Most Innovative Spine Surgery Hospitals to know in 2024.pdf
1. Dr. Ni n Bha a, MD
Chair of the Department
of Orthopaedic Surgery
UCI Health
Dr. Michael Oh, MD
Neurosurgeon
UCI Health
Upli ing Excellence, Transforming Healthcare
Most Innova ve Spine Surgery Hospitals to know in 2024
Precision in Motion
Advancements in Spine
Surgery Techniques
Back to Basics
Understanding the Essence
of Spine Surgery
5. Throughout this edition, we explore the distinctive features
of each hospital, shedding light on their expertise in
addressing a spectrum of spinal conditions – from common
issues like herniated discs to more complex challenges such
as spinal deformities. Our mission is to empower our
readers with pertinent information. Whether you are a
patient seeking optimal care for spinal concerns or a
healthcare professional striving to stay abreast of the latest
innovations, this edition serves as your essential resource.
Embark on this enlightening journey with us as we
celebrate and commend the accomplishments of the Most
Innovative Spine Surgery Hospitals in 2024. These
institutions epitomize a dedication to excellence, pushing
the boundaries of what is achievable in the field of spine
surgery.
We invite you to delve into the features and uncover the
impactful contributions these hospitals are making to
advance the standard of care in spine surgery!
Welcome to our special edition dedicated to
showcasing the forefront of medical innovation:
the Most Innovative Spine Surgery Hospitals
to Know in 2024. In the dynamic realm of healthcare, it is
paramount to recognize institutions that have distinguished
themselves through pioneering advancements in spine
surgery.
This edition brings forth a carefully curated selection of
hospitals that have set new standards by embracing cutting-
edge technologies, implementing advanced surgical
techniques, and prioritizing patient-centered care. These
establishments redefine the landscape of spine surgery by
seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art tools, robotics, and
innovative imaging methods into their practices.
Beyond excelling in traditional surgical approaches, these
hospitals have become trailblazers in minimally invasive
procedures. By adopting sophisticated navigation systems
and leveraging robotics, they have elevated the precision
and effectiveness of spine surgeries, promising superior
outcomes for patients.
Managing Editor
Managing Editor
6. Profile
18
Articles
CONTENTS
Precision in Mo on
Advancements in Spine
Surgery Techniques
Hollywood Presbyterian
Medical Center
Eleva ng Healthcare through
Medical Advancements
22
24
Back to Basics
Understanding the
Essence of Spine Surgery
10. UCI Health
research has led
to the
development of
new techniques
and technologies
to make spine
surgery be er
and to also help
pa ents avoid
surgery.
Dr. Ni n Bha a, MD
Chair of the Department
of Orthopaedic Surgery
UCI Health
– Dr. Bha a
13. Advancing a healthcare institution requires a team of
skilled and dedicated medical professionals. This
challenging sector demands constant innovation
integrated with the adoption of the latest technologies.
Truly innovative healthcare systems go beyond delivering
satisfactory service and strive to push the boundaries to
offer the highest quality care. This is what makes a
healthcare establishment stand out, and this is what defines
UCI Health, the clinical enterprise of the University of
California, Irvine (UCI).
Welcome to the world of groundbreaking spine surgery,
where precision meets innovation and patient care is
elevated to an art form. UCI Health is not just a medical
institution; it's an academic health system that sets the
standards for the future. Comprising UCI Medical Center
and a growing network of ambulatory care sites, UCI
Health is renowned for its expertise in areas such as cancer,
cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and women's
health.
Dr. Nitin N. Bhatia a UCI Health orthopaedic surgeon
,
and in
Chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
the UCI School of Medicine, is at the forefront of
excellence in spine surgery. A luminary in the field, Dr.
Bhatia's accolades and research achievements speak
volumes about his dedication to advancing spine surgery.
Joining him in the pursuit of excellence is Dr. Michael Y.
Oh neurosurgeon
, a distinguished at UCI Health and the
Department of Neurological Surgery, UCI School of
Medicine. Dr. Oh specializes in spine disorders, stereotactic
and functional neurosurgery, particularly for movement
disorders such as Parkinson's disease and other
neurodegenerative disorders. With over 26 years of
experience, Dr. Oh is not just a board-certified
neurosurgeon; he is a visionary shaping the future of
neurosurgery.
In our exclusive interaction with Dr. Bhatia and Dr. Oh, we
explore the complex world of spine surgery and the leading
role UCI Health plays in offering innovative solutions.
Get enlightened as we dive into the world of exemplary
service, where UCI Health is charting the course for the
future of spine surgery.
Advancing Healthcare Through Discovery, Education
and Healing
UCI Health is dedicated to advancing healthcare through
scientific discovery, clinical innovation and a laser focus on
the best patient experience. Our institution's mission,
Discover. Teach. Heal. underscores the UCI Health
commitment to multifaceted excellence.
Within the UCI School of Medicine, the mission is to
'deliver accessible, patient-centered healthcare of the
highest caliber while training compassionate, visionary and
innovative clinicians and researchers.'
Upholding a strategic vision that aims to 'bring
personalized, leading-edge care to you and our community,
to be the best place to give and get care,' UCI Health stands
at the forefront of healthcare institutions.
Dr. Bhatia, an integral UCI Health leader, emphasizes, "As
the only academic medical center in Orange County, Calif.,
and a region of nearly four million people, UCI Health
provides the highest-level care to our community while also
discovering future treatments and techniques, while
educating future healthcare providers."
Revolutionizing Spine Surgery
In the last 20 years, UCI Health has been a leader in the
rapid evolution in spine surgery techniques and
technologies, leading innovations that enhance patient care.
Dr. Bhatia stresses the institution's commitment to cutting-
edge technology: "10 years ago, we opened a state-of-the-
art hospital in the city of Orange and will open an
additional medical campus in Irvine over the next two
years. An outpatient care center and a hospital with acute
care are scheduled to open in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Both campuses are committed to the most advanced
technologies available, including robotic spine surgery and
3D intraoperative navigation." UCI Health surgeons have
pioneered techniques like endoscopic spine surgery and
laminoplasty surgery, elevating the reliability, safety, and
Most Innova ve Spine Surgery Hospitals to know in 2024
In my work, I strive to
make sure that every pa ent
is treated like they are our
most important pa ent,
because they each are.
– Dr. Bha a
14. effectiveness of spine surgery compared to previous
methods.
A Multidisciplinary Approach
"The UCI Health Comprehensive Spine Center stands out
as one of the few multidisciplinary spine centers in the
country," Dr. Bhatia says. This distinctive center brings
together a team of dedicated experts from various fields,
encouraging a collaborative environment aimed at
achieving a singular mission: to enhance the lives of both
current and future generations of patients.
The Comprehensive Spine Center's unique strength lies in
its diverse roster, including orthopaedic spine surgeons,
neurosurgeons, radiologists, pain management physicians,
neurologists, integrative health experts, physical therapists,
and scientists. This collective expertise forms a dynamic
and interactive group working cohesively towards the
common goal of improving patient outcomes and advancing
the field of spine care.
Dr. Bhatia's Path to Leadership in Spine Surgery
Dr. Bhatia's distinguished professional journey has been
shaped by an outstanding educational background and
significant experiences that have culminated in his current
role as Chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery,
UCI School of Medicine, and chief of the spine service for
the university's health system, UCI Health, where he has
dedicated almost two decades of service.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Bhatia shares, "The path to
my role was highly influenced by the mentors I had during
training and the experiences I had with them." His
educational foundation includes undergraduate studies at
Stanford University, medical school at Baylor College of
Medicine, and orthopaedic surgery residency training at
UCLA. He further enhanced his skills through a combined
orthopaedic surgery and neurosurgery fellowship at the
University of Miami School of Medicine.
Dr. Bhatia attributes much of his success to his invaluable
experiences working alongside pioneers in modern spine
surgery during his training at UCLA and the University of
Miami. "Besides being amazing surgeons, they were also
amazing people, compassionate physicians, and tremendous
educators," he says.
The profound impact of these mentors expanded Dr.
Bhatia's perspective on the role of a surgeon. "Seeing that
being a good surgeon is far beyond just being a good
technician inspired me to pursue a career in academic
medicine," he says. In his current role, he considers himself
blessed to perform surgery, engage in groundbreaking
research, and contribute to the education of the next
generation of physicians.
Balancing Skill and Compassion
Dr. Bhatia takes great pride in his role as a spine surgeon.
"As spine surgeons, we are blessed to be able to help people
on their path to a healthy, pain-free life, and we must
remember this on a daily basis," he says. His perspective
goes beyond the technical aspects, highlighting the
importance of compassion, communication, and
thoughtfulness in the domain of spine surgery.
Dr. Bhatia emphasizes that being a spine surgeon is not just
about technical expertise; it's about understanding the
patient's journey and the complexities of their condition.
"Spine surgeons should be great technicians, of course, but
we must also be compassionate, communicative, and
thoughtful," he says. "We have to be able to identify who
we can help and what we can or cannot solve."
"In my work," Dr. Bhatia continues, "I strive to make sure
that every patient is treated like they are our most important
patient, because they each are."
His dedication is further evident in the thorough preparation
for surgery. Each case is reviewed with particular attention
to detail, ensuring an individualized approach that
recognizes the uniqueness of each patient's situation. He
acknowledges the honor and massive responsibility that
comes with taking care of patients, emphasizing, "We treat
it as such."
I have focused on
improving spine care by
concentra ng on programma c
subspecialty development to
meet the triple mission to
discover, teach, and heal.
– Dr. Oh
15.
16.
17. A Global Pioneer in Advancing Spine Surgery
Research
The UCI Health commitment to advancing the field
is evident through research initiatives covering
diverse aspects of spine care.
Dr. Bhatia emphasizes, "We perform research
throughout the spectrum of spine care," showcasing
UCI Health's expansive approach. This includes
delving into non-traditional integrative care,
exploring avenues for spinal cord injury repair,
investigating regenerative medicine applications,
and actively participating in clinical trials for
pioneering procedures and implants.
The impact of UCI Health's research efforts is
significant. "UCI Health research has led to the
development of new techniques and technologies to
make spine surgery better and to also help patients
avoid surgery," he says. This underlines the
institution's dual commitment to enhancing the
efficacy of spine surgery while also seeking
innovative solutions to potentially spare patients
from unnecessary surgical interventions.
Dr. Oh's Venture in Spine Care
In contrast to the dramatized portrayals of
neurosurgeons in movies and television shows like
Grey's Anatomy, Dr. Oh points out the reality that
"most neurosurgeons do more spine surgery than
brain surgery." His personal journey reflects the
practical experiences gained during residency
training at Allegheny General Hospital in
Pittsburgh, where a significant focus was placed on
spine surgery. After completing an Internship in
surgery at Allegheny General Hospital in
Pittsburgh, Pa., he did a research fellowship in
stereotactic and functional neurosurgery at the
University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. He then
completed a neurosurgery residency at Allegheny
General Hospital, where he served as chief resident.
Dr. Oh's professional trajectory took an unexpected
turn during his first academic job in Missouri. He
found himself thrust into the role of director of
spine, a position necessitated by the departure of
two other spine surgeons from the university of
Missouri just before his arrival. This rapid
assumption of responsibility brought with it a
18. profound appreciation for the intricacies of complex
decision-making and the rapid technological advancements
occurring in the field of spine surgery.
"Since then, and especially here at UCI Health," Dr. Oh
states, "I have focused on improving spine care by
concentrating on programmatic subspecialty development
to meet the triple mission to discover, teach, and heal."
Dr. Oh's Perspective on Staying Ahead
In the field of neurosurgery, Dr. Oh imparts a valuable
insight, stating, "The best way to stay up-to-date is to
constantly ask yourself, 'Is there a better way?'" This simple
yet profound question, often reserved for times of surgical
complications, holds even greater significance when
everything is running smoothly.
He emphasizes the critical nature of regularly posing this
question. "If you aren't asking 'Is there a better way?' on a
regular basis, you are likely providing good care but are not
contributing to progress in your specialized field." This
perspective underscores the importance of continuous
improvement and the role of questioning in fostering
innovation and advancement.
At the UCI Health Comprehensive Spine Center, Dr. Oh
sets a high standard. "'Good enough' is not good enough,"
he says. This commitment to excellence reflects the center's
dedication to expanding the boundaries of care and ensuring
that every aspect of neurosurgery meets the highest
standards.
Commitment to Excellence at UCI Health
At UCI Health, the principle of "First do no harm"
transcends being a mere oath; it is a mantra ingrained in the
ethos of this academic medical center. Dr. Oh affirms, "Not
only do we tend to provide the most advanced care in the
region, but we also provide very conservative care." This
commitment is reflected in the cautious approach taken,
where invasive procedures and surgery are considered only
after exhausting other multidisciplinary avenues.
The comprehensive spine center at UCI Health further
exemplifies this commitment to patient well-being.
Dedicated programs address spine tumors, deformities and
trauma, ensuring that individuals with these conditions
receive treatment from a team recognized as the best of the
best.
Dr. Oh sheds light on the center's emphasis on
specialization, stating, "We also have subspecialty programs
in endoscopic, robotic, and minimally invasive spine
surgery that are each run by leaders in their field." This
strategic focus on subspecialty programs not only signifies
expertise but also highlights a commitment to offering
patients the latest advancements and the highest standards
of care.
Charting the Future
As the landscape of spine surgery evolves, Dr. Oh envisions
a paradigm shift. "The future of spine surgery is to look at
the whole spine patient and not just the surgery they may
need at the end of an algorithm," he says. Emphasizing a
comprehensive approach, he envisions a future where spine
surgeons become integral members of the primary care
team, particularly for back and neck pain—the leading
cause of lifetime disability worldwide.
Dr. Oh's forward-looking perspective extends to the
growing presence of artificial intelligence and robotic
assistance in many aspects of medical and surgical care.
"UCI Health is preparing for an AI-driven, robotic-assisted
world where patient-centered and physician-directed care
will become even more important," he says. As healthcare
continues to transform, UCI Health continues to stay at the
forefront to bring promising new therapies to Orange
County patients and beyond.
To learn more about the UCI Health Comprehensive Spine
Center, please call 714-695-5633 or visit
ucihealth.org/spine-care.
We also have subspecialty
programs in endoscopic, robo c,
and minimally invasive spine
surgery that are each run by
leaders in their field.
– Dr. Oh
24. In the heart of Los Angeles, where the glitz and
glamour of Hollywood meet the profound world of
healthcare, CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical
Center (CHA HPMC) stands tall as a leading institution of
pioneering excellence. As we delve into the complex world
of medical innovation, CHA HPMC emerges as a
distinguished name, heading groundbreaking advancements
in spine surgery.
Situated within the expansive network of CHA Health
Systems, a global healthcare powerhouse, CHA HPMC has
carved a niche for itself through a commitment to pushing
the boundaries of medical practice. Leading this endeavor is
Jamie Yoo, the Chief Executive Officer of CHA HPMC.
With a stellar track record that includes leadership roles at
prominent medical centers, Jamie brings a wealth of
experience in operations, business development, strategy,
and technology to the helm.
But what truly sets CHA HPMC apart is not just its
leadership but its relentless dedication to advancing
healthcare on multiple fronts. The medical center is
currently engaged in a $40.5 million multisite study funded
by the National Institute on Aging, contributing
significantly to the development of the Asian Cohort for
Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD). This commitment to research
mirrors CHA HPMC's ethos of continuous improvement
and progress.
Dr. Sun H. Lee, a distinguished Neurosurgeon affiliated
with CHA HPMC, epitomizes a commitment to excellence.
A fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeon
specializing in complex spine and brain tumor surgery, Dr.
Lee is a driving force behind the medical center's success in
the field of spine surgery.
In an exclusive interview with Jamie Yoo and Dr. Lee, we
uncover the captivating story of CHA HPMC.
Can you please provide an overview of your professional
background and what inspired you to pursue a career in
healthcare leadership?
My first experience in the healthcare space was actually as
an intern at CHA HPMC in the project
Eleva ng Healthcare through Medical Advancements
Jamie Yoo,
CEO
Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center
The key is a great team. We
have a specialized and dedicated
team for spine surgery.
22
February 2024 www.insightscare.com
25. management/business development office. During this
internship, I was able to see all different aspects of running
a hospital, spending one month learning about each area
(finance, operations, nursing, medical records, admission,
etc.). I was in awe of the dedication of those that work in
healthcare and how it truly takes a village to provide
healthcare. I was struck by all the moving pieces necessary
and the number of caregivers that are needed to provide
care to one patient.
Jamie earned his master's degree in Business
Administration from the Marshall School of Business at the
University of Southern California. He is a native of
Southern California and cares deeply about the local
communities CHA HPMC serves.
Brief our readers about CHA HPMC. How does it
differentiate itself in the field of spine surgery?
CHA HPMC is a nationally recognized acute care facility
that has cared for Hollywood and its surrounding
communities since 1924. We offer comprehensive health
care services with a 434-bed acute care facility, including
89 skilled nursing beds. We are a member of CHA Health
Systems, a dynamic global healthcare organization that
provides a full spectrum of services in seven countries
around the world, including 86 hospitals and clinics, 30
research and 14 education institutions and 31
bio/pharmaceutical/healthcare companies.
CHA HPMC is equipped with cutting-edge devices and
surgical equipment. It is a community hospital but boasts all
the equipment and advanced devices that you'd typically
find in larger medical facilities. We do minimally invasive
surgery and utilize a navigation system used for
localization, allowing surgeons to precisely track instrument
positions during operations.
Shed some light on the diverse range of services and
treatments that the hospital offers.
For almost a century, CHA HPMC has diligently served the
Los Angeles community with an array of services. It has
one of the largest labor and delivery units in LA, boasts
several surgical services which includes one of the few
Fetal Surgery Programs in the US and is home to the
Southern California Eye Institute. Although CHA HPMC is
proud to be a safety-net community hospital, it also
provides various high-end services and has one of the
busiest emergency rooms in the county.
How do you incorporate individual differences and
cultural inclusivity into your leadership at CHA
HPMC?
The hospital has a medical staff of more than 550
physicians and specialists, representing 69 specialties and
75 different countries. We feel very fortunate that our
patients have a diverse group of caregivers that represent all
corners of the world. Whether it be ensuring dietary needs
meet religious/ethnic customs or providing interpreters that
speak our patients' preferred language, CHA HPMC
embraces the area's diverse, multicultural patient
populations and provide all who walk through its door's
quality care in a compassionate manner.
How does the hospital stay at the forefront of
technological advancements in spine surgery?
The key is a great team. We have a specialized and
dedicated team for spine surgery. Over the years, having
worked together on numerous cases, we work effectively
and understand what surgeons want or need during
operations. With a competent team, surgery times are
reduced, leading to a lower possibility of complications, a
decreased infection rate, shorter hospital stays and etc. A
better clinical outcome means more referrals from primary
doctors and insurance companies, which is why we are
attracting more cases.
How would you advise someone wishing to pursue a
career in healthcare leadership?
Learning from others is important. Thus, finding a mentor
in the healthcare space is key. Never be afraid to ask
questions and if people open a door, make sure to take it.
Never be bashful when someone offers you their email or
phone number. It is always good to network in order to
exchange ideas or to garner opportunities.
How do you plan to maintain the hospital's status as one
of the most innovative spine surgery hospitals in the
coming years?
We will continue recruiting more surgeons who are capable
and skillful. One thing all hospitals should consider is cost-
effectiveness. Many patients that come to CHA HPMC are
through referral from insurance companies. If hospitals use
resources effectively, saving costs during the surgeries
while maintaining a good outcome, insurance companies
will likely refer more patients. This would mean more cases
for hospitals and ultimately leading to better outcomes for
the patients needing spine surgeries.
Most Innova ve Spine Surgery Hospitals to know in 2024
www.insightscare.com
23
February 2024
26. In the realm of medical breakthroughs, spine surgery
stands out as a transformative field that has evolved
significantly over the years. The essence of spine
surgery lies in its ability to address a myriad of back-related
issues, offering relief and improved quality of life for
countless individuals.
Let's delve into the fundamentals of spine surgery,
demystifying the complexities and highlighting the essential
aspects that form the backbone of this critical medical
discipline!
Understanding the Spine
At the heart of spine surgery is a deep understanding of the
spine itself. The spine, or backbone, is a complex structure
consisting of vertebrae, discs, and nerves. Its primary
functions include providing support, flexibility, and
protection for the spinal cord. Anatomically, the spine is
divided into regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back),
lumbar (lower back), sacral, and coccygeal. Each segment
plays a unique role in maintaining balance and facilitating
movement.
Indications for Spine Surgery
Spine surgery is considered when conservative treatments,
such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes,
prove insufficient in addressing chronic back pain or
neurological symptoms. Common indications for surgery
include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc
disease, spinal deformities, fractures, and tumors. The
decision to proceed with surgery is carefully evaluated,
Back to Basics
24
February 2024 www.insightscare.com
the Essence
Spine Surgery
Understanding
of
28. considering the patient's overall health, symptoms, and the
procedure's potential benefits.
Types of Spine Surgery
There are various types of spine surgery, each tailored to
specific conditions and patient needs. One of the most
common procedures is discectomy, which involves
removing a portion of a herniated disc that may be pressing
on a nerve. Another procedure, spinal fusion, aims to
stabilize the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae together,
often using bone grafts or implants. Decompression surgery,
laminectomy, and disc replacement are among other
approaches employed based on the nature of the spinal
issue.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Advancements in medical technology have paved the way
for minimally invasive spine surgery, a significant
development in recent years. This approach involves
smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and advanced
imaging techniques. Minimally invasive procedures reduce
trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in shorter recovery
times, less postoperative pain, and decreased risk of
complications. This evolution marks a shift towards
providing patients with more efficient and patient-friendly
solutions.
Preoperative Evaluation
Prior to any spine surgery, a thorough preoperative
evaluation is conducted to assess the patient's overall health
and identify potential risk factors. This evaluation includes
a review of medical history, physical examinations, and
diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Clear
communication between the patient and the surgical team is
crucial to ensure informed decision-making and to address
any concerns or questions the patient may have.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation
Understanding the essence of spine surgery extends beyond
the operating room to encompass postoperative care and
rehabilitation. The recovery period varies depending on the
type of surgery performed and individual factors. Patients
are typically encouraged to engage in physical therapy to
regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Follow-up
appointments with the surgeon allow for ongoing
monitoring of the recovery process and adjustments to the
treatment plan if needed.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, spine surgery carries certain
risks and potential complications. These may include
infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or the need for
additional surgeries. It is essential for both the surgical team
and the patient to be aware of these risks and work
collaboratively to minimize them. Thorough preoperative
evaluations and open communication contribute to a safer
surgical experience.
Evolving Technologies
The landscape of spine surgery continues to evolve with
advancements in technology. Robotics and navigation
systems enhance surgical precision, improving outcomes
and reducing the risk of complications. Innovations in
materials for implants, such as patient-specific devices,
contribute to better long-term results. The ongoing
integration of cutting-edge technologies ensures that spine
surgery remains at the forefront of medical progress.
Conclusion
Understanding the essence of spine surgery takes us back to
the basics of anatomical knowledge, patient-centered care,
and the continuous evolution of medical practices. At its
core, spine surgery is a dynamic field that combines
expertise, compassion, and innovation to address a diverse
range of back-related issues. As we navigate the intricacies
of the spine, the commitment to simplicity, clarity, and
patient well-being remains paramount, reaffirming the
significance of this vital branch of medical science.
26
February 2024 www.insightscare.com
29.
30. Stay in Touch.
Subscribe to Insightscare Get Insights Care
Magazine in print, & digital on
www.insightscare.com
Corporate Office
Insights Success Media Tech LLC
555 Metro Place North, Suite 100,
Dublin,OH 43017, United States
Phone - (614)-602 - 1754,(302)-319-9947
Email: info@insightscare.com
For Subscription : www.insightscare.com Cheque should be drawn in favor of :
INSIGHTS SUCCESS MEDIA TECH LLC
www.insightscare.com