics efforts.

Mumbai: 11-year-old Kurdistan's boy undergoes surgery for a rare spinal cord disorder: What is scoliosis?

By Admin | September 25, 2019

Mumbai: A rare spinal cord tumour forced an 11-year-old Kurdistani boy to limp for most of his life. However, after successfully undergoing complex spinal microsurgery at a hospital in Parel, the patient, Goran Shakhawan, will now be able to walk properly and can resume his normal activities like the children of his age. Goran was 5-years-old when his mother noticed that he was limping due to the shortening of his left leg and scoliosis, a condition that causes abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.

Robotic-assisted spinal fusion and emerging trends in outpatient spine surgeries: Q&A with Dr. Richard Chua

By Admin | September 24, 2019

Richard Chua, MD, is a board-certified neurosurgeon and fellow of the American College of Surgeons at Northwest NeuroSpecialists in Tucson, Ariz. Dr. Chua is a founding member of the Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and an active member of several societies including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons and North American Spine Society. Here, Dr. Chua shares his insight on artificial intelligence, robotic-assisted spinal fusion and the development of outpatient procedures in spine.

NUVASIVE LAUNCHES POROUS TITANIUM TLIF IMPLANTS

By Admin | September 23, 2019

San Diego, California-based NuVasive, Inc. has announced the commercial launch of Modulus TLIF-A, a porous titanium spine implant engineered for the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) procedure. This completes the NuVasive’s Advanced Materials Science (AMS) portfolio for all major posterior interbody fusion techniques used in TLIF. "The Modulus TLIF-A system is the perfect synergy between optimized material properties and deliverability," said Jeffrey L. Gum, M.D., orthopedic surgeon at the Norton Leatherman Spine Center. "The lattice design allows for improved imaging characteristics, a prime environment to promote fusion and an ideal modulus of elasticity. Additionally, the system optimizes surgical workflow by utilizing a single instrument for implant insertion and articulation."

Kauvery Hospital Launches Advanced Robotic Technology to Aid Neurosurgery

By Admin | September 20, 2019

The hospital said that the newly unveiled 3D microscope and robotic surgical device would help in enhancing safety and précision, besides decreasing surgical time.

CNS develops evidence-based guidelines for treatment of pediatric myelomeningocele

By Admin | September 19, 2019

The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) has developed an evidence-based guideline for the treatment of patients with myelomeningocele. Executive summaries of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines for Pediatric Myelomeningocele were published today in Neurosurgery.

MRI Interventions’ Achieves 3,000th ClearPoint® Neuro Navigation Procedure

By Admin | September 18, 2019

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 20, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MRI Interventions, Inc. (NYSE American: MRIC) announces that its ClearPoint Neuro Navigation System has recently completed its 3,000th neurosurgical procedure. “This milestone is a testament to the value surgeons are placing on precision guided therapy, especially in neurosurgery where the stakes are the highest,” commented Joe Burnett, President and CEO of MRI Interventions. “Although the timing is coincidental, we were thrilled to share this success with the team at the University of California, San Francisco, who have partnered with us for the last decade in refining our platform and ensuring the voice of not only the doctor, but also that of the patient, is included in every improvement. It is also important to note that not only did UCSF perform the 3,000th case using ClearPoint, they also performed the 3,001st case that same day. UCSF is among the now ten centers scheduling two cases per day utilizing the same MRI scanner, which has been a strategic push for us in the past year.”

Spinal cord injury — Treatment evolution and what to expect in the future from Dr. James Harrop

By Admin | September 17, 2019

James Harrop, MD, is chief of the division of spine and peripheral nerve surgery at Jefferson University Hospitals in Philadelphia as well as the neurosurgery director of the Delaware Valley SCI Center in Philadelphia and neurosurgery director for adult reconstructive spine. He details the most interesting advancements of the past decade for spine surgery and spinal cord injury, as well as which treatments are most promising for the future. Note: Responses were edited for style and clarity.

Deep Brain Stimulation

By Admin | September 16, 2019

Deep Brain Stimulation is an advanced neuromodulatory therapy that is utilized to restore function in patients with many neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, Essential and other forms of Tremor, Dystonia and patients with Neuropsychiatric Diseases. The Yale Neuromodulatory Center, led by Dr. Jason Gerrard, MD PhD, is the premier DBS center in Connecticut and one of the most active DBS centers in the NorthEast.

Dr. Jaime Nieto: Endoscopic spine surgery is the next skill patients will demand

By  | September 13, 2019

Jaime Nieto, MD, is chief of the section of neurological surgery and spine surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens. Dr. Nieto describes the big technology trends in spine today, and the threat of siloed care.

Better guidelines needed to manage postoperative spine infection

By Admin | September 12, 2019

Compared to the literature available about how to manage acute and chronic infection in the total joint arthroplasty, few guidelines are available to help orthopedic surgeons manage postoperative infection in spine surgery patients, an orthopedic spine surgeon said at the Musculoskeletal Infection Society Annual Open Scientific Meeting, here. “The large national associations, like the North American Spine Society and [American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons] AAOS, we really don’t have guidelines from them and that’s partly because of the data or the lack thereof. Clinical practice is highly variable,” Joseph H. Schwab, MD, MS, said

A Simple Retractor for Anterior Cervical Diskectomy

By Admin | September 11, 2019

Background: The insertion of available cervical retractor systems is relatively complex for the limited exposure required for single-level anterior cervical diskectomy. Objective: To introduce a novel cervical retractor system and report the initial experience of its application.

ONE UVA NEUROSURGEON’S QUEST TO IMPROVE BRAIN SURGERY AROUND THE WORLD

By Admin | September 10, 2019

When University of Virginia neurosurgeon Dr. Hasan Syed co-founded the Global Brainsurgery Initiative, he was returning his attention to a problem he first noticed as a child, traveling from his home in Northern Virginia to visit relatives in Pakistan.

Neurosurgery asks AI to help answer hard questions about injured brains

By Admin | September 09, 2019

One of the medical specialties highly hopeful in AI’s potential to guide care is neurosurgery. That’s because patients with traumatic brain injuries often present care teams and family members with an especially thorny decision: Operate to potentially save a life or withhold surgery to possibly avoid severe postsurgical disabilities? Stat News drills into the ways AI can help guide such decisions in a piece posted Aug. 14. The article’s author, Duke neurosurgeon Jacquelyn Corley, MD, wraps her discussion around the case of an elderly patient who arrived in a trauma center after a car crash. The man was unconscious and showed signs of an accumulating brain bleed.

FDA CLEARS NEXXT MATRIXX STAND ALONE CERVICAL SYSTEM

By Admin | September 06, 2019

Noblesville, Indiana-based Nexxt Spine LLC has announced that the FDA has cleared for commercial sale via the 510(k) process the NEXXT MATRIXX Stand Alone Cervical System. According to the company, “NEXXT MATRIXX Stand Alone Cervical System is a stand-alone anterior cervical interbody fusion system intended for use as an adjunct to fusion at one or two contiguous levels (C2-T1) in skeletally mature patients for the treatment of degenerative disc disease (defined as discogenic neck pain with degeneration of the disc confirmed by history and radiographic studies.”

Surgeon impresses upon physicians the value of outpatient surgery

By Admin | September 05, 2019

Richard Berger, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at Midwest Orthopedics at Rush, has performed more than 10,000 outpatient joint replacement surgeries. Now, he's trying to get more physicians to do more outpatient surgery themselves. Joint replacement patients who go home the same day of surgery are as happy, if not happier, than those who remained in the hospital, according to a study out of Rush University Medical Center led by Berger.

Responding to Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Changes During Pediatric Coronal Spinal Deformity Surgery

By Admin | September 04, 2019

Intraoperative multimodality neuromonitoring (IONM) has been established as the standard adjunct to spinal deformity surgery.1-6 Despite its universal acceptance and use, there remains significant controversy into what constitutes a neuromonitoring change, what significance does that change represent, what actions should be taken in response to the change, and which factors led to the changes.

Skills evaluation, tailored feedback: McGill AI project could change the way brain surgeons are trained

By Admin | September 03, 2019

Alexander Winkler-Schwartz focuses on the computer-generated brain on the screen while, below, his hands gently remove the virtual brain tumour inside the mannequin’s head. An artificial intelligence algorithm tracks the neurosurgery resident’s every movement – ready to classify his performance as part of a research project at McGill University, where intelligent machines are learning to rank people based on how deftly they take away the tumour.

BCBS of Texas Ordered to Pay $21 Million for “Willful Conduct of Fraud”

By Admin | August 29, 2019

A Texas judge has ordered Richardson’s Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas to pay more than $21 million to Knox County Hospital in unpaid insurance claims because of “acts to be willful conduct of fraud,” according to the Times Record News in Wichita Fallas.

Neurosurgical Awareness Month 2019 The American Association of Neurological Surgeons Focuses on the Spine

By Admin | August 29, 2019

Newswise — ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. (August 1, 2019) — In August 2019, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) has turned the focus of Neurosurgical Awareness Month to the diseases and treatments of the spine. To share information, all of the association’s Patient Pages relating to conditions and treatments of the spine, which reside on www.aans.org, were updated by fellows of the association.

A Patient's Guide to Brain Disease

By Admin | August 28, 2019

The human brain is a remarkable piece of equipment. The National Library of Medicine calls it “the control center of the body. It controls thoughts, memory, speech and movement. It regulates the function of many organs.” When your brain is healthy, it manages all those functions automatically.

Episodes of care and bundled payments, a sustainable approach

By Admin | August 27, 2019

This article is a portion of a book titled "Challenges, Risks and Opportunities in Today's Spine World " edited by Stephen Hochschuler, MD, Frank Phillips, MD, and Richard Fessler, MD. You can find links to the previous chapters at the end of this article. The healthcare industry is clearly in the middle of a learning period, the goal of which is to understand how value-based care functions differently from fee-for-service care and the benefits a shift may provide. While this comment may surprise some practitioners who are not looking beyond the horizon, make no mistake that defined bundled payment programs are a temporary practice space, and the industry is in the middle of a learning curve for the future of healthcare. The next 8-10 years will be a period of folding in more and more clinical activity until enough information can be gleaned to shape a final value-based model. Early activity in bundled programs demonstrates the development of increased use of evidenced-based medicine, a better understanding of costs, improvements in care coordination, and higher quality patient care. It is for this reason that it is extremely important not only to participate in these value-based models for educational and financial benefit, currently, but also to look with a critical eye to ensure a sustainable final model evolves.

Integrated Technology Platform Enables Better Spine Surgery

By Admin | August 26, 2019

An innovative multiple technology operating room (OR) platform helps surgeons adopt a more efficient and less disruptive minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approach in all spine procedures.

Mum's sight saved after brain tumour removed through her NOSE

By Admin | August 23, 2019

A mother's sight was saved after she had an operation to remove a brain tumour - through her nose. Jackie Llewellyn-Robinson first became aware that something might be wrong when she started to feel dizzy and lightheaded when standing up. But she had no idea of the horrible ordeal that was to come when a few days later the vision in her left eye became blurred.

Grays Harbor Community Hospital (WA) Refuses to Pay $1 Million Ransomware Demand

By Admin | August 22, 2019

As reported in Modern Healthcare, on June 15, 2019, Grays Harbor Community Hospital and its Harbor Medical Group discovered databases containing patient electronic health records (EHRs) had been hit by ransomware, which encrypted files across its network. Hackers demanded a ransom of more than one million U.S. dollars in bitcoin, a cryptocurrency. After contacting the FBI, Grays Harbor was advised to not pay the ransomware and is working with security experts to recover the affected databases and re-establish access to the entire electronic medical record (EMR). It is also working with third-party cybersecurity experts to upgrade security systems and protocols, and implement more robust backup procedures.

Brain bypass surgery performed

By Admin | August 21, 2019

A complex brain aneurysm was removed through a unique bypass surgery. Neurosurgeon D. Shyam said that the patient approached the hospital after complaining of frequent headaches and double vision. Scan revealed that a large aneurysm or an abnormal vessel dilation was located in the brain. If ruptured, it could cause sudden loss of life or a stroke.

MiRus receives FDA clearance for new spine alignment device

By Admin | August 20, 2019

MiRus received FDA 510(k) clearance for its Galileo spine alignment monitoring system. Galileo received the 2018 Spine Technology Award at the North American Spine Society meeting for excellence and innovation in spine surgery navigation. The device is a non-optical real-time measuring system for segmental and global sagittal spine alignment.

The most dangerous trend in spine surgery

By Admin | August 19, 2019

Ten spine surgeons reveal the trends in healthcare that could have a negative impact on spine surgeons and care delivery in the future. Timothy Witham, MD. Johns Hopkins Bayview (Baltimore): The usual issues, mainly insurance companies dictating the way we care for patients and limiting the opportunities for patients to receive certain treatments.

Claim That Doctor Failed to Monitor Fatal Surgery Yields $4.2M Settlement in Atlantic County

By Admin | August 16, 2019

A $4.2 million settlement was reached on July 3 in Niedzwiadek v. Anmuth, the Atlantic County case of a Southampton woman who died following routine neck surgery after the physician who was supposed to be monitoring her signals remotely allegedly was out driving and making phone calls.

NuVasive Releases Pulse Spinal Surgical System

By Admin | August 15, 2019

NuVasive, a company based in San Diego, California, is releasing its Pulse system. The product combines a number of technologies, including neuromonitoring, global alignment, rod bending, imaging with radiation reduction, and navigation, to help surgeons perform spinal procedures.

Trump adviser described as ‘key architect’ of drug-pricing blueprint to step down

By Admin | August 14, 2019

John O'Brien, a former insurance industry executive, will step down less than one year after his appointment as senior advisory to HHS Secretary Alex Azar on drug-pricing reform. He had worked for HHS since March 2017 and also previously worked for CMS.

Why Students Become Neurologists

By Admin | August 13, 2019

Hi. I'm Dr Stephen Krieger, the neurology residency program director at Mount Sinai in New York. I'm here at the American Academy of Neurology 2019 meeting in Philadelphia to tell you about an education research project that we presented this year. We have been very interested in why students become neurologists. This is a topic of interest in our field. A recent publication by Gutmann and colleagues[1] looked at some of the reasons why students said they wanted to be neurologists.

NuVasive launches Pulse integrated technology platform

By Admin | August 12, 2019

NuVasive has announced the launch of its Pulse integrated technology platform. According to a press release, “Pulse is the first, single platform to include multiple technologies designed to help surgeons adopt more efficient, less disruptive surgical approaches in all spine procedures.”

New Guideline for Trigeminal Neuralgia Released

By Admin | August 09, 2019

OSLO, Norway — All patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) should undergo MRI, a new guideline for diagnosing and treating this condition recommends. The guideline, developed by a task force of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), also recommends that neurovascular contact (NVC) should not be used to confirm a diagnosis of primary TN but to determine whether surgery is warranted.

Increase in Prevalence of Degenerative Joint Disorders Drives Shoulder Replacement Implants Market During Forecast Period

By Admin | August 08, 2019

Shoulder Replacement Implants Market Introduction Shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces the original ball and socket surfaces of the shoulder with similar shaped prosthetic implants. Various types of shoulder replacement procedures can be performed depending on the needs of patients. Some of the procedures include total shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacement, partial shoulder replacement, shoulder resurfacing, and revision shoulder arthroplasty. Embedding the right prosthetic implant depends on the type of surgical procedure to be performed. For instance, use of HemiCAP implants is an active alternative to a total shoulder replacement procedure.

8 key updates from Mayo Clinic's orthopedics, spine & neurosurgery services in the past year

By Admin | August 06, 2019

Here are eight key developments from Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic in the past year, focused on its orthopedic, spine and neurosurgery services. 1. The Mayo Clinic revealed plans to build a $233 million oncology facility on its Jacksonville, Fla., campus which will feature proton beam therapy, which is used for tumors of the spine, brain and neck among others. The treatment was introduced at Mayo's Rochester, Minn.-based campus in 2015 and Phoenix campus in 2016.

Will Telemedicine Change Practice for Neurologists?

By Admin | August 05, 2019

Teleneurology is one branch of the expanding field of telemedicine. In this exclusive MedPage Today video from the recent American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting in Philadelphia, Marisa McGinley, DO, of the Cleveland Clinic, discusses the technology's advantages and limitations for neurologists. Following is a transcript of her remarks: I think that teleneurology is not going to be the right fit for every single encounter with a patient, and it's also kind of [based on] us, as a field, learning about where it can be additive and not subtractive. Admittedly, there's a lot to figure out in that respect.

Aligarh: Malignant brain tumour removed while patient was awake

By Admin | August 02, 2019

AGRA: Neurosurgeons of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and ..

Dr. Andrew Freese: 4 Qs on spine technology and trends ahead

By Admin | August 01, 2019

Andrew Freese, MD, is a neurosurgeon at Suburban Community Hospital in East Norriton Township, Pa. Here, Dr. Freese discusses what technology he is most excited about in spine, thoughts on how to tackle the opioid epidemic and more.

California hospital showcases virtual reality technology for neurosurgery — 3 insights

By Admin | July 31, 2019

Newport Beach, Calif.-based Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian showcased Surgical Theater's virtual reality medical imaging technology in a tour of its ORs, reports The OC Register. Three insights:

Physicians Strongly Support House Effort to Protect Patients from Surprise Bills

By Admin | July 30, 2019

Out of the Middle, a coalition of leading health care providers, applauds today's introduction of the bipartisan Protecting People from Surprise Medical Bills Act. This is the only legislative framework before Congress that takes patients out of the middle of medical billing disputes, continues to ensure patients have access to health care services when and where they need them, and provides a level playing field for physicians and insurers.

Dr Scott Kutz Reveals Spine Surgery Solutions in Plano Texas

By Admin | July 29, 2019

n recent times, spine surgery has seen a major change in its procedure. What was traditionally done as “open surgery” which involved the complete exposure of the anatomy, can now be done with lesser damage to the body. This spine surgery treatment is called Minimally Invasive Surgery and has been around for quite some time.

AANS and CNS Urge Congress to Adopt Principles in Surprise Medical Bills Legislation

By Admin | July 25, 2019

On Feb. 7, the AANS and the CNS joined more than 100 state and national medical societies in sending Congress a letter outlining organized medicine’s core principles on so-called “surprise medical bills.” Given growing concern over the practice of unanticipated medical bills — largely driven by narrow insurance networks, which leaves some patients on the hook with the bill if they receive care from an out-of-network provider — Congress and the Trump Administration are considering legislation and/or regulations to address this problem.

First Came Kidney Failure. Then There Was The $540,842 Bill For Dialysis

By Admin | July 23, 2019

For months, Sovereign Valentine had been feeling progressively run-down. The 50-year-old personal trainer, who goes by "Sov," tried changing his workout and diet to no avail. Finally, one Sunday, he drove himself to the hospital in the small town of Plains, Mont., where his wife, Jessica, happened to be the physician on call. "I couldn't stop throwing up. I was just toxic."

AAOS, NASS PRAISE HEALTHCARE STICKER SHOCK LEGISLATION

By Admin | July 19, 2019

Both the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the North American Spine Society (NASS) have praised an extremely rare tri-partisan Washington initiative (Democrats and Republican in Congress; President Trump) to act on the sometimes-huge surprise medical bills patients receive after surgery. At the same time, Trump was expected to issue an executive order, possibly this work week (May 28-31) which would require caregivers to publicly post prices and might send the Justice Department after so-called regional health care monopolies (see below).

CMS finds serious deficiencies at MD Anderson

By Admin | July 18, 2019

CMS found serious care deficiencies at Houston-based MD Anderson Cancer Center during two investigations this spring, according to the Houston Chronicle. CMS investigated the facility in early April and mid-May after MD Anderson reported an adverse event involving a blood transfusion in December 2018. Regulators found issues involving nursing care, laboratory services, patient rights, institutional oversight and quality assurance, according to CMS letters cited by the Chronicle.

The modern-day twisted ethics of physician referrals. Patients would not prefer a referral based on her physician's employment arrangement rather than quality ratings but that is how our system is designed.

By Admin | July 17, 2019

Months ago, I reviewed medical claims for an employer interesting in reducing its annual increases in healthcare costs. The employer had an ordinary health plan for its covered members: a $1000 deductible and a $2500 out-of-pocket maximum. Granted, these member responsibilities might be a tough challenge for its low-wage workers but overall it was a common plan.

DOJ charges Oklahoma orthopedic surgeon, others in $4.3M compound drug prescription kickback scheme: 5 things to know

By Admin | July 15, 2019

The Department of Justice charged three Oklahoma-based physicians, including an orthopedic surgeon, are charged with violating the anti-kickback statute for their role in a scheme dating back to November 2012.

Spine payer trends in 2019: 4 surgeons identify challenges, opportunities

By Admin | July 12, 2019

The spine surgeon's ability to negotiate payer contracts and approval for procedures and new technology is an important part of running an effective practice. Here, four spine surgeons discuss the big payer trends in spine and identify opportunities for the future.

Family of New Jersey woman who died after neck surgery to get $4.2 million in settlement

By Admin | July 11, 2019

The son of a Burlington County woman who died after neck surgery is set to receive $4.2 million to settle a case involving a doctor who was allegedly out driving and making phone calls instead of remotely monitoring the operation.

Lumbar spinal fusion 90-day readmission rates: 4 key notes

By Admin | July 09, 2019

A new study published in Spine examines 90-day readmission rates for lumbar spine surgery. The study authors used the 2014 Nationwide Readmission Database to examine data for elective, inpatient, primary lumbar spine surgery patients. There were 169,788 patients included in the analysis.

Reprocessing of Pedicle Screws and Exposure in Sterile-Field Leads to Infection in Spinal Surgery

By Admin | July 03, 2019

Bacterial infections following spinal fusion occur at a rate of approximately 12.7%.1 These infections most commonly involve Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, and are linked to reprocessing (rewashing and resterilizing) pedicle screws and exposure inside “sterile-field” in spinal surgery.2-4 Reprocessed screws have been found to harbor corrosion, biofilm, endotoxins, fatty tissue, and soap residue mixed with fat, whereas exposed pedicle screws in “sterile-field” become contaminated.3-5 New research suggests that avoiding reprocessing altogether and shielding pedicle screws intraoperatively with an impermeable guard can prevent or reduce the degree of contamination and resulting surgical site infections (SSIs).4 SpineUniverse spoke with coauthors of this study—Aakash Agarwal, PhD, Neel Anand, MD, and Jeffrey C. Wang, MD—to determine the magnitude of the issue, and how to prevent surgical site contamination linked to pedicle screws in spine surgery.

Researchers study risk factors of infection of the surgical site following neurosurgery

By Admin | July 01, 2019

The infection of the surgical site following a neurosurgery operation is one of the most complex complications facing specialized surgical nursing, due to its potential danger for the appropriate recovery of the patients.

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Current Diagnosis and Treatment Options How to assess this debilitating chronic condition, which often mimics other disorders.

By Admin | June 28, 2019

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is an extremely painful yet rare orofacial pain condition, and clear understanding of its mechanism and management remains an enigma.1 Originally known as tic douloureux due to its characteristic facial tics, this disorder may be described as a paroxysmal unilateral facial pain along the distribution of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. The maxillary and mandibular branches of the trigeminal nerve are most commonly affected, followed by the ophthalmic branch.2 The incidence of TN is 4 per 100,000 individuals, but increases to 20 per 100,000 in those over age 60. It is more common in females, with a 3:2 female:male ratio, and typically presents in individuals aged 50 or older.1

Dr. Stephen Kalhorn: 2 spine devices to be excited about and key considerations for early adapters

By Admin | June 26, 2019

Stephen Kalhorn, MD, is a professor of neurosurgery at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He treats patients for spinal cord, brain and spinal column disorders, including degenerative conditions affecting the spine such as neck pain, spine fractures and scoliosis among others. Here Dr. Kalhorn discusses innovations in spine, how to tackle the opioid epidemic and more.

When a Neurology Consult Is Unnecessary

By Admin | June 24, 2019

When a Neurology Consult Is Unnecessary

Texas Is Latest State To Attack Surprise Medical Bills

By Admin | June 19, 2019

A new Texas law aims to protect patients like Drew Calver, pictured here with his wife, Erin, and daughters, Eleanor (left) and Emory, in their Austin, Texas, home. After being treated for a heart attack in April 2017, Calver, a high school history teacher, got a surprise medical bill for $108,951.

AAOS, NASS PRAISE HEALTHCARE STICKER SHOCK LEGISLATION

By Admin | June 19, 2019

Both the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the North American Spine Society (NASS) have praised an extremely rare tri-partisan Washington initiative (Democrats and Republican in Congress; President Trump) to act on the sometimes-huge surprise medical bills patients receive after surgery. At the same time, Trump was expected to issue an executive order, possibly this work week (May 28-31) which would require caregivers to publicly post prices and might send the Justice Department after so-called regional health care monopolies (see below).

AANS and CNS Urge Congress to Adopt Principles in Surprise Medical Bills Legislation

By Admin | June 19, 2019

On Feb. 7, the AANS and the CNS joined more than 100 state and national medical societies in sending Congress a letter outlining organized medicine’s core principles on so-called “surprise medical bills.

Study Finds First Effective Scalable Intervention for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

By Admin | June 17, 2019

A study run at five military and veterans' hospitals has identified the first highly-scalable intervention for addressing cognitive deficits that can occur after mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). The study results were presented at the 9th Annual Traumatic Brain Injury Conference in Washington DC. The intervention studied was the brain training app BrainHQ, made by Posit Science.

Effectiveness of tonic and burst motor cortex stimulation in chronic neuropathic pain

By Admin | June 14, 2019

Motor cortex stimulation (MCS) is an intracranial, invasive method for treatment of chronic pain. Main indications for MCS are central post stroke pain, neuropathic facial pain, phantom limb pain and brachial plexus or spinal cord injury pain. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) with burst waveform has been proved to be more effective than tonic mode in chronic pain. Necessity to replace depleted batteries of motor cortex tonic stimulators gave us an opportunity of applying burst stimulation. The objective of the pilot study was to evaluate the effects of burst stimulation applied on motor cortex in patients with chronic pain syndromes as well as comparison to tonic mode.

3 Brain Aneurysm Risk Factors You Can Control (and 4 You Can’t)

By Admin | June 13, 2019

A brain aneurysm can happen to anyone at any time, even if they’re more common in people over the age of 40. It’s important to understand which brain aneurysm risk factors you can’t avoid and the ones you can take control of yourself.

Orthopedic surgeons weigh in on NFL ‘myths’ vs ‘facts’ about youth football injuries

By Admin | June 11, 2019

Troy Vincent Sr., the executive vice president of football operations at the National Football League, recently posted five “myths” about youth football and related injuries, as well as “facts” to debunk each myth, on his Facebook page. The document has come under fire in some circles because it has been said the league’s sole intent in issuing it is to refute some of the beliefs that playing tackle football at the high school and lower levels is unsafe.

How Video Games Change the Brain

By Admin | June 08, 2019

This year's American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting featured a nook of the exhibit hall called the Innovation Hub. Per the AAN website, it was intended to "…offer dynamic, interactive opportunities to explore the brain's final frontiers."

When the Brain Hits Your Eyes: Searching for a Revelation

By Admin | June 05, 2019

Wednesday morning, October 10, 2018. I was standing in an OR, 2,500 km away from my home and my medical school, trying to recall the five layers of the scalp to answer the question posed by Dr L., a seasoned neurosurgeon who was the leading physician in my first ever observation of a neurosurgical procedure. It was my starting day as a clinical attachment student in the neurosurgical oncology department of a National Health Service Hospital in the United Kingdom, and I was waiting to participate in a craniotomy for the removal of a malignant brain tumor.

Health Tip: Treating Scoliosis

By Admin | May 31, 2019

Scoliosis is an abnormal curve of the spine. Often diagnosed in early adolescence, most cases show symptoms such as uneven shoulders, waist or hips, says the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

Healthcare groups react to House surprise billing proposal

By Admin | May 30, 2019

The outline of a forthcoming House proposal to end surprise medical bills has drawn mixed reactions from healthcare groups.

FEDS BUST $1.2 BILLION MEDICARE ORTHOPEDIC BRACE SCAM

By Admin | May 24, 2019

The United States Department of Justice has announced that it has broken up a $1.2 billion Medicare scam that sold unneeded orthopedic braces to seniors around the country.

Spine Center Network: Key thoughts on artificial disc replacement

By Admin | May 21, 2019

A spinal fusion has been the traditional treatment for a herniated disc but Sanjay Jatana, MD, a fellowship-trained cervical spine specialist at a Denver-based spine center within Spine Center Network, says that may no longer be the case.

6 spine, neurosurgeon moves in April

By Admin | May 16, 2019

Over the past month, six spine and neurosurgeons joined new practices or were promoted to new leadership roles within their organization.

Improvements Sustained 10 Years After Cervical Disc Replacement

By Admin | May 09, 2019

Improvements were sustained at 10 years for patients treated with the Mobi-C cervical disc in the trial that led to its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013, a new study shows.

New surgical technique improves fixation and minimizes complications in shoulder replacement surgery

By Admin | May 02, 2019

New medical evidence shows improved mechanical fixation with a novel inset shoulder implant that minimizes surgical complications and may increase the longevity of artificial shoulder replacements. This new study in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery demonstrates, for the first time, successful long-term results with a promising new technology that is gaining the attention of shoulder surgeons.

20-year study finds link between mid-life inflammation and cognitive decline in old age

By Admin | April 30, 2019

New research suggests chronic inflammation may be a useful biomarker for future cognitive decline in later life.

New research findings could be key to improving outcomes for some brain cancers

By Admin | April 22, 2019

Researchers from the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center have found that a genetic mutation seen in about half of all brain tumors produces a response that prevents radiation treatment from working. Altering that response using US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs restores tumors’ sensitivity to radiation therapy, extending survival in mice.

The Case for Culture

By  | April 18, 2019

Neuromonitoring should be a critical part of any operating room; it gives surgeons real-time insight into what is happening to their patient during a procedure.

Are Soccer Pros at Higher Risk for ALS?

By Admin | April 17, 2019

Professional soccer players may be vulnerable to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a new study suggests.

Texas bill would protect physicians who deny care based on religious beliefs

By Admin | April 09, 2019

Texas lawmakers on Monday advanced a bill that would extend legal cover to state-licensed professionals who deny services based on their faith, according to the Dallas News.

Kaiser Permanente paid Baltimore mayor over $100K for books while seeking city contract

By Admin | April 04, 2019

Kaiser Permanente paid Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh about $114,000 for about 20,000 copies of her self-published children's books while the healthcare organization was seeking a lucrative contract from a spending board controlled by the mayor, The Baltimore Sun reported this week.

Neurologists overwhelmed by stroke calls

By Admin | April 01, 2019

An increased demand for stroke evaluations at St. Charles Bend has overwhelmed community neurologists, leading to an overhaul of stroke care at the hospital and the injection of new stroke care expertise.

Emergency/urgent hospitalizations linked to accelerated cognitive decline in older adults

By Admin | March 26, 2019

Emergency and urgent hospitalizations are associated with an increased rate of cognitive decline in older adults, report researchers at Rush University Medical Center. Results of their study, published in the Jan. 11, 2019, online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, shows that hospitalization may be a more of a major risk factor for long-term cognitive decline in older adults than previously recognized.

College student who thought she had ‘common cold’ diagnosed with brain cancer

By Admin | March 21, 2019

A college freshman who thought her headaches were symptoms of a common cold that she had picked up after moving into her new dorm this fall has been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Laura Nuttall, 19, has already undergone brain surgery and radiotherapy for the tumors, but her family says that they’re not sure how much time she has left.

Treatment of Adults with Metastatic Brain Tumors : CNS Updates Guidelines

By Admin | March 18, 2019

The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) has updated it's evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of adults with metatstic brain tumors, first published in 2010.

Study finds link between big bellies and shrinking brains

By Admin | March 15, 2019

Big belly, small brain? As if muffin toppers didn’t have enough to deal with, a new study that an expanding waistline triggers a shrinking brain.

Brain death diagnosis should be supported by uniform laws, policies: AAN

By Admin | March 11, 2019

"The American Academy of Neurology believes that a specific, uniform standard for the determination of brain death is critically important to provide the highest quality patient-centered neurologic and end-of-life care," Dr. James A. Russell from Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, MA, told Reuters Health in an email interview.

Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: 2-Dimensional Surgical Video

By Admin | March 07, 2019

This operative video is a detailed look at minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

Insurer skips doctors and sends massive checks to patients, prompting million-dollar lawsuit

By Admin | March 04, 2019

A woman received nearly $375,000 from her insurance company over several months for treatment she received at a California rehabilitation facility. A man received more than $130,000 after he sent his fiancée's daughter for substance abuse treatment. Those allegations are part of a lawsuit winding its way through federal court that accuses Anthem and its Blue Cross entities of paying patients directly in an effort to put pressure on health care providers to join their network and to accept lower payments.

Utilization of intraoperative neuromonitoring throughout the United States over a recent decade: an analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample

By Admin | February 25, 2019

Adult and pediatric spine surgeries have increased in numbers over the last several years (1). Given the difficult nature of spine surgery, ranging from simple lumbar decompression to advanced spinal deformity, iatrogenic neurologic injury is a rare but real complication. Recent studies have shown that the annual incidence of perioperative neurologic deficits after cervical and lumbar spine surgery increased by 54% from 0.68% in 1999 to 1.05% in 2011 (2). These neurologic complications are especially prevalent (up to 8%) in procedures requiring vertebral column resections (VCR). Given these findings, a reliable method of detecting potential neurologic complication during spinal surgery is essential (3,4).

Commentary: Costs and Their Predictors in Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

By Admin | February 22, 2019

This paper explores the vast Truven MarketScan database (IBM, Armonk, New York) to compare costs associated with transsphenoidal microsurgical and transsphenoidal endoscopic approaches, using data derived from healthcare claims to multiple health plans and employers in 2010 to 2014.

Researchers compare focused ultrasound and DBS for essential tremor

By Admin | February 15, 2019

Focused ultrasound (FUS) thalamotomy and deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus provide similar benefits for patients with essential tremor, according to two presentations delivered at the annual meeting of the North American Neuromodulation Society. The techniques’ surgical procedures, associated risks, and adverse event profiles may influence neurologists and patients in their choice of treatment.

Technology helps , New Mexico teacher at Covenant Health

By Admin | February 12, 2019

A Clovis High School teacher is quickly recovering after having technology-aided open brain surgery in December. Brain mapping technology was used during the procedure at Covenant Health to remove a part of Marco Hicks’ brain that was causing epilepsy and debilitating seizures.

70% OF M.D.S STRESSED BY EHRS, ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS HIT WORST

By Admin | February 05, 2019

Orthopedists as a group are suffering more stress from being metaphorically chained to electronic health records systems (EHRs) than any other specialty, a new study says.

The Texas Medical Association’s 2019 Legislative Priorities

By Admin | January 31, 2019

With Texas making headlines regarding its uninsured rate and rural hospital closings, the Texas Medical Association has a tall task ahead of the 2019 legislative session in Austin. The 2018 election saw Democratic gains across the country, including Texas, but the state still remains in Republican hands. Legislators will have a chance to improve some of the state’s most persistent problems, and the TMA hopes to represent physicians and uphold its mission of improving the health of all Texans.

Aerobic Exercise Might Help Older Adults with Thinking Problems

By Admin | January 28, 2019

Anxious about your aging brain? The study was published this week in the online medical journal for the American Academy of Neurology. However, specialists who are not yet convinced of its effects would find this new study as a "randomized, clinical trial" that proves its beneficial result, via WSLS.

Xenith Shadow Aims to Up Football Safety

By Admin | January 23, 2019

While football helmets have come a long way from their initial leather design—which only featured a little, if any, padding—the potential for concussions and reducing injury has maintained at the forefront of the industry.

MS Treatment Decisions Can Cause a ‘Gambler’s Dilemma’

By Admin | January 16, 2019

One of the toughest decisions facing someone with MS is whether to begin treatment with a disease-modifying therapy (DMT). Equally tough, I think, is deciding which DMT road to travel — because there are three roads that can be followed.

The No. 1 takeaway from the 2019 JP Morgan Healthcare Conference: It's the platform, stupid

By Admin | January 14, 2019

If you want to understand the shifting sands of healthcare, you'll find no better place than the nonprofit provider track during the infamous JP Morgan Healthcare Conference that took place this week in San Francisco.

How Are Hospitals Posting Their Prices, and Is It Helpful?

By Admin | January 09, 2019

The Public Health Act was enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act, which requires hospitals to make a public list of the hospital’s standard charges starting this year, but the posted price doesn’t tell the full story. Insurance, a person’s health, and the negotiated rate between insurers and providers complicates the out-of-pocket payment, the posted prices might not mean much to the average consumer.

Brain surgery leaves OKC man feeling the best he has in years

By Admin | January 07, 2019

As recently as a month ago, Bryan Williams had to plan every day carefully, making the most of the time between when his medications kicked in and when they wore off, leaving him exhausted and in pain.

Health in Focus: Benign Brain Tumors

By Admin | January 02, 2019

A brain tumor isn’t always cancer, and it’s not always a devastating diagnosis.

Health in Focus: Herniated Discs

By Admin | December 29, 2018

A herniated disc can cause pain, numbness or weakness in an arm of a leg, but there are plenty of treatments designed to help.

For Your Health: When is it appropriate for me to see a neurosurgeon?

By Admin | December 18, 2018

Despite the fact that neurosurgery is critical to treating a variety of medical conditions — from brain tumors and strokes to aneurysms, disorders of the spine and more — many people don’t know much about it. For one thing, many think that neurosurgery simply refers to brain surgery — and while it does include brain surgery, it also encompasses much more. The term is actually short for neurological surgery, and it involves the diagnosis and treatment of disorders or injuries that affect any part of the nervous system, including the brain, spine, cervical spine (neck) and nerves throughout the body.

5-year-old defies the odds after invasive neurosurgery to remove tumor

By Admin | December 11, 2018

Games are the building blocks for five-year-old Rebecca Roper of Enid. She's having fun at her latest physical therapy appointment, building a wall out of huge cardboard blocks. Soon they switch to tossing balls, and then Rebecca holds her therapist's hand tightly as she walks barefoot along a stretch of wooden board.

Costs curbing the rise of robotics in spinal surgery

By Admin | December 04, 2018

The era of routine robotic-assisted spinal surgery is on the horizon. Despite the hype, however, there remains little market penetration, with affordability and the degree of value-added by such technology representing significant barriers to complete disruption of standard practice.

Bio2 launches study of bioactive glass spinal implant

By Admin | November 27, 2018

Orthopedics company Bio2 Technologies has received FDA approval to begin enrollment in an IDE clinical study to evaluate its Vitrium bioactive glass as a cervical interbody fusion device. Vitrium will be evaluated as a structural device that facilitates bone remodeling via a gradual conversion from Vitrium to the patient’s own bone.

Pseudarthrosis following single-level ACDF is five times more likely when a PEEK interbody device is used

By Admin | November 21, 2018

In spine surgery, "arthrodesis" is the term used to describe fusion of adjacent vertebrae following removal of an intervertebral disc. Arthrodesis is achieved by placing a bone graft or bone graft substitute between the vertebrae to bridge the empty space so that new bone can grow between. "Pseudarthrosis" is the term used to describe failure of this expected new bone growth.

What neurologists are doing to combat high burout

By Admin | November 19, 2018

In a survey of about 1,600 active neurologists, the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) found that 60 percent experienced at least one symptom of burnout. A high number of neurology residents (73 percent) and fellows (55 percent) were also affected by burnout. With such a high rate of burnout among neurologists, the AAN began mitigation attempts at the individual, organizational and national levels at the same time as they measured burnout.

Clinical benefits of minimally invasive spinal fusion appear to “diminish” as a function of fusion length

By Admin | November 13, 2018

A recent study has concluded that the clinical benefits of a minimally invasive surgical technique appear to “diminish” as a function of fusion length. The data, which examined the relationship between open versus minimally invasive lumbar fusion and the number of levels fused, were presented by Virginie Lafage (Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, USA) at the North American Spine Society (NASS) annual meeting (24–29 September, Los Angeles, USA).

Yoga for Low Back Pain

By Admin | November 09, 2018

Low back pain is the leading cause of work-related disability in the United States!

Doctors say proposed Medicare fee idea will cut visit times, hurt patients

By Admin | November 06, 2018

For those of you who are 65 or older and covered by Medicare, medical care may soon change for the worse, as many doctors see it.

This teen's body was 'bending by the hour.' His 18th surgery changed his life

By Admin | October 30, 2018

John Sarcona was at a baseball game when his mother Joanne found the bloodied T-shirts in his laundry hamper. His bedding was bloody too, and she knew something had gone terribly wrong.

NASS 2018: Robotic platforms take center stage

By Admin | October 25, 2018

Medtech companies in the spinal market are rushing to join the robotic revolution, with Medtronic (NYSE:MDT) and Globus Medical (NYSE:GMED) leading the pack, according to a Leerink Partner analyst’s note from the North American Spine Society’s 2018 annual meeting.

Tool helps surgeons preoperatively determine readmission after spine fusion

By Admin | October 23, 2018

Results of a preoperative score — the readmission after posterior spine fusion or RAPSF score — can help predict which patients are likely to require readmission after elective one- and two-level posterior lumbar fusion. Furthermore, it may help during joint decision-making to assess whether a patient is indicated for surgery or requires presurgical optimization, a presenter said.

Cervical, thoracic spine fractures spike, study shows — 5 findings

By Admin | October 17, 2018

The incidence of cervical and thoracic spine fractures has increased, especially in white females ages 80 to 89, according to a study reported at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, Sept. 26-29.

Reduced ASD incidence seen at 5 years with maintained lumbar TDR motion

By Admin | October 15, 2018

LOS ANGELES — The evolution of total disc replacement prostheses over time from devices with constrained cores to ones with more mobile cores may ultimately help mitigate adjacent segment disease in patients, according to results of a post hoc analysis presented at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting.

Outpatient ACDF linked with increased rate of perioperative surgical, medical complications

By Admin | October 12, 2018

LOS ANGELES — Patients undergoing outpatient anterior cervical discectomy and fusion may have a greater risk for perioperative complications than patients who undergo the surgery as an inpatient procedure, according to results presented at the North American Spine Society Annual Meeting.

Spineology U.S. Clinical Trial for Interbody Fusion

By Admin | October 10, 2018

Spineology Inc., an innovator in anatomy-conserving spine surgery, is excited to announce that John Chi, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Professor of Neurosurgery at Harvard Medical School and the Director of Neurosurgical Spinal Oncology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, presented 12-month outcomes data from Spineology’s SCOUT clinical trial at the recent annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in Los Angeles, California.

Officials say Baylor Scott & White, Memorial Hermann Merger Will Reduce Costs

By Admin | October 04, 2018

Two of the largest nonprofit health systems in Texas have signed a letter of intent to merge into a combined entity. Baylor Scott & White Health and Memorial Hermann Health System say they are coming together to increase integrated and cost-effective healthcare that is focused on the consumer.

Health and fitness facts and advice for 40 somethings - an expert Q&A

By Admin | October 02, 2018

People who improve their health and fitness post-40 can expect a healthier and happier time of it in midlife.

5 details on outpatient spine surgery safety in ASCs from 'Neurosurgery' analysis

By Admin | September 28, 2018

Research published in Neurosurgery found outpatient spine procedures are just as safe or safer than procedures performed in an inpatient setting.

New developments in EEG brain scans could help spot mental disorders early

By Admin | September 26, 2018

Patients suffering from mental and neurological disorders, including autism, ADHD and dementia, could benefit from new developments in brain scanning technology.

Improving neurosurgery for malignant brain tumors

By Admin | September 25, 2018

Important research by Barrow Neurological Institute neurosurgeons and University of Washington (UW) scientists on novel imaging technology for malignant brain tumors was published in the August issue of the Nature journal, Scientific Reports.

Good nutrition helps in healing

By Admin | September 19, 2018

Holly Pittard is a Brody medical student who has an interest in physical medicine and rehabilitation as well as family medicine. For those of you who may have never met doctors who specialize in PMR, they are nerve, muscle, bone and brain experts who treat injury or illness nonsurgically to decrease pain and restore function. You can read more about PMR at www.aapmr.org. Here is what Holly wants you to know.

Top Sloan Kettering Cancer Doctor Resigns After Failing to Disclose Industry Ties

By Admin | September 17, 2018

This article was reported and written in a collaboration with ProPublica, the nonprofit investigative journalism organization. Dr. José Baselga, the chief medical officer of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, resigned on Thursday amid reports that he had failed to disclose millions of dollars in payments from health care companies in dozens of research articles.

Deep Learning IDs Neurological Scans 150 Times Faster than Humans

By Admin | September 12, 2018

An artificial intelligence platform identified neurological diseases in CT scans 150 times faster than human clinicians.

Have a bad back? Here's how to move past the fear of exercise

By Admin | September 06, 2018

Not moving is the worst thing you can do for back pain. When you've been cleared to exercise, try these core-strengthening moves instead.

Treatment of New-Onset Epilepsy: AAN, AES Update Practice Guidelines

By Admin | September 04, 2018

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and the American Epilepsy Society (AES) have provided new recommended practice guidelines for the management of new-onset and treatment-resistant epilepsy with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs).1,2 The new guidelines highlight the evidence supporting the use of lamotrigine, vigabatrin, levetiracetam, pregabalin, gabapentin, and zonisamide for reducing the frequency of seizures in new-onset focal epilepsy and treatment-resistant epilepsy.

The eyes may have it, an early sign of Parkinson's disease

By Admin | August 30, 2018

Thinning of retina linked to loss of brain cells that control movement The eyes may be a window to the brain for people with early Parkinson's disease. People with the disease gradually lose brain cells that produce dopamine, a substance that helps control movement. Now a new study has found that the thinning of the retina, the lining of nerve cells in the back of the eye, is linked to the loss of such brain cells.

China: Innovative Hybrid PEEK-titanium Expandable Cage for DLIF and OLIF Procedures Demonstrated

By Admin | August 27, 2018

The growing interest in PEEK-OPTIMA™ spinal implants in China received further impetus at the 11th Congress of the Chinese Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (CAOS) held in partnership with the North American Spine Society (NASS). At this event, Fule Science & Technology Development, Beijing, and Invibio Biomaterial Solutions partnered to demonstrate the new Uplifter® Expandable Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Device in a hands-on workshop in Shanghai.

Zavation Launches Facet Screw and Sacroiliac (SI) Screw Systems

By Admin | August 22, 2018

Zavation, an employee-owned medical device company that designs, develops, manufactures and distributes medical device products, announced today the launch of a fenestrated Facet Screw system and a Sacroiliac (SI) Screw system.

The key to success in spine surgery? Data — 5 things to know about NeuroPoint Alliance

By Admin | August 20, 2018

In 2008, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons developed the NeuroPoint Alliance to improve the quality of neurosurgical care. The database is a central registry for members to track acquisitions, analysis and clinical data reporting. Here are five things to know about the nonprofit organization:

How long before value-based care becomes attainable?

By Admin | August 14, 2018

The path to value-based care in healthcare is becoming murky. After a few years of heightened promise and hope, the current and near future reality...

Mount Sinai’s medical school opens blockchain research center

By Admin | August 14, 2018

As blockchain technology has moved from cryptocurrency to other fields, one of New York’s medical schools has opened a center to study its us...

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market: Global Industry Forecast, Market Trends, Market Size and Growth 2026| Credence Research

By Admin | May 29, 2018

The new market report on Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market includes data for important years 2018, the post year of the estimate is 2018 and the projection period is 2018 to 2026. Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market is anticipated to hit the Mark of US $ 4.01 Bn 2026 with expanding at a CAGR of 4.7% in 2018 to 2026.

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market Size and Share 2018: Medtronic plc., Computational Diagnostics, Inc., NuVasive, Inc., Inomed Medizintechnik GmbH

By Admin | May 29, 2018

The Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market is anticipated to hit $ 4.01 Bn by 2026 with a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period 2018 to 2026 in terms of shipment and revenue, respectively during the projection period 2018-2026. The Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market is observing an active growth, increasing rate of Topical Excipients, favorable compensation policies, and increased government funding. The Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market has been sectioned On the basis of product type.

Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market 2018 By Manufacturers – Biotronic, Cadwell, Cicel, Dr. Langer, Evokes

By Admin | May 29, 2018

Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market 2018 Report presents a professional and deep analysis on the present state of the Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring market which was achieved using the meticulous qualitative insights and the statistical data of the market. The research methodologies were applied during the analysis to prepare the whole document as well as the chronological data that was collected and verified through several important studies.

Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (Ionm) Market Analysis 2018 Rhythmlink, Cadwell, CM&F, Procirca and SafeOp Surgical

By Admin | May 29, 2018

The “Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (Ionm) Market” report is the comprehensive compilation highlight the key players operating in market. The report analyses the key trends including product introduction, new business approaches, collaborations, technological development and various other stats applicable in the competitive market by the major market players.

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) Devices Sales Market Analysis by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application

By  | May 29, 2018

Global Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) Devices Sales Market research report will help you take informed decisions, understand opportunities, plan effective business strategies, plan new projects, analyse drivers and restraints and give you a vision on the industry forecast. Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) Devices Sales Market report would come in handy to understand your competitors and give you an insight about sales; volumes, revenues in the Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) Devices Sales industry. Both established and new players in Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) Devices Sales industry can use report to understand the market.

Robotically controlled digital microscope provides new visualization system in operating room

By  | May 29, 2018

The Department of Neurosurgery at the Mount Sinai Health System is one of the first hospitals in the country to use Modus V™, a hands-free, robotically controlled digital microscope that provides advanced visualization in the operating room. The system features a robotic arm with a high-definition camera that projects digital images of neuroanatomy on larger monitors. The system is an alternative to the traditional operating microscope, a mainstay in modern neurosurgery that features an ocular, or eyepiece, used by the surgeon to see magnified images of the brain.

United States Neurosurgical Prosthesis Market 2018

By Admin | May 09, 2018

The report Neurosurgical Prosthesis Market 2018 presents a widespread and fundamental study of Neurosurgical Prosthesis industry along with the analysis of subjective aspects which will provide key business insights to the readers.

Global Monopolar Forceps Market 2018

By Admin | May 09, 2018

The Report entitled Global Monopolar Forceps Market 2018 analysis the important factors of the Monopolar Forceps market based on present industry situations, market demands, business strategies utilized by Monopolar Forceps market players and their growth synopsis.

Robotic-assisted Surgery Successfully Removes a Rare Tumor

By Admin | May 09, 2018

Noah Pernikoff, a young American, is back to his daily life in New York City after becoming the very first patient in the world to go through a complex three-part, robotic-assisted surgery. The robotic arms made the surgery possible for the multidisciplinary team at Penn to remove a rare tumor from Noah’s neck successfully. The tumor was removed from the junction where the skull meets the spine.

Brain signal discovery may let Parkinson's patients sleep through brain surgery

By Admin | May 09, 2018

As if the prospect of neurosurgery isn't daunting enough, the idea of having to remain awake for the procedure is enough to turn many Parkinson's disease sufferers off potentially life-changing deep brain stimulation surgery altogether. But now researchers at the Bionics Institute in Melbourne have discovered a unique brain signal that might allow electrodes to be inserted at the correct location in the brain without the patient being conscious.

Global MI Neurosurgery Devices Market 2018 Research

By Admin | May 09, 2018

The research report on “Global MI Neurosurgery Devices Market” delivers detailed prognosis on current and forecast market situation of MI Neurosurgery Devices in the assessment period, 2018-2023. The report examines MI Neurosurgery Devices market growth history, sales channel, manufacturers profiled in MI Neurosurgery Devices industry, a market share of product type, application and scope of a region in detail.

Medical Discovery News: Robots speed up neurosurgery

By Admin | May 09, 2018

Robots are in homes, factories and also in hospitals. Robot-assisted surgery has been around since at least 1985. Since then, robots have been used in developing minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopies using flexible fiber optic cameras. The first robotic surgical system, the daVinci Surgery System, received FDA approval in 2000. In a recent advance, a robot was used to cut a precise hole in a skull and it took only 2½ minutes rather than the usual two hours, a game changer for neurosurgery.

Secretary Says Change is Coming

By Admin | March 14, 2018

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar told a room of hospital executives that the Trump administration is going to give more power to patients, whether hospitals, drug companies, and insurance companies like it or not.

The Future of Healthcare Records

By Admin | March 12, 2018

Hospitals have never been held accountable when it comes to healthcare costs, says Dr. Josh Luke, a healthcare futurist, University of Southern California faculty, hospital CEO. In his latest article for Forbes, he outlines the insanity of how hospitals have never had to disclose prices for services and procedures before they take place, a practice unlike any other industry.

Apple to make EHRs available on iPhone

By Admin | February 28, 2018

Wired Magazine has an article detailing how Apple is planning on making electronic health records (EHRs) available through people’s iOS devices. Google made a similar move but failed. However, Apple has a track record of doing what others can’t.

More is needed to lower drug costs

By Admin | February 26, 2018

Trump’s proposed plans to lower the costs of pharmaceuticals have many skeptics who say much more needs to be done, an article by FierceHealthcare says.

Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, JP Morgan and Healthcare

By Admin | February 12, 2018

An online retailer, a holding company and a bank could disrupt healthcare as we know it. The three companies, Amazon.com, Berkshire Hathaway and JP Morgan Chase, are banding together to circumvent the complicated web of the U.S. healthcare system and provide their own health services to their employees.

U.S. Uninsured Rate Rises to 12.2%

By Admin | February 05, 2018

Between 2016 and 2017, the number of uninsured Americans rose by 3.2 million people, leaving 12.2 percent of the population without health insurance.

The Greatest Living Canadian

By Admin | January 31, 2018

Dr. Wilder Penfield was a pioneer of neurosurgery, having published brain maps in 1937 and 1950 that surgeons still use today. He also created the Montreal procedure, along with his colleague Herber Jasper, which uses electrical probes on a patient’s brain while he or she is awake in order to find the locations of seizure activity.

Preventing physician suicide

By Admin | January 29, 2018

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 300 to 400 physicians commit suicide every year. During the physician training period, around 28 percent experience a major depressive episode compared to seven percent in the general U.S. population.

Politico’s Top 2017 Health Care Surprises

By Admin | January 22, 2018

Much was said on Capitol Hill about health care, but not too much was done in 2017. Here are Politico’s 10 key takeaways from the first year of health care under the Trump administration.

3D Printing and Medicine

By Admin | January 15, 2018

There were two twin boys conjoined at the head, but before being wheeled into the operating room, their team of surgeons was able to plan ahead with 3D models of the boys’ actual sculls. Taken from CT scans, the models were created with a 3D printer, and they gave the surgeons the unique ability to accurately assess every step of the very complex surgery.

Healthcare Challenges for 2018

By Admin | January 10, 2018

It isn’t a secret that 2017 was full of political drama surrounding healthcare. And the uncertainty will definitely continue into 2018. There will also be cybersecurity threats, social determinants of patients’ health, and focusing on the patient experience to face, according to Benjamin Isgur, leader of PwC's Health Research Institute.

Common Traits in 90-101 Year Olds

By Admin | January 08, 2018

In a remote Italian region lives a few hundred people over the age of 90. They have shown to be in excellent mental health, even if their bodies are showing their age.

CVS Pharmacy Purchases Aetna

By Admin | December 13, 2017

Could CVS’s $69 billion purchase of one of the largest health insurers in the U.S. change the healthcare game?

Apple Watch to Detect Atrial Fibrillation

By Admin | December 11, 2017

Apple has partnered with Stanford University to create an app for the latest iWatch that can hopefully detect heart irregularities. Together, they’re launching a study to see if the app can indeed help patients.

Pros and Cons of Patient Portals

By Admin | December 06, 2017

Patient portals provide an easy way for patients to see their lab results, prescription information, doctor’s notes, and more, from the convenience of home--and without having to call and wait.

Physician burnout leads to mistakes

By Admin | December 04, 2017

Doctors take care of us, but who’s taking care of the doctor? Studies are showing that doctors are increasingly hitting burnout status and suffering from depression, which in turn leads to their making medical errors.

Tracking health with smart devices

By Admin | November 29, 2017

Fitness trackers like Apple’s popular iWatch and the Fitbit can already monitor a wearer’s sleeping habits, heart rate and steps with impressive accuracy.

Mergers and Healthcare’s Future

By Admin | November 27, 2017

When CVS, the well known pharmacy chain, considered purchasing Aetna, one of the nation’s largest health insurers, it shed some light on the future of American healthcare.

Pay missed health insurance premiums ASAP

By Admin | November 20, 2017

If you fall behind on your health insurance payments, you generally have 90 days to pay before any sort of penalty, thanks to the Affordable Care Act.

The Importance of Empathy in Healthcare

By Admin | November 15, 2017

Dr. Adrienne Boissy, chief experience officer of Cleveland Clinic Health System, believes empathy plays a huge part in patient care.

Ochsner offers healthcare 24-7

By Admin | November 13, 2017

Ochsner Health Care of Louisiana is using technology in order to keep tabs on patients in real time, even offering assistance right after they “go out of bounds.”

Possible deal reached to fund insurance subsidies

By Admin | November 06, 2017

Senators Lamar Alexander, Republican of Tennessee, and Patty Murray, Democrat of Washington, have a bipartisan plan to to fund critical subsidies to insurers and hopefully stabilize the health insurance market in the wake of President Trump’s order to cut funding.

Medicare: What you need to know

By Admin | November 01, 2017

If you’re on Medicare, it’s the time to renew your coverage for 2018, but there’s a right way and a wrong way to obtain your coverage.

President Trump promises healthcare changes

By Admin | October 30, 2017

Since Congress hasn’t been able to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, as promised, President Trump is now taking it upon himself with an executive order that he recently teased at a meeting with former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.

The US Needs Immigrant Doctors

By Admin | October 25, 2017

Right now, the United States isn’t producing enough doctors to fill the many spots needed in order to care for our population. Without doctors immigrating from other countries, we would have a severe lack of healthcare providers.

Singapore's Health Care System

By Admin | October 18, 2017

At birth, citizens of Singapore can expect to live almost three years longer than in Britain or the US, not to mention infant mortality is far lower. The population also pays far less for healthcare than the US, ranking sixth in the world in quality where we rank 37.

Med Students Need More Emphasis on Analytics

By Admin | October 16, 2017

With a higher focus on using technology to keep up with patient records, many doctors complain that they’re simply data entry clerks and not doctors. But the truth is, doctors aren’t being taught what their data entry makes possible--saving even more lives than before.

States with highest health costs tend to rank lowest in care

By Admin | October 09, 2017

In Louisiana and Oklahoma, families spend 1.7 percent of their income, on average, on health expenses. In New York and New Jersey, families averaged closer to one percent. However, US News ranked Louisiana and Oklahoma in the bottom five states when it comes to healthcare.

The Health Care War Continues

By Admin | October 04, 2017

John Cassidy, staff writer at the New Yorker, has been writing about politics and economics for the paper since 1995. In his 20-plus years, he’s seen much happen. His latest article outlines the most recent attempts by the Trump administration to repeal, replace, re-do the Affordable Healthcare Act, otherwise known as Obamacare, and why they keep failing and trying again.

Women in Health Care

By Admin | October 02, 2017

Of the women who work and have kids under 18, 94 percent of those women make healthcare decisions for people other than themselves. They research doctors, ailments, hospitals, insurance, and everything else that comes with monitoring someone’s health.

Health-Care Blockchains

By Admin | September 27, 2017

When it comes to technology, MIT is one of the top authorities. In their online technology review, they have posted a solution for making electronic health records safer, yet more accessible for care providers, while allowing clinics and hospitals to keep using the software they want to.

Similarities Between Flood & Health Insurance

By Admin | September 25, 2017

Some areas are prone to flooding. And most of us will at some point need very expensive medical care, thanks to longer lifespans. But for some reason, people have purchased less flood insurance in the last five years--9 percent less in Houston and 15 percent less in Florida.

How hospitals plan for hurricanes & other disasters

By Admin | September 20, 2017

With the recent storms hitting Florida and Texas, hospitals in those areas have done their best to remain open in order to help people heal. But just like houses and other businesses, hospitals also suffer damage, lose electricity, and face the many other problems the rest of the community does.

Recommendations to preserve employer-sponsored insurance

By Admin | September 18, 2017

In an opinion piece written for thehill.com, contributing columnist James Gelfand outlines his reasons to protect the employer-sponsored health insurance system.

Water Problems After Harvey

By Admin | September 13, 2017

While many Houston residents are reconstructing their homes and dealing with the obvious ramifications from Hurricane Harvey, one water-infrastructure security expert is more concerned with the remaining water.

Virtual Reality and Healthcare

By Admin | September 11, 2017

The future of healthcare puzzles everyone from patients to experts, but one thing we can probably count on is an increase in healthcare gaming.

Taking care of patients and their information

By Admin | September 06, 2017

There are currently no mechanisms in place to protect patients from stolen identities in order for others to bill fraudulently or receive care.

Like statistics? Here are over 20 about health care

By Admin | August 30, 2017

USA Today posted a list of over 20 health care numbers that relate to everything from salaries to how the US compares to other countries. Here’s a sampling:

What gives? Giving; it makes givers happy

By Admin | August 28, 2017

It looks like being good to others is good for you, as well. Using brain scans, scientists in Switzerland discovered that even small acts of generosity or charitable promises triggered brain changes that made subjects happier.

Amazon and Healthcare

By Admin | August 21, 2017

It is no secret that Amazon has hired high-profile executives with healthcare experience, fueling rumors that the company is going to somehow enter the healthcare sector.

Unlocking the mystery of how brains operate

By Admin | August 16, 2017

What makes one brain cell different from the next? Scientists are finally on the verge of figuring that out and unlocking the mysteries of how our brains actually work.

HIMSS cyber security report is turning up some curious vulnerabilities

By Admin | August 14, 2017

If it’s a machine on a network, it can be hacked. One man found that out when he went to get a cup of coffee and discovered a strange message on the coffee machine, a message he had just reported to IT from his computer.

Bipartisan Hearings on Healthcare

By Admin | August 09, 2017

The Senate Health Committee is reserving the first week in September for bipartisan hearings in order to strengthen the individual healthcare marketplace.

Value-based payment is the future

By Admin | August 07, 2017

Medical device manufacturers, the FDA, healthcare providers, and insurers want to ensure that solutions are indeed providing value to patients, but no one is sure how to collect the necessary data.

Crowdfunding sites are loaded with health care

By Admin | August 02, 2017

Crowdfunding sites were started to help people raise money for causes, whether it was taking donations for a race, trying to get some money for school, or doing something nice for someone else. But attempting to raise money for medical services quickly became a popular topic, and the trend isn’t going anywhere.

Will Amazon take on healthcare next?

By Admin | July 31, 2017

Amazon has brought on health experts into their corporate family, and that has some investors thinking they may offer pharmaceutical offerings, and more, in the future.

A Cheaper Plan with Fewer Benefits

By Admin | July 24, 2017

The proposed healthcare bill that’s dominating headlines needs 50 votes in the house to pass. As of now, it won’t get those 50 votes.

Healthcare Disagreements Continue

By Admin | July 19, 2017

The plan to repeal and replace the Obama Administration’s Affordable Care Act, AKA Obamacare, isn’t going well.

Behavioral Economics and Healthcare

By Admin | July 17, 2017

Behavioral economics is based on the principle that most people will not change their behavior when given facts. A prime example is the former governor of New Jersey John Corzine’s refusal to wear a seat belt, even though there’s countless data and evidence that proves they save lives. He was nearly killed in an automobile accident in 2007 because he wasn’t wearing his seat belt.

CBO has released its report on the Senate health bill

By Admin | July 12, 2017

Healthcare has been front and center of every news cycle for weeks, especially since Republican senators were penning their proposal behind closed doors.

A high-level look at the Senate’s healthcare bill

By Admin | July 10, 2017

The Senate released their plans for the future of healthcare to the country, ending the speculation about what will happen to taxes, Medicaid, and pre-existing conditions. Here are the facts:

How providers can prepare for new Medicare card system

By Admin | July 05, 2017

By April 2019, all Medicare cards will be replaced with new ones that use a unique identification number and will not contain a patient’s social security number.

What we know about the Senate health-care bill

By Admin | July 03, 2017

The Washington Post has done some digging and has come out with a comprehensive list of predictions concerning the Senate’s revisement of the much anticipated health care overhaul.

Remote Treatment in Texas, Finally!

By  | June 26, 2017

Texas was the only state holding out on allowing complete telehealth services, requiring patients and physicians or care providers to meet in-person before using any phone or Internet devices to diagnose and treat.

13 Senators who could impact health care

By Admin | June 21, 2017

Thirteen members of Congress have been working on a new healthcare plan, putting them at front and center of the issue. But thirteen Senators have the real power, according to political publication Roll Call.

Urgent challenge of cybersecurity in healthcare

By Admin | June 19, 2017

The Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Cybersecurity Task Force released their findings pertaining to cyber security and the healthcare industry. They are urging for a unified effort among sectors--payers, providers, medical device manufacturers, research institutions and software developers--to help stop attacks like the recent WannaCry ransomware attack which impacted dozens of hospitals.

No hand shaking here

By Admin | June 14, 2017

Can the spread of disease be curbed by not shaking hands? UCLA hospitals are going to find out. Handshakes were banned in neonatal intensive care wards at two of their hospitals in an effort to keep infections from spreading.

Breaking down the CBO’s healthcare score

By Admin | June 12, 2017

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), a nonpartisan scorekeeper, will evaluate the Republican healthcare proposal to replace the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare.

Cyber attacks are a real and constant threat

By Admin | June 07, 2017

The WannaCry cyber attack ravaged systems worldwide, and now the EternalBlue ransomware attack is also proving that many healthcare systems are far from prepared.

Future of Health Care Legislation Taking Place Behind Closed Doors

By Admin | June 05, 2017

There are no plans for committee hearings to publicly vet a new health care bill currently being written to replace and repeal the Affordable Care Act. Thirteen GOP senators have been selected to meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays in closely guarded meetings at the U.S. Capitol.

A little prevention goes a long way to prevent cyber attacks

By Admin | May 31, 2017

Hackers attacked computer systems worldwide with stolen software from the National Security Administration. Dubbed the “Wannacry” ransomware outbreak, the hackers locked healthcare personnel out of their computers by exploiting a known vulnerability in the Windows operating system.

Insurers proposing double-digit rate hikes for 2018 because of market uncertainty

By Admin | May 22, 2017

Insurance rates could skyrocket, going up as much as 60 percent in Maryland, if certain Affordable Care Act provisions go away.

Micro-Hospitals can provide care tailored to their communities’ needs

By Admin | May 17, 2017

Some areas don’t have large enough populations to support big hospitals, but the communities still need emergency and other medical care. Micro-hospitals can fill the healthcare gap.

Opinion on working with insurance companies

By Admin | May 15, 2017

Insurance companies are hesitant to negotiate with freestanding emergency rooms and urgent care centers according to Dr. Carrie de Moor, President and CEO of Frisco-based Code 3 Emergency Physicians and chairman of the American College of Emergency Physicians’ Freestanding Emergency Centers Section.

5 countries from which the US can learn about healthcare

By Admin | May 10, 2017

The Legatum Institute, a US-based think tank, reviewed several countries with successful healthcare systems. They measured each country’s performance based on basic physical and mental health, health infrastructure and preventative care.

Hospitals need to embrace their positive Yelp ratings

By Admin | May 08, 2017

Chances are, you’ve used Yelp for restaurant reviews or to assess the skills of a local plumber, but have you ever looked up a hospital? If you’re like a majority of people, you have.

Electronic Health Records are causing healthcare providers strife Healthcare IT News

By Admin | May 03, 2017

The popular opinion among doctors is that they do not want to go back to the days of paper record keeping, but they do not enjoy the electronic health record (EHR) software of the post-meaningful use world.

Healthcare reform and infrastructure improvements

By Admin | May 01, 2017

During an interview with Fox Business Network's Maria Bartiromo, President Trump hinted that healthcare reform and infrastructure changes could be a package deal moving forward.

Hackers are after medical records, and they’re easy to steal

By Admin | April 24, 2017

The healthcare industry is far behind the banking, retail, and financial sectors when it comes to securing data. And with the implementation of electronic records, more patient data is becoming available with little or no protections.

Hospitals will be under cyber attack in 2017 Healthcare IT News

By Admin | April 19, 2017

Healthcare is attractive to hackers, and experts predict that things will get far worse before they get better.

18-34 year olds want Obamacare replacement to be similar to Obamacare

By Admin | April 17, 2017

Only about 25 percent of young people, 18-34 year olds, want Obamacare repealed, 16 percent specifically wanting it to be repealed and replaced.

Telemedicine may or may not have the ability to replace in-person care

By Admin | April 12, 2017

Does telemedicine help patients more effectively than in-person care and does it save money? The findings are all over the place.

The healthcare debate is not over; lawmakers promise change is coming

By Admin | April 10, 2017

Despite the healthcare bill known as TrumpCare being pulled before a Congressional vote, House Republicans promise that a new bill will appear in its place.

D CEO interviews healthcare experts

By Admin | April 03, 2017

In other industries, the acquiring and merging of companies generally leads to more expensive products and services, and the recent trend of healthcare providers joining one another to create larger hospital systems has many worried about future costs.

Hospital - patient active observation

By Admin | March 29, 2017

It looks like patients fare better while hospitals are under inspection, reports the Joint Commission. In fact, patients are far less likely to die within 30 days of admission while the Joint Commission is present and supervising.

AMA wants doctors & patients to get involved with healthcare reform

By Admin | March 27, 2017

The American Medical Association, AMA, has launched PatientsBeforePolitics.org in order to help keep both patients and physicians informed about the upcoming changes to repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act, ACA.

Changes to Texas telehealth laws appear to be moving forward

By Admin | March 22, 2017

Texas is currently one of the last states to require that physicians and patients meet in-person before allowing any future telehealth services be allowed. However, mHealth Intelligence reports that a compromise bill is heading towards the Legislature that would eliminate this mandate.

AHC Act could cause over 24 million to lose coverage

By Admin | March 20, 2017

House Republicans have put forward a bill to replace the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare. Known as the American Health Care Act, the bill is predicted to cut the national deficit at the cost of 24 million Americans losing health care coverage.

Plans to repeal and replace ACA face opposition from both sides

By Admin | March 15, 2017

Things don’t appear to be going smoothly for the plans to repeal and replace Obamacare, AKA the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Your fitness tracker and healthcare

By Admin | March 13, 2017

Wearable fitness trackers are here to stay, and health insurers are jumping on the bandwagon.

Medical identity theft is on the rise

By Admin | March 08, 2017

The statistics are sobering: One in three health records may have been compromised in 2016. But why?

Required in-person meeting before administering telemedicine could go away

By Admin | March 06, 2017

Right now, patients and physicians in Texas must have a face-to-face meeting before any telehealth services can be used. Texas remains one of the last states in the US with such a mandate.

Electronic Health Records for better patient health

By Admin | March 01, 2017

When it comes to adopting and implementing electronic health records (EHR), the 14-hospital system of Texas Health Resources has a long history of being advanced.

Why Medical experts project a big boom for the spine care industry

By Admin | February 27, 2017

Dr. Sinicropi of the Midwest Spine & Brain Institute in Minnesota expects spine care to move to the forefront of medical care in the coming years. Here are five reasons why:

Deloitte’s 18 trends in global healthcare for 2017

By Admin | February 22, 2017

Deloitte, global network of auditors, consultants, risk management professionals, and more, have published their report of the 18 trends they see happening in healthcare for this year. Here we have provided the top five.

The ACA could include health savings accounts

By Admin | February 20, 2017

Republicans on Capitol Hill seem to be leaning towards incorporating health savings accounts (HSAs) into their Affordable Care Act (ACA) replacement plans.

Study shows that Texans react more negatively towards the ACA

By Admin | February 15, 2017

A recent study asked low-income adults about their Medicaid coverage since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Individuals in four states were polled, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Kentucky, all of which received expanded Medicaid benefits under the ACA, and Texas, which did not.

Trump's lawyer outlines his predictions for ACA replacement

By Admin | February 13, 2017

Robert Grand, an attorney specializing in the ACA with the Chicago office of Barnes & Thornburg LLP, worked on the inaugural committee for president Donald Trump as well as the executive committee of Vice President Mike Pence’s Indiana gubernatorial campaign.

Balance billing is bigger in Texas

By Admin | February 08, 2017

When a patient has been treated at an in-network facility, but an out-of-network doctor treats him, that patient will most likely find himself the financial victim of balance billing, a nationwide problem that is more prolific in the Lone Star State.

What repealing the ACA could mean for Texans, according to the CPPP

By Admin | February 06, 2017

If the Affordable Care Act, ACA, also known as Obamacare, were repealed without a replacement, Texas’ individual marketplace would be severely impacted, said Anne Dunkelberg, associate director of the Austin-based Center for Public Policy Priorities.

Doctors still banned from texting orders

By Admin | January 30, 2017

The Joint Commission and CMS continue their ban on doctors texting treatment orders, citing that texting can complicate communication and processes.

US health spending increased rapidly, here’s why

By Admin | January 25, 2017

Every year, health spending in the US grows, but the rate of that growth increased drastically between 2014 and 2015. In fact, the federal government says the country spent $3.2 trillion on health care in 2015, which is 5.8 percent more than in 2014 and averages to $9,990 per person.

DFW Hospital Council president implores for help with healthcare

By Admin | January 23, 2017

Steve Love, president of the Dallas-Fort Worth Hospital Council, sees many things happening in the future of healthcare in Texas, but he knows in order to move forward, everyone needs to do their part.

There needs to be a longer transition to MACRA, says CHIME

By  | January 11, 2017

The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services citing three major roadblocks for healthcare practitioners in comments to Andy Slavitt, head of CMS acting administrator.

Moving towards activity-based costing (ABC) with UPMC CFO

By Admin | January 09, 2017

Robert DeMichiei, CFO and executive vice president for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, has a plan to help healthcare provider organizations move towards the value-based payment model.

Price selected to be Secretary of Health and Human Services

By Admin | January 04, 2017

President-Elect Donald Trump has selected Tom Price, an orthopedic surgeon with a long congressional history of loyally promoting the interests of doctors, to be his Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Healthcare costs reach $9.9K per person, remain historically modest

By Admin | December 28, 2016

The passage of the Affordable Care Act allowed nearly 20 million Americans to obtain health care; prior to the act, they were unable to.

Americans are satisfied with their health insurance

By Admin | December 21, 2016

According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index, there was a 4.3 percent increase in positive consumer sentiment when it came to their health insurance providers. In fact, all major health insurance providers experienced some sort of uptick with their customers’ overall satisfaction.

It’s too soon to panic over the future of the ACA

By Admin | December 19, 2016

Healthcare in the US, not just the Affordable Care Act, is complicated. MACRA, for example, is a 300-page document. CMS released their implementation plan for MACRA, and that document is 1,000 pages.

AMA continues to advocate for increased access to healthcare.

By Admin | December 14, 2016

Dr. Andrea Gurman, president of the American Medical Association, says that policy makers have the opportunity to reduce physician burdens, allowing them more time to spend with patients while lowering costs.

Healthcare could benefit from borrowing data analysis from gambling

By Admin | December 05, 2016

In the gambling world, it’s called Monte Carlo, a concept that helps determine outcomes when there are variables to consider.

Cybersecurity is a problem

By Admin | November 28, 2016

The Internet was originally an insecure network designed to allow scientists to collaborate, not to be the backbone of our economy, says former NSA senior counsel Joel Brenner.

CMS to give an additional $140 million to primary care doctors in 2017

By Admin | November 23, 2016

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services are looking to monetize patient outcomes instead of patient volume, and to incentivize that, they’re focusing on primary care physicians.

Health records are headed to the cloud.

By Admin | November 21, 2016

Add healthcare to the list of industries who are finding comfort and convenience in cloud-based data sharing.

Technology and data analysis will reshape healthcare.

By Admin | November 14, 2016

How many people do you know who wear some sort of data tracker on their wrist? And how many people track their diets or sleep on their smart phones?

Know these six things about MACRA before transitioning.

By Admin | November 09, 2016

MACRA’s merit-based, incentive payment system will have an effect on any physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and certified registered nurse anesthetists who bill over $30,000 a year and provide care to a minimum of 100 patients under traditional fee-for-service Medicare.

Preventing phishing and cybercrime in healthcare

By Admin | November 07, 2016

“Oftentimes end users think technology protects them from more than it really does,” said Mark Parkulo, MD, of the Mayo Clinic. “‘The institution wouldn’t let these things come through, right?’ When you tell them there is no way to block everything, they become more aware of the importance of monitoring it.”

Transition to MACRA shouldn’t happen overnight.

By Admin | November 02, 2016

Andy Slavitt, the acting administrator of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), advised health providers to be the pace cars for transition to care under MACRA.

Did a contest produce an actual easy-to-understand medical bill design?

By Admin | October 31, 2016

The Department of Human Health and Services put out a challenge: design a medical bill that actually makes sense to consumers.

How to improve consumer engagement via Medicaid ACOs

By Admin | October 26, 2016

In order to provide coordinated, person-centered care, it is necessary for accountable care organizations (ACOs) to engage consumers and patients on a more regular basis.

Renewing 1115 Transformation Waiver

By Admin | October 19, 2016

Rather than pursuing Medicaid expansion, the Texas State Health Committee has decided to prioritize the renewal of the 1115 Transformation Waiver, which was originally set to expire.

Augmented & virtual reality technology can have an impact on healthcare

By Admin | October 17, 2016

Patient therapy and medical training are entering the popular worlds of augmented and virtual reality.

The ACA and actuarial science conflict with one another.

By Admin | October 12, 2016

The largest health insurance companies are backing out of markets, changing their plans, and raising their costs at unprecedented rates, yet are still losing money. And it may not be their faults, according to an op-ed piece by D Magazine.

Insights about research and the biggest issue facing healthcare today

By Admin | October 10, 2016

Dr. William C. Watters III is currently an orthopedic physician with Houston Methodist Hospital. With a career over 20 years old, he has served as president of the North American Spine Society, was a founding member and former chair of the NASS evidence-based guidelines committee, and was a founding member and former chair of the registry development committee.

A Neurosurgeon’s Take on the Evolving Healthcare Landscape

By Admin | October 05, 2016

Becker’s Spine Review interviewed Dr. Thomas Scully, a neurosurgeon with Northwest NeuroSpecialists in Tucson, AZ, about the evolution of surgery and how value-based care will impact patients in the future.

18 Things You Should Know About the Millennial Patient

By Admin | October 03, 2016

Meet the millennial patient, who approaches healthcare very differently from his or her parents. Millennials are those born generally between 1982 and 2000 and are now the largest generation.

CMS will give providers flexibility on MACRA requirements

By Admin | September 30, 2016

Originally slated to begin January 1, 2017, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) will now allow providers to meet requirements at a pace of their choosing.

Americans aren’t accessing the online health records they claim to want.

By Admin | September 28, 2016

According to a survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, an increasing number of Americans would like to have online access of their health records.

HIPAA regulations cannot promise patient data is safe.

By Admin | September 26, 2016

The FBI plans to begin a public conversation about electronic privacy, said FBI Director James Comey.

Hospitals around the country are trying an at-home approach to health care.

By Admin | September 21, 2016

“The hospital can be a very difficult and dangerous environment for old and frail people,” says Bruce Leff, director of the Center for Transformative Geriatric Research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Survey reveals access to health issues that telemedicine could solve.

By Admin | September 19, 2016

The Texas Association of Business (TAB) released two surveys, one to businesses offering health plans and one to the general public, asking how and why people sought care, where they went, and if they would desire calling or video conferencing with their physicians.

Deep Brain Stimulation

By Admin | September 16, 2016

Deep Brain Stimulation is an advanced neuromodulatory therapy that is utilized to restore function in patients with many neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, Essential and other forms of Tremor, Dystonia and patients with Neuropsychiatric Diseases. The Yale Neuromodulatory Center, led by Dr. Jason Gerrard, MD PhD, is the premier DBS center in Connecticut and one of the most active DBS centers in the NorthEast.

Health spending trends from June 2016

By Admin | September 14, 2016

The Altarum Institute's Center for Sustainable Health Spending released a report titled “Health Sector Economic Indicators” which highlights eight trends in the sector. All findings are from June 2016.

Aetna plans to remove itself from AHA

By Admin | September 12, 2016

In a letter obtained by the Huffington Post, Aetna CEO Mark Bertolini informs the Department of Justice that if the DOJ sues to block Aetna’s planned merger with Humana, then Aetna would begin to pull out of health insurance exchanges.

Do evaluation metrics tell the entire story when rating spine surgeons?

By Admin | September 07, 2016

If you’re looking for a great restaurant, you may go to Yelp and read customer ratings. This model works wonders for food, hotels, and businesses, but the same model is being adopted to evaluate doctors and surgeons, and many are wondering if it tells the entire story.

Social Media’s Impact on the Healthcare Space

By Admin | August 31, 2016

Facebook, Twitter, and the other forms of social media have impacted how we obtain news, share information, and learn about the world around us. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that it has also changed the way patients and practitioners interact, learn about health care, and even behave.

The Conversation to Taper Healthcare Costs

By Admin | August 29, 2016

In July of 2016, a four-person panel was held at the D Magazine offices to discuss the necessary steps--and risks--companies and payers need to take in order to minimize healthcare costs.

CMS May Be Open to MACRA Alternatives

By Admin | August 24, 2016

Independent practices have been expressing concern over MACRA, specifically that they will not be able to comply with the new laws.

Ransomware and Personal Health Information

By Admin | August 22, 2016

With the increased usage of digital health records, the threat of hacking increases. Ransomware is a threat which limits a user’s ability to access information until a ransom is paid. It encrypts data, rendering records unreadable by healthcare providers.

Six things to know about healthcare spending

By Admin | August 17, 2016

Becker’s ASC Review compiled a list of six things to watch out for in regards to healthcare spending from 2015 through 2025.

MACRA pushed back

By Admin | August 08, 2016

The federal government is considering delaying MACRA because independent practices argue they will not be able to complete the necessary additional paperwork without impacting patients or joining larger hospital groups.

North Texas Independents come together to get value based contracting.

By Admin | August 03, 2016

Over 1,300 independent primary care doctors and specialists have come together as part of a new clinically integrated network, TXCIN, in order to obtain value based contracts from large insurance companies, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and Cigna.

Office of Inspector General conducts historic Medicare fraud sweep.

By Admin | August 01, 2016

In the largest sweep in seven year history of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, authorities served 61 warrants to healthcare practitioners who stand accused of bilking Medicare and Medicaid for over $900 million.

Bundled payments for spine and orthopedics coming swiftly.

By Admin | July 27, 2016

Whether you’re ready or not, you may start seeing bundled payments for spine and orthopedics sooner rather than later. There remain some definite challenges, which may not be completely addressed before the rollout, so practices are doing what they can to prepare.

House Republicans propose replacing the ACA with tax credits.

By Admin | July 25, 2016

In the heated political battle of ridding the U.S. of the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare, Republicans in the House have introduced a new idea they’re calling a healthcare backpack. The idea is that individuals could use government-alloted tax credits in order to purchase the health insurance they want.

Balance billing strategy in the works for Texas healthcare.

By Admin | July 18, 2016

Insurance providers are shrinking their networks, and independent practices are claiming it makes them unable to compete in a market where they have no share.

Cigna is getting into the physician services business.

By Admin | July 13, 2016

Cigna, known to be one of the main health insurance companies, is combining personnel from its HealthSpring and Qualcare Alliance Networks to form a new company called CareAlliance, LLC. The purpose is to provide advisory and management services, technology infrastructure, and data analytics to assist providers in tracking patient outcomes.

BCBS of Texas Requests Higher Obamacare Rates

By Admin | July 11, 2016

Richardson-based Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas has reported losses of $592 million in 2015, and $416 million in 2014. Its parent company, Health Care Services Corporation out of Chicago, Illinois, has also reported losing over $2 billion on “Obamacare” plans in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Illinois, and Montana.

The Fifth Most Profitable Hospital in the U.S. Sits in Dallas

By Admin | July 06, 2016

A comprehensive study performed by two researchers from Johns Hopkins University pulled data from 3,000 different hospitals: 59 percent nonprofit, 25 percent for-profit, 16 percent public. They found that on average, hospitals marked up their services $5.40 for every dollar in patient care costs incurred. Medical City charged $7.70 for every dollar.

Lack of Hospital Merger Regulations is Hurting Patients

By Admin | July 05, 2016

In order to survive, smaller hospitals sometimes merge with larger chains. This gives the small hospitals the ability to negotiate with insurance companies and share in cost savings while cutting overlapping services. However, when hospitals look out for their own interests, patient health can get put last.

New payment models intend to help practices, but may presently hinder care

By Admin | June 29, 2016

A joint study conducted by the RAND Corporation and the American Medical Association reports that the diversity of new healthcare payment models and increasing amounts of data are overwhelming physician practices.

Satisfied physicians lead to better patient care, according to study.

By Admin | June 27, 2016

If the goal is happy patients, then doctors need to be taken care of first. A study conducted by the American Medical Association in conjunction with RAND Health reports a few of the barriers between physicians and job satisfaction, including complications with electronic health records, payers, and income stability.

Surgeon Affiliations Have Impact on Surgeries

By Admin | June 22, 2016

Is there a financial incentive for surgeons to perform spinal fusions? Yes, according to a study conducted by Senate Finance Committee Republicans. Findings show that when doctors have ownership interests with medical-device makers, surgeons generally earn commissions with sales. These same surgeons tend to perform excessive or unnecessary operations in order to earn additional income from commissions.

Who knows spine surgery better than the people performing the surgeries?

By Admin | June 20, 2016

In their weekly series of questions, Ask Spine Surgeons, Becker’s Spine Review asks about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. This time, they ask about the biggest changes surgeons have witnessed over their careers. Four surgeons weighed in.

Saying, “I’m sorry,” and Other Things That Can Impact Malpractice Claims

By Admin | June 17, 2016

The New England Journal of Medicine conducted a study to find out which physician behaviors lead to malpractice claims. Results aren’t surprising; patients like to be treated like people and respected. The five key findings are:

Not happy with the hospital? Get your money back.

By Admin | June 15, 2016

Geisinger Health System of Danville, PA, has enacted their ProvenExperience program, which sounds a bit crazy, even though it was the brainchild of a psychiatrist. Essentially, patients are asked to rate their experiences, list positives and negatives, and request some or all of their co-payment back--up to $2,000--if they feel reparations are necessary. The craziest part? The hospital will always repay the amount, no questions asked.

Both Surgeons and Patients Benefit from IONM

By Admin | June 13, 2016

Before intraoperative neuromonitoring existed, surgeons could do one of two things to detect neurological deficits in their patients. One, they could have anesthesiologists slowly wake up patients enough to respond to stimuli during surgery. Or two, they could just complete the surgery and test each patient once they naturally woke up.

Evaluating Pedicle Screw Misplacement

By Admin | June 09, 2016

A review of patient charts, x-rays, and CT scans evaluated the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in order to gauge the relationship of screw misplacement with morbidity.

Are Health Care Providers Helping to Decrease Unnecessary Surgeries?

By Admin | June 09, 2016

Lower back pain seems to be getting worse and worse for adults in the United States. It is the fifth most common reason for adults to visit the doctor, as well as their most frequently reported discomfort. This correlates with the documented rise of lumbar fusion and other back surgeries. In fact, between the years of 1993 and 2001, total lumbar fusions increased 356%.

Is Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Always Necessary?

By Admin | June 08, 2016

When it comes to the complexities of the human spine and all of the delicate parts it protects, most surgeons side with the use of IONM for invasive procedures, like correcting deformities and removing tumors. Many of those same surgeons would also say that neuromonitorning is unnecessary for simple, by-the-book procedures, like microdiscectomies or laminectomies. However, the pressure to always monitor no matter the surgery is growing, especially when it comes to the risk of malpractice lawsuits.

The Emerging Payment Model in Spine Care

By Admin | June 01, 2016

It appears that providers open to adopting bundled payments are able to increase their patient volumes from payers seeking cost-effective care, according to a survey reported in Spine Journal.

Four Spine Reimbursement Insights

By Admin | May 25, 2016

A study published in Spine Journal (February 2016 - Volume 41 - Issue 4 - p 344–352) concludes that providers can increase patient volumes from payers by adopting bundled payments. Becker’s Spine Review lists their four conclusions from the study taken from interviews with 24 stakeholders across 18 organizations. Collectively, these organizations perform around 12,000 inpatient spine surgeries each year.

Who Really Makes the Decision to Use or Not to Use IONM?

By Admin | May 16, 2016

When it comes to spine surgery and neuromonitoring, there is no medical standard of care to determine if IONM should or should not be used.

Physician-Owned Distributorships Damage Health Care

By Admin | May 13, 2016

Physician-Owned Distributorships (PODs) lead to unnecessary and overly complicated procedures, often use illegal business practices, and are finding ways to circumvent anti-kickback laws.

Delays & Preauthorization Coverage Denials can Impact Practices

By Admin | May 10, 2016

"Further, respondents indicated surgery preauthorization does not lead to appropriate reimbursement in approximately one-third of the cases,” states a study conducted by the International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery.

The Push to Change the Stark Law

By Admin | March 16, 2016

A new ­performance-based payment model, created to encourage hospitals and physicians to collaborate, may violate the Stark Law,

HHS meets 2016 goal of shifting Medicare payments to alternative models

By Admin | March 16, 2016

Health and Human Services (HHS) has made a move that will help initiate a better healthcare delivery system

Cervical Total Disc Replacement Versus Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

By Admin | March 09, 2016

Researchers conducted a five-year study to determine whether cervical total disc replacement (TDR) carries less risk

Various Courses of Action for Spinal Care

By Admin | March 09, 2016

When it comes to back pain, a patient can expect four different courses of action if he sees four different physicians.

Dallas Pharmacy Accused of Paying Illegal Kickbacks to Physicians

By Admin | March 02, 2016

On February 5, 2016, the Dallas Morning News reported that federal investigators were examining a local pharmacy in potential violation of anti-kickback laws.

New Data Impacts the Standard of Spine Care

By Admin | March 02, 2016

Alexander Vaccaro, MD, and Charles Fisher, MD, examined six areas of spinal intervention to determine if clinical norms were the best course of action.

Forest Park Medical Center declares bankruptcy, slated for sale.

By  | March 02, 2016

The Forest Park Medical Center with multiple campuses around the Dallas/Fort Worth area filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy near the end of 2015.

IONM reduces neurological risks.

By  | February 26, 2016

Neuromonitoring is a valuable tool that helps keep patients safe, and the numbers back up that claim.

Why Surgeon Documentation is Important

By Admin | February 26, 2016

A surgeon’s job doesn’t end once he or she leaves the operating room. When it comes to the health of both patients and the practice, documentation plays a key role in improving healthcare.

House Bill 2978 - Texas Neurodiagnostic Technologists Bill

By Admin | February 26, 2016

Representative Greg Bonnen, a neurosurgeon, introduced House Bill 2978 on behalf of the Texas Neurodiagnostic Society.

Three Techniques to Preserve Somatosensory Function

By Admin | February 26, 2016

Dr. Richard Vogel, neuroscientist and board-certified neurophysiologist, wrote an informative article about dorsal column mapping intramedullary spinal cord tumor surgery.

BCBS of Texas Drops Preferred Provider Organization Plans

By  | February 26, 2016

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas replaced their Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans in the Affordable Care Act's federal exchange and the private individual market with Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans.

Accomplishments and Mistakes Made by Physicians in 2015

By Admin | February 26, 2016

Medscape, part of WebMD Health Professional Network, has listed the best and worst physicians of 2015.

Co-owned hospitals in North Texas - Announced

By  | February 26, 2016

Dallas-based organizations Baylor Scott & White Health and Tenet Healthcare plan to co-own five hospitals in the North Texas region.

The Future of Health with Telehealth

By  | February 15, 2016

With new and emerging technologies come new ways for patients and doctors to interact. Telehealth includes virtual visits, remote patient monitoring, mobile health applications, and online patient education. It has the ability to revolutionize healthcare as we know it.

Surgical monitoring firms are under scrutiny.

By Admin | December 21, 2015

The Austin American Statesman posted an article in November 2015 about how some intraoperative neuromonitoring companies are making backdoor deals with hospitals and surgeons in order to inflate their profits at the expense of insurance companies.

Brain changes may be linked to unexplained motor symptoms

By Admin | June 21, 1987

MINNEAPOLIS - A new study finds that people who have movement problems, symptoms that cannot be explained by an underlying disease, may have chemical changes in specific areas of the brain. The study is published in the June 5, 2019, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. These symptoms, which include tremors, muscle contractions or problems with walking, are called functional or psychogenic motor symptoms.

11-25-2019

By Admin | March 19, 2024

Federal officials are expanding their ability to revoke or deny clinicians' participation in Medicare, claiming new authority to bar those who have harmed patients. Starting January 1, 2020, the giant federal health program will have new power to bar clinicians' participation if agency officials can cite potential harm to patients based on specific incidents, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) said.

Spine surgeon leader to know: Dr. Ayodele Buraimoh of The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

By  | March 19, 2024

Ayodele Buraimoh, MD, is a spine surgeon with Bethesda, Md.-based The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. Dr. Buraimoh specializes in the treatment of degenerative spinal conditions as well as spinal trauma, deformity and tumors. He has expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery and traditional open techniques.

Commentary: Costs and Their Predictors in Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

By Admin | March 19, 2024

This paper1 explores the vast Truven MarketScan database (IBM, Armonk, New York) to compare costs associated with transsphenoidal microsurgical and transsphenoidal endoscopic approaches, using data derived from healthcare claims to multiple health plans and employers in 2010 to 2014.