HSS Presents

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Kyle Kunze, chief orthopedic surgery resident at Hospital for Special Surgery, sits down with Dr. Ayoosh Pareek, orthopedic surgeon and Medical Director of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health at HSS. Together, they explore the evolving role of AI in musculoskeletal care—from automating clinical workflows to enhancing diagnostic capabilities—and discuss how physicians are uniquely positioned to guide ethical and effective AI integration into patient care. The conversation spans current applications such as ambient scribe technology, predictive analytics, and AI-driven patient triage, as well as long-term possibilities like agentic AI and robotics. Drs. Kunze and Pareek also examine challenges around trust, explainability, and research integrity, offering insights into how clinicians and data scientists can collaborate to ensure AI tools are both safe and impactful. This episode previews the upcoming special edition of HSS Journal, guest edited by Dr. Kunze, focused on artificial intelligence and digital health in orthopedic practice.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Samuel A. Taylor, M.D., a sports medicine and shoulder surgery specialist at HSS, hosts an in‐depth discussion on long head of biceps tendon injuries with his esteemed colleagues—mentor Dr. Stephen J. O'Brien, MD, MBA, Dr. James "Beamer" Carr II, and Dr. Sri Pinnamaneni, M.D. The panel delves into the complexities of diagnosing and managing pathology within the biceps–labrum complex. They share personal anecdotes and historical insights that trace the evolution of treatment. Emphasizing that no imaging study can replace a thorough physical exam, the experts detail essential maneuvers and discuss the utility of ultrasound-guided diagnostic injections to pinpoint the true pain generator. With lively debate over whether to be a “biceps lover” or a “biceps killer,” this conversation offers valuable clinical pearls and practical strategies for shoulder surgeons navigating one of the most nuanced areas in sports medicine.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Austin Kaidi hosts an insightful conversation with Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi and Dr. Peter Derman on the evolving role of endoscopy in spine surgery. The discussion explores the advantages and limitations of uniportal and biportal techniques, touching on learning curves, radiation exposure, and cost-effectiveness. Dr. Derman makes the case for endoscopy as a transformative tool for select pathologies, while Dr. Qureshi reflects on its current limitations and potential for future integration with navigation and robotics. Whether skeptic or advocate, listeners will gain a nuanced perspective on whether endoscopic spine surgery is a fleeting trend or a glimpse into the future.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter K. Sculco, MD sits down with his colleague Dr. Gwo-Chin Lee, MD, to explore rapid recovery protocols for revision arthroplasty. They compare the well-established, outpatient-focused pathways used in primary joint replacement with the unique challenges of revision surgery—procedures that are longer, more complex, and less predictable. The discussion covers how preoperative optimization and intraoperative techniques must be tailored for revision patients, who often require a more cautious postoperative strategy. They also delve into discharge planning, noting that only a minority of revision patients are ready to go home within 24 hours, and share insights on postoperative care, including protocols for early mobilization, soft tissue healing with temporary knee immobilizers, and the selective use of rescue steroids. Tune in to learn how evolving rapid recovery strategies are being adapted to meet the needs of revision joint replacement patients while maintaining optimal outcomes.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter Sculco is joined by his father, Dr. Thomas Sculco—a renowned expert in joint replacement and director of the Complex Joint Reconstruction Center at HSS—to discuss the evolving role of cones in revision knee arthroplasty. They review how bone loss was managed prior to the advent of cones, the resurgence of impaction grafting, and the shift from hybrid to fully cemented stems for improved outcomes. Dr. Thomas Sculco shares his philosophy on the appropriate use of cones, cautioning against overuse due to cost and potential for unnecessary bone removal. The conversation also addresses complex re-revision scenarios and challenges with cone fixation in sclerotic bone. Blending decades of surgical expertise with insights on innovation, cost-effectiveness, and patient-centered care, this episode offers a thoughtful look at current trends in revision arthroplasty. To learn more about The Stavros Niarchos Complex Joint Reconstruction Center at HSS, visit our HSS webpage and our X account.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Farah Musharbash, a spine surgery fellow at HSS, speaks with his mentors, Dr. Han Jo Kim and Dr. Francis Lovecchio, both expert spine surgeons specializing in complex spinal deformity correction. They discuss the evolution of spinal deformity surgery, advancements in surgical techniques, and the importance of preoperative optimization and postoperative recovery pathways. Their conversation highlights the role of high-volume centers, multidisciplinary collaboration, and cutting-edge research in improving patient outcomes. Tune in for insights into the current state of the art in complex spine surgery and the future direction of the field.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jesse Charnoff, an attending physiatrist at HSS specializing in musculoskeletal sports and spine conditions, joins Anil Nandkumar, an advanced clinician and board-certified physical therapist at HSS, to discuss treating pickleball athletes. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, they explore the most common injuries seen in pickleball players, including overuse injuries, Achilles ruptures, and tennis elbow. They emphasize the importance of training for pickleball rather than just playing the sport, highlighting strength training, dynamic warm-ups, and proper equipment selection as key preventive measures. Additionally, they discuss treatment options such as physical therapy, PRP injections, and shockwave therapy, and how medical professionals can help athletes safely return to play. With insights from their experience covering Major League Pickleball events, they provide a comprehensive look at keeping players healthy while enjoying the game.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Joshua Bram, a current orthopedic surgery resident at HSS, speaks with Dr. Michael Ast, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in rapid recovery, short-stay, and outpatient joint replacement surgery. As part of the Young Physician Series, they explore different practice models and the process of finding the right first job. Their conversation covers key considerations for young surgeons, including private practice versus hospital employment, the evolving landscape of orthopedic practice, and strategies for navigating job searches. Tune in to gain insights into career planning and the diverse opportunities available in orthopedic surgery.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Austin Kaidi, MD, an orthopedic surgery resident at HSS, speaks with Dr. Sravisht (Chevy) Iyer, MD, a spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery at HSS. As part of the Young Physician Series, they explore the art and science of teaching trainees in a clinical setting. Their conversation covers strategies for adapting teaching styles to trainees at different stages of their careers, balancing patient care with education, and the mutual benefits of mentorship in the surgical field. Tune in to hear insights on fostering the next generation of orthopedic surgeons while enhancing your own practice.

Can listening to music assist patients' recovery in the perioperative period? On this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Stephanie Cheng, an anesthesiologist and director of the Perioperative Integrative Medicine program at HSS, talks with Dr. Veena Graff, an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at Penn Medicine, about the use of music as medicine. They discuss the evidence on using soothing music as a complementary, nonpharmacologic method—pre-, intra-, or postoperatively—and how to implement it for surgical patients.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jeffrey M. Ciccone and Dr. Semih Gungor, anesthesiologists at HSS, talk about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, a potentially debilitating condition affecting the extremities. They discuss identifying surgical patients at risk, early diagnosis, and treatment modalities including sympathetic nerve blocks, medications, and implantable neurostimulation devices.

This episode of HSS Presents is Part 2 in a series on cannabis in musculoskeletal care. Join Dr. Seth Waldman, an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at HSS, and Dr. Alexandra Sideris, the C.V. Starr Director in pain research at HSS, as they discuss the role of cannabis in anesthesiology and surgery, including recommendations for perioperative management of cannabis and cannabinoids from the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine Cannabis Working Group.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Seth Waldman, an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at HSS, talks with Dr. Alexandra Sideris, the C.V. Starr Director in pain research at HSS. Join them in the first episode in a new series devoted to cannabis in musculoskeletal care. They discuss the basic science of cannabinoids, including the endocannabinoid system, and the latest research on the analgesic effects of various exogenous cannabinoids such as CBD and THC.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. James Robinson, a sports medicine physician at HSS, speaks to Dr. Daphne Scott and Dr. Sam Taylor. Dr. Taylor is an HSS physician who currently serves as a team physician for the New York Football Giants. Dr. Daphne Scott currently serves as the Head Team Physician for the New York Knicks. Join them as they discuss their experience including the benefits and challenges of caring for professional athletes.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Heidi Prather, a physiatrist at HSS and the founder and Medical Director of the HSS Lifestyle Medicine program, speaks to Karen Griffin, a nurse practitioner at HSS, and Caryn Dugan, the founder of STL Veg Girl. Join them as they discuss the science behind whole-food, plant-based nutrition and the role of nutrition in improving surgical outcomes.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Beth Shubin Stein, the Co-Director of the Women's Sports Medicine Center (WSMC) at HSS, speaks to Dr. Marci Goolsby, the Co-Director of the WSMC and the Director of Sports Medicine for the WNBA. Join them as they discuss their journeys to the field of sports medicine, treating athletes of all ages, and educating the next generation.      

In this episode of HSS presents, JeMe Cioppa-Mosca, the Senior Vice President of HSS Rehabilitation and Performance, speaks to Dr. Michael Alexiades, a hip and knee surgeon and the Medical Director of the Rehabilitation Department at HSS. Join them as they discuss the history of the rehab department at HSS, how rehabilitation practices have changed over the years, the relationship between the physical therapist and the surgeon, and the future for HSS rehabilitation.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Matthew Conti, a foot and ankle surgeon at HSS, speaks to Steve Forti, the Chief Wellness Officer at HSS. Join them as they discuss the professional, nutritional, and social implications of alcohol use and sobriety.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. James Robinson, a primary sports medicine physician at HSS, speaks to Dr. Kristina Quirolgico, a sports medicine physiatrist at Campbell Clinic and Dr. Mark Drakos, a foot and ankle surgeon at HSS. Join them as they discuss the clinical indications of shockwave therapy and other pearls physicians interested in this technique should know.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Hailey Huddleston, a 4th-year resident at HSS, speaks to Dr. Sabrina Strickland, a sports medicine physician at HSS. Join them as they discuss how a young surgeon chooses a practice model, networks with other physicians, and manages others.

In this episode of HSS presents, Snehal Patel, a physical therapist at HSS with over 23 years of experience, speaks to Dr. Riley Williams, an orthopedic surgeon at the Sports Medicine Institute at HSS. Join them as they discuss the criteria to return to sport after an ACL injury including the timelines, assessments, and metrics.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Joshua Bram, a resident at HSS focusing on pediatric orthopedics, talks with his mentor, Dr. Peter Fabricant, an attending orthopedic surgeon at HSS. Join them as they discuss balancing research with clinical responsibilities as a part of our Young Physicians series.

In this episode of HSS presents, anesthesiologists and spine surgeons discuss the latest innovations in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). Dr. Jeff Ciccone and Dr. Anuj Malhotra, anesthesiologists at HSS, speak with Dr. Francis Lovecchio and Dr. Zachary Grabel, spine surgeons at HSS, on the pros and cons of new technologies and emerging techniques in MISS.

In this episode of HSS presents, join 4 orthopaedic surgeons from the HSS Limb Lengthening and Complex Reconstruction Service: co-founders Dr. Austin Fragomen and Dr. Robert Rozbruch are joined by Dr. Taylor Reif and Dr. Jason Hoellwarth. Together, they discuss the start of HSS's Osseointegration Limb Replacement Center and its impact on patients' lives.

In this episode of HSS presents, Sharlynn Tuohy, the assistant Vice President for Rehabilitation and Performance at HSS, speaks to Tricia Bonamo, the clinical director of the advanced practices providers at HSS. Join them as they discuss some of the key takeaways from the HSS Journal's February 2024 Special Issue on the shortened stay for total joint arthroplasty including changing organization and patient culture, setting expectations, and implementing efficient day of surgery protocols in order to minimize barriers to patient discharge. 1

 In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Constantine Demetracopolous, a foot and ankle surgeon and the Director of the Total Ankle Replacement Center at HSS, speaks to his colleague Dr. Jensen Henry. Join them as they discuss the past and future of Total Ankle Replacement, including several recent studies Dr. Henry has presented related to the development of the Total Ankle Replacement Registry at HSS.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Mark Figgie, Chief Emeritus of the Surgical Arthritis Service at HSS, speaks to Dr. Alberto Carli, surgeon-scientist at HSS who specializes in in minimally invasive joint replacement and preventing infections. Join them as they discuss their Case Report in the February 2024 issue of “Grand Rounds from HSS: Management of Complex Cases” on chronic PJI in an immunocompromised patient.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. James Robinson, a Primary Sports Medicine physician at HSS, speaks to Dr. Teena Shetty, Director for the Concussion Program in Neurology at HSS. Join them as they discuss the major risk factors for concussion injuries, the nuances of concussion symptoms, as well as the unique multidisciplinary approach of the concussion program active recovery clinic at HSS.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Jason Blevins, orthopaedic surgeon at HSS, speaks to Dr. Yunpei Kung, from the Seoul Bumin Hospital Group in South Korea. Dr. Kung is the Director of Robot Artificial Joint Center at Bumin Hospital, and he was the first Mako Robot specific surgeon in South Korea. Join them as they discuss various topics around the use of robotic arm assisted surgery including accuracy, avoiding blood loss, and complex cases.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Geoffrey Westrich, an orthopaedic surgeon who has served as the Research Director of the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service at HSS for more than 15 years, speaks to Dr. Elizabeth Gausden, an orthopaedic surgeon at HSS specializing in adult lower extremity reconstructive surgery and orthopedic trauma. Join them as they compare their experiences with robotic and traditional joint replacement techniques and discuss key research questions projects related to robotics.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter K. Sculco, a hip and knee surgeon who specializes in complex joint reconstruction at HSS, talks to his colleague and father, Dr. Thomas Sculco, who has over 40 years of experience in joint reconstruction and currently serves as the current Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at HSS. Join them as they discuss the impetus and impact of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Complex Joint Reconstruction Center at HSS, and how technology will impact total knee arthroplasty revisions in the future.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Seth Waldman, an anesthesiologist at HSS with over 20 years of experience in pain management, speaks with author, teacher and bioethics researcher, Dr. Travis Rieder. Join them as they discuss Dr. Rieder's latest book “Catastrophe Ethics: How to Choose Well in a World of Tough Choices”.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Jo Hannafin, the first female president of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, speaks with her co-founder of the Women in Sports Medicine Center (WSMC), Dr. Lisa Callahan. Dr. Callahan was the NBA's first female head team physician. Physical Therapist Theresa Chiaia has been a member of the WSMC for 40 years and adds valuable perspective to this conversation. Join them as they discuss the inception and evolution of the WSMC and the challenges that women of all levels of sport have faced over the years.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Matthew Conti, a foot and ankle surgeon at HSS, talks to OrthoCarolina foot and ankle surgeon and HSS Alumni, Dr. Hodges Davis about work-life balance, teaching, and mentorship. Dr. Davis brings 30+ years of personal and professional experience to this special conversation on excelling as a medical professional while also being intentional to prioritize life outside of work.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. David Altcheck, attending orthopedic surgeon and co-chief emeritus of the HSS Sports Medicine Institute speaks to Dr. Josh Dines, orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine and non-operative and operative treatments. Join them as they discuss options of ligament repair as opposed to the ligament reconstruction during "Tommy John" surgery.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Matt Conti, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery and treats a wide range of both non-operative and operative foot and ankle issues, talks about Autonomic downregulation and Communication under stress with Steve Forti, the Chief Wellness and Resiliency Officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery. Steve is responsible for creating and managing programs designed to promote the mental and physical health and well-being of the medical staff, clinicians, and employees across the enterprise.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Stephanie Cheng, an anesthesiologist at HSS who specializes in the integration of non-pharmacologic/novel modalities for orthopedic surgery speaks to two HSS surgeons, Dr. Michael Ast, the Chief Medical Innovation Officer at HSS who focuses on complex and revision total joint replacement, and Dr. Elizabeth Gausden, an Assistant Attending at HSS specializing in adult lower extremity reconstructive surgery and orthopedic trauma. Join them as they discuss how implementing acupuncture in the peri-operative setting has significantly impacted the post-operative experience for their patients.

In this episode of HSS presents, Dr. Scott Rodeo, an Orthopaedic surgeon and the Director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine at HSS, speaks to Dr. James Wyss, a sports physiatrist at HSS who specializes in nonsurgical musculoskeleteal health and sports medicine care. Join them as they discuss the benefits and risks of regenerative medicine techniques such as PRP, stem cell therapy, and exosomes.

In this episode of HSS Presents, 3 sports medicine physicians discuss approaches to preparing for sudden cardiac arrest in athletes. Dr. James Robinson, team physician for the New York Liberty, speaks with Dr. Kathryn McElheny, head physician for the New York Mets, and Dr. Brett Toresdahl, head team physician for the US Biathlon.

In this CME episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Seth Waldman, an anesthesiologist in the Pain Management Division at HSS, speaks to Attending Psychiatrist and addiction specialist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Dr. Jonathan Avery. Join them as they discuss methods of diagnosis, new technologies, and the role of stigma when treating complex cases that involve substance abuse disorders. To claim CME credit, download the free ConveyMED App: Apple Store click here Google Play click here and follow instructions in the app.  Further resources for physicians:  https://pcssnow.org/  https://elearning.asam.org/opioid-education-overview  https://www.substanceusestigma.com/   

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Catherine MacLean, Chief Value Medical Officer at HSS, speaks to Dr. Alexander McLawhorn, Director of Research and Innovation, ARJR Service at HSS, Dr. Ernest Sink, Chief of the Hip Preservation Service at HSS and Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu, orthopedic surgeon and Co-Director of Clinical Research for the Sports Medicine Institute at HSS. Join them as they discuss clinical implementation and current research topics related to Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs).

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. James Robinson, HSS sports medicine physician and team physician for the WNBA New York Liberty, talks with Dr. Kinderknecht, HSS sports medicine physician and team physician for the New York Giants, about sideline management. Join them as they discuss recognition, management, and treatment of concussions and how new approaches have evolved, which are reflected in the Consensus Statement from the International Conference on Concussion in Sport in 2022.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Matthew Conti, a foot and ankle surgeon at HSS, talks about Autonomic downregulation with Steve Forti, HSS's Chief Wellness and Resiliency Officer. Join them as they discuss stress management tools such as sleep hygiene, breathwork, postural realignment, and more.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Heidi Prather, a physiatrist specializing in Lifestyle Medicine (LM) with HSS and Dr. Fred D. Cushner, an HSS knee surgeon, discuss the benefits of introducing LM practices to higher-risk, obese patients prior to surgery and LM's positive impact on both patient experience and surgical outcomes.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi, the Co-Chief of HSS Spine and an Attending Orthopedic Surgeon at HSS, talks with Dr. Austin Kaidi, a 3rd year Orthopaedic Surgery Resident at HSS, about their Case Report in the August 2023 issue of “Grand Rounds from HSS: Management of Complex Cases.” They discuss the use of robotic-assisted lumbar decompression to treat a 41-year-old patient with spondylolisthesis and the future implications of this technology in spine surgery. 

In this episode "Prescribing The Medicine of Exercise", three HSS experts discuss the value of establishing exercise as a regularly used remedy and what that means for patients and physicians. Our host Jordan D. Metzl, MD, "The Athlete's Doctor", whose focus is to safely return athletes to the playing field of their choice, is joined by fellow Sports Medicine physician David A. Wang, MD, who specializes in the treatment of acute and overuse injuries, and Polly de Mille, RN, an Exercise Physiologist whose focus is rehabilitative care for patients and getting them back to what they love to do.

On this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Anil S. Ranawat, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports injuries of the hip, knee and shoulder at HSS, speaks with Dr. Andreas H. Gomoll, a fellow Sports Institute orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint preservation of the knee and shoulder. The discussion covers a variety of topics ranging from traditional arthroplasty and injections to more advanced concepts of osteotomy, with the primary focus on alternatives to arthroplasty.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Struan Coleman, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation and sports medicine at HSS and at the Vincera Institute in Philadelphia, speaks with Dr. William Meyers, an authority on the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of core muscle injuries who founded the Vincera Institute in 2013. Join them as they discuss combined hip and core muscle injuries in athletes and non-athletes alike. To see the transcript, download the ConveyMED App for free:  Apple Store click here Google Play click here

In this episode of HSS Presents, 3 physicians from HSS discuss how the understanding of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or JIA, has evolved. Two orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Jason Blevins and Dr. Mark Figgie, talk with Dr. Karen Onel, a pediatric rheumatologist, about best practices in working together to diagnose and treat young patients—especially since medications have prevented many children from experiencing the joint destruction seen in decades past. To see the transcript, download the ConveyMED App for free:  Apple Store click here Google Play click here  

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Francis Lovecchio, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in complex spine surgery and spinal deformity correction at HSS, talks about scoliosis correction with former HSS resident and now key leader in spine surgery, Dr. Serena Hu. Dr. Hu is professor of orthopaedic and neurosurgery at Stanford University and chief of the Orthopaedic Spine Service at Stanford Medicine. Among her many achievements and honors, in September 2022 she was named the first female president of the Scoliosis Research Society. To see the transcript, download the ConveyMED App for free:  Apple Store click here Google Play click here

In part 2 of this episode from HSS Presents, 4 surgeons from the HSS Limb Lengthening & Complex Reconstruction Service conclude the discussion on the history and future directions of this field. Guest host Dr. Jason Shih Hoellwarth talks with Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch, Dr. Austin T. Fragomen, and Dr. Taylor J. Reif about best practices in limb lengthening, osseointegration surgery, orthopedic oncology, and limb salvage and amputation. To see the transcript, download the ConveyMED App for free:  Apple Store click here Google Play click here