Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast

In this episode, Cory Calendine, MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon at the Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee, joins the podcast to discuss the growing role of personalization in surgery and the adoption of AI in clinical practice. He shares insights on building and scaling individual practices through patient education online, as well as the broader impact of GLP-1 medications on patient health and orthopedic outcomes.

In this episode, Leo Spector, MD, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon and CEO of OrthoCarolina, joins the podcast to discuss major industry shifts from inpatient to outpatient surgery. He shares how expanding access to care, lowering costs, and improving outcomes are shaping strategy, and offers his perspective on what success will look like for healthcare organizations in the future.

In this episode, Dr. Bradley Lamm, DPM, Director of the Foot and Ankle Deformity Center and Director of the Foot and Ankle Deformity Correction Fellowship at the Paley Institute, joins the podcast to discuss groundbreaking advancements in foot and ankle surgery. He highlights the world's first patient-specific 3D-printed procedure, explores MedCad treatment options, and shares how these innovations are driving more advanced healing and improved patient outcomes.

In this episode, Wake Radiology's President and Managing Partner Brent Townsend, MD and COO Parul Galloway discuss practical strategies to help mitigate patient access, workforce and other common challenges to successfully scale outpatient imaging. Together with Jason Weshler, VP of Outpatient Solutions at Siemens Healthineers, they explore how digitalization and AI-based tools, operational innovations, and advocacy efforts are shaping the future of patient-centered radiology care.This episode is sponsored by Siemens Healthineers.

In this episode, Samir Mehta, MD, Chief of Orthopaedic Trauma & Fracture Service and Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania, joins the podcast to discuss the evolution of trauma care and how machine learning and AI are shaping the future of the field. He also shares practical advice for emerging leaders looking to grow and lead in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

In this episode, Dr. James Ryaby, PhD, Principal Scientific Advisor at Orthofix, shares insights from more than 30 years at the forefront of bone healing innovation. He discusses the science behind PEMF and ultrasound therapies, the clinical trials that validated these technologies, and where the future of regenerative bone healing may be headed.This episode is sponsored by Orthofix.

In this episode, Morgan P. Lorio, MD, FACS, Past President, International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery (ISASS), discusses the growing role of AI in spine care and its impact on clinical decision-making, policy, and medical knowledge. He highlights the importance of physician-led governance to ensure technology enhances rather than erodes critical thinking and patient-centered care.

In this episode, Ravi K. Bashyal, MD, Vice Chairman of Patient and Provider Experience at Endeavor Health and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, shares how patient centered culture, standardized pathways, and surgical specialization have built the busiest orthopedic hospital in Illinois. He discusses outpatient joint replacement, system wide growth, and why humility and human connection remain at the core of high performance care.

In this episode, Dr. Osamah Choudhry, Co Founder and CEO of Medivis and neurosurgeon at NYU Langone Health, discusses the evolving role of artificial intelligence and augmented reality in spine and cranial surgery. He shares insights on FDA clearances, distribution strategy, and how next generation navigation technology is improving precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Mauricio Avila, Assistant Professor and Director of the Neurosurgery Spine program at Saint Louis University and SSM Health, shares how he is uniting neurosurgery and orthopedic spine teams while expanding endoscopic and robotic capabilities. He discusses the value of minimally invasive care, the promise of next generation robotics software, and the workforce and reimbursement challenges shaping spine surgery today.

In this episode, Kai Lewandrowski, MD and Morgan Lorio, MD, FACS explore how disposable HD endoscopy, predictable per case economics, and CMS rural transformation efforts can make spine surgery more viable in low volume settings while preserving local access and sustaining community based practices.

In this episode, Dr. Christian Péan, CEO and Co Founder of Revel Ai Health and practicing orthopedic trauma surgeon at Duke University School of Medicine, discusses how AI is redefining surgical readiness in ambulatory surgery centers. He explores scalable use cases in patient engagement, quality reporting, interoperability, and how ASC leaders can prepare their data, workflows, and culture for safe AI adoption. This episode is sponsored by Revel Ai.

In this episode, Matthew J. Dietz, MD, FAOA, Chair of Orthopaedics at the West Virginia University School of Medicine and WVU Medicine, discusses leading rapid departmental growth, advancing research in prosthetic joint infection, and expanding reliable orthopedic care across rural communities.

In this episode, Shaleen Vira, MD, MBA, Chief of Orthopaedic Spine Surgery at Banner University Medical Center and author of Spine and Strategy, discusses scaling spine services in a high growth market while taking a disciplined approach to robotics and AI adoption. He shares why resilience, surgeon skill preservation, and thoughtful capital allocation matter more than hype when evaluating new technology.

In this episode, Dr. William Kemp, a board-certified spine neurosurgeon in Richmond, Virginia, discusses the latest in motion preservation, minimally invasive surgery, and regenerative medicine. He shares insights on optimizing patient outcomes, navigating insurance and AI challenges, and strategies for growth in spine care over the next two years.

In this episode, Franco E. Vigna, MD, MPH, FAAOS, minimally invasive spine surgeon specializing in disc replacement, decompression, and motion preservation, shares his journey into spine surgery and the innovations shaping care today. He discusses biologics, reimbursement pressures, practice growth, and how nutrition informed recovery and regenerative strategies are improving outcomes for spine patients.

In this episode, Dr. Sylvester Youlo, Orthopedic Surgeon at Phelps Health, shares how shifting CMS rules and the move toward outpatient care are reshaping surgical practice in rural health systems. He discusses Phelps Health's clinical documentation initiative and why strong documentation is critical for patient care, reimbursement, and the future of healthcare delivery.

In this episode, Dr. Ramin Rak, Chief of Neurosurgery at St. Catherine of Siena Hospital and founder of iMind Brain Food & Lifestyle, discusses improving patient outcomes with minimally invasive spine and brain surgeries, enhancing community access to care, and promoting brain health through nutrition and lifestyle.

In this episode, Robert C. Rhoad, MD, Partner at OrthoCincy Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Hand, Wrist & Elbow Orthopaedic Surgery, shares how orthopedic care is shifting to outpatient, ASC, and office based settings. He discusses staying independent, expanding walk in and in office procedures, and the collaborations helping physician led groups innovate while preserving autonomy.

In this episode, Allison Roditi, Vice President of Orthopedics at Catholic Health, shares how the system is unifying employed and independent physicians, preparing for rapid outpatient growth, and navigating CMS policy changes. She discusses regional strategy, standardizing care and education, and building resilient orthopedic service lines centered on access, quality, and patient experience.

In this episode, Michael Meneghini, MD, founder and CEO of Indiana Orthopedic Institute and Chief Market Development Officer at Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company, shares how orthopedic practices can improve efficiency by reducing administrative waste, leveraging AI, and aligning clinical workflows with financial sustainability. He also discusses collective physician autonomy, reimbursement pressures, and growth strategies centered on patient experience and value based care.

In this episode, Frank A. Cordasco, MD, MS, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and Attending Surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery, joins the Becker's Spine and Orthopedics Podcast to discuss how AI, virtual care, and remote monitoring are reshaping orthopedic practice. He also shares insights on emerging innovations in sports medicine, wearable technology, and the evolving role of biologics in patient care.

In this episode, Rory KJ Murphy, MD, neurosurgical, orthopedic, and minimally invasive spine surgeon at Barrow Neurological Institute, discusses evolving debates around multilevel cervical disc replacement versus fusion, emerging research in spinal cord injury care, and the growing role of neuroprosthetics.

In this episode, Alan H. Daniels, MD, Professor of Orthopaedics and Chief of Spine Surgery at The Miriam Hospital and Rhode Island Hospital, discusses balancing private practice autonomy with academic medicine, navigating reimbursement pressures, and growing complex spine programs. He also shares insights on innovations in spinal deformity care, including data driven decision making, specialized teams, and alignment focused technologies.

In this episode, Dr. Morgan Lorio shares why declining reimbursement, policy driven efficiency measures, and consolidation are reshaping spine surgery and threatening physician autonomy. He discusses his analysis The Price of Silence, the impact on surgeons and patients, and what meaningful reform must address next.

In this episode, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, a board certified spinal and orthopedic surgeon based in New York City, discusses common misconceptions about spine surgery, advances in minimally invasive and robotic techniques, and how technology is improving outcomes.

In this episode, Roger Hartl, MD, Hansen-MacDonald Professor of Neurological Surgery, Director of Neurosurgery Spine at Weill Cornell Medicine, and Neurosurgical Director of Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, shares key trends shaping spine care, including AI, biologics, minimally invasive surgery, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and patient communication.

In this episode, Alexander Vaccaro, MD, PhD, MBA, President of Rothman Orthopaedics, joins the podcast to discuss how agentic AI is making spine surgery safer and more precise. He shares his priorities heading into 2026, including supporting professional and organic growth, expanding geographically, and navigating the evolving landscape of medical malpractice while continuing to advance high-quality spine care.

In this episode, Daniel Goldberg, SVP of Sales and Growth at United Musculoskeletal Partners, shares how reducing friction across the patient journey and improving access can accelerate new patient growth. He also discusses the growing role of AI, market specific strategies, and measuring marketing ROI to support sustainable practice expansion.

In this episode, Rachel Bratescu, MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon and member of the GW Spine and Pain Center at George Washington University Hospital, discusses her goals for expanding endoscopic spine surgery and building a comprehensive, multidisciplinary spine center. She also shares perspectives on emerging spine technologies, mentorship, and navigating payer challenges while improving patient outcomes.

In this episode, Xiaofei Zhou, MD - Associate Program Director, Neurosurgery, Section Chief of Neurosurgery, Southwest General Hospital, Director of Endoscopic Spine Surgery, discusses how surgical innovation should be guided by patient outcomes and real data, not just flashy trends. They also explore the early role of AI in spine surgery, plus the financial forces shaping care including insurance, spine coding, bundled models and the need for broader systems and medical training education. 

In this episode, Dr. Aaron Chamberlain, orthopedic surgeon and Senior Medical Director for the Musculoskeletal Clinical Program at Intermountain Health, discusses the evolution of shoulder surgery and how the Intact subscapularis sparing technique is reshaping anatomic shoulder arthroplasty and patient recovery.This episode is sponsored by DePuy Synthes.

In this episode, Dr. Aaron Chamberlain, orthopedic surgeon and Senior Medical Director for the Musculoskeletal Clinical Program at Intermountain Health, discusses the evolution of shoulder and elbow surgery, the rapid shift to ASC settings, and how innovation and patient expectations are reshaping orthopedic care.This episode is sponsored by DePuy Synthes.

In this episode, Brandon P. Hirsch, MD, FAAOS, Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon at DISC Sports and Spine Center, discusses the expanding role of telemedicine, key policy changes shaping patient access, and emerging disruptors such as endoscopic techniques and digital engagement. He also shares his perspective on national healthcare reform and its direct impact on spine care.

In this episode, Anthony J. Tortolani, MD, FACS, FACC, Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeon and Professor Emeritus of Clinical Cardiothoracic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, discusses the realities of declining profit margins and how leaders are balancing financial pressures with clinical excellence. He explores practical applications of AI in clinical medicine, including improvements in efficiency and less invasive surgical approaches, and shares why aligning strategic vision with day-to-day tactical planning is essential for long-term success in cardiovascular care.

In this episode, Molly Van Oordt, Director of Specialty Account Management at NextGen Healthcare, discusses how orthopedic and MSK practices are leveraging automation, mobile tools, and AI to address staffing shortages, reduce administrative burden, and improve patient access as demand continues to rise heading into 2026.This episode was sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.

In this episode, Michael Verdon, DO, FACOS, Neurological Spine Surgeon at Transcendent Care, Inc., discusses the challenge of delivering the same high level of spine care with fewer resources and the expanding clinical applications of AI. He highlights where he expects the most meaningful growth in the next 1–2 years, including efforts to standardize patient care, and explains how technologies traditionally used in the operating room are increasingly migrating into the clinic to improve efficiency and outcomes.

This episode recorded live at Becker's 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Michael Redler, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Connecticut Orthopaedics. Dr. Redler discusses trends driving ASC growth, the role of advanced technology and AI in improving patient care and efficiency, and the benefits of collaboration between ASCs and health systems.

This episode recorded live at Becker's 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Tara Good-Young, MSHA, CASC, CEO, PDI Surgery Center. Tara discusses trends driving ASC growth, strategies for leveraging AI and technology to improve efficiency and patient experience, and the importance of collaboration with vendors and providers to optimize operations and sustainability.

This episode recorded live at Becker's 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Brenda Fernández, MBA, Chief Financial Officer, Puerto Rico ASC Holding. Brenda discusses strategies for financial stewardship, leveraging technology and AI to optimize ASC operations, and opportunities for collaboration and growth in the outpatient surgery space.

This episode recorded live at Becker's 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Nikhil Shetty, Chief Operating Officer, Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists. Dr. Shetty shares how independent ASCs are leveraging technology, lean operations, and price transparency to deliver faster, safer, and more patient-centered care while maintaining flexibility and efficiency in a growing outpatient surgery market.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Ramis Gheith, Chief Medical Officer, DxTx Pain and Spine. Dr. Gheith shares how physician-owned ASCs are reshaping care delivery, highlights the transformative role of AI in spinal therapies and informed consent, and emphasizes the power of mission-driven culture in attracting top healthcare talent.