AANS/CNS Spine Section

Semper Fortis. All ahead full. As one successful mission concludes, we’re already setting the course for #SpineSummit2027. Join the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves February 18–21 in Orlando—where preparation, precision, and teamwork define the special operators of spine surgery. Save the date. The next chapter is already underway. Supported by HonorHealth. @AANSNeuro @CNS_Update @CNSResidents

Today, we celebrate the mothers who inspire, support, and care for their families and communities every day. To the mothers within the spine and neurosurgical community — surgeons, physicians, APPs, nurses, researchers, coordinators, administrators, and caregivers — thank you for the countless ways you lead both at home and in healthcare. Your compassion, resilience, and dedication make a lasting impact on patients, colleagues, trainees, and families alike. Happy Mother’s Day from the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves (DSPN)! #MothersDay #DSPN #Neurosurgery #SpineSurgery @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update

Outstanding energy at the QOD / SpineCORe meeting during the AANS Annual Meeting as investigators, residents, medical students, fellows, and research coordinators from across the country came together to celebrate one of the most impactful collaborative research efforts in spine surgery. Coinciding with #AANS2026, Journal of Neurosurgery: Focus released a dedicated SpineCORe™ special issue featuring 20 articles focused on cervical spondylotic myelopathy and grade 2 spondylolisthesis—highlighting the power of longitudinal, multicenter outcomes research driven through QOD data. This special issue reflects years of collaboration, rigorous data collection, and thoughtful analysis from investigators nationwide—all with the shared goal of advancing evidence-based spine care and improving patient outcomes. Behind every publication is an incredible team effort: ➡️ Principal investigators ➡️ Fellows, residents, and students ➡️ Research coordinators and clinical teams ➡️ National collaborators committed to high-quality outcomes science A tremendous accomplishment for the SpineCORe™ and QOD community and a reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, data, and shared purpose. #DSPN #AANS2026 #QOD #SpineCORe #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #OutcomesResearch #TeamScience @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @andrewchanMD @DrDiGiorgio @eapotts @JNSPG_EIC @NREFORG @CheeragU

The Spine Scientific Program Committee (SPC) met today—bringing together leaders from across the country to begin shaping the 2027 Spine Summit. From course design to cutting-edge topics, this is where the ideas start—focused on delivering meaningful, high-impact education for spine surgeons at every stage of practice. Stay connected as the program comes to life. Follow DSPN on social media for updates, highlights, and early insights into what’s ahead for the 2027 Spine Summit. #DSPN #SpineSummit #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #MedicalEducation #SPC @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @SRS_org @CSRS_org

Great evening at the NREF Reception—bringing together leaders, mentors, and supporters committed to advancing the future of neurosurgery through research and education. Congratulations to Dr. Mike Wang, past Chair of the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves (DSPN), on stepping into the role of Chair of NREF. His leadership, vision, and longstanding commitment to our specialty make him exceptionally well-suited for this role. We also extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Adam Arthur for his outstanding tenure and service as Chair. His dedication has helped strengthen the foundation of neurosurgical research and training for the next generation. A great reminder of the importance of investing in innovation, discovery, and the future of our field. #NREF #DSPN #Neurosurgery #SpineSurgery #PhysicianLeadership #ResearchMatters @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @AANSNeuro @councilsns @NREFORG

A packed house this morning at the Haid Symposium—a testament to the continued impact and legacy of Dr. Regis W. Haid Jr., past Chair of the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves. The Haid Symposium brought together spine surgeons, innovators, and leaders to explore high-performance teams, cutting-edge technology, and the future of our specialty. From advanced surgical techniques to leadership lessons drawn from elite teams and special operations, the conversations here go beyond the OR—they shape how we think, lead, and evolve as spine surgeons. A powerful reminder of Dr. Haid’s enduring influence on spine surgery, leadership, and the next generation of neurosurgeons. #AANS2026 #DSPN #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Leadership #HaidSymposium @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @councilsns @CheeragU

The DSPN Executive Committee convened today—bringing together leaders from across the country committed to shaping the future of spine surgery. The voice of spine surgery—this is the team advocating, advancing, and fighting for every spine surgeon and the patients we serve. From health policy and advocacy to education, research, and innovation, the work happening at this table directly impacts our specialty and the care we deliver every day. Grateful for the leadership, collaboration, and shared commitment to moving spine surgery forward. #DSPN #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #PhysicianLeadership #Advocacy #SpineSection @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @councilsns @CheeragU

When insurers label proven technologies as “experimental,” it’s not just a policy decision—it’s a barrier to patient care. Interbody biomechanical devices (CPT 22853) have been a foundational component of spinal fusion for decades—supporting stability, alignment, and successful fusion outcomes. Yet coverage policies continue to lag behind the evidence. Spine surgeons are united in a simple principle: Clinical decisions belong in the hands of patients and their physicians—not dictated by outdated payer policies. The AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves (DSPN) stands firmly for: ✔️ Patient access to evidence-based care ✔️ Physician autonomy in clinical decision-making ✔️ Alignment of coverage policy with modern spine surgery Read the full position statement and join us in advocating for patient and provider choice: 🔗 spinesection.org/position-state… #DSPN #SpineSurgery #Advocacy #PatientAccess #HealthPolicy #Neurosurgery #PhysicianLeadership @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @CSRS_org @SRS_org @AAOS1 @ISASSorg @KatieOrrico @DrDiGiorgio @cscla @councilsns @CheeragU

Congratulations to Dr. Jack Knightly on being honored with the Distinguished Service Award at the AANS Annual Meeting. A past Chair of the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves (DSPN), Dr. Knightly has been a steadfast leader and advocate for our specialty. His commitment to advancing spine care, championing physician advocacy, and strengthening the voice of neurosurgeons at the national level has left a lasting impact on our section and the patients we serve. From his leadership within DSPN to his broader efforts in policy and advocacy, Dr. Knightly has consistently worked to elevate our field and protect access to high-quality spine care. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and grateful for his continued leadership and service. #AANS2026 #DSPN #Neurosurgery #SpineSurgery #PhysicianLeadership #Advocacy @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @AANSNeuro @AANSpracticeMgt @alisonedye

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity OHSU is offering a CAST-accredited spine fellowship position for: 📍 AY 2027–28 🔎 Explore current listings and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight CAST-accredited spine and peripheral nerve fellowship opportunities with start dates in the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated. #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Fellowship #CAST #NeurosurgeryResident #SpineSection #MedicalEducation @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @JOTooleMD

Spine surgery is challenging work—often unseen and under-recognized—but among the most meaningful in medicine. In his latest Chair’s Message, Luis Manuel Tumialán, MD, reflects on the purpose, responsibility, and impact of caring for patients with spinal disorders. Read the full message at spinesection.org #SpineSection #Neurosurgery #SpineSurgery #Leadership #PatientCare #AANS #CNS #Medicine #SpineCare @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @councilsns

Leadership matters in every arena—including spine care. Join the Regis W. Haid Jr. Leadership Symposium at the AANS Annual Meeting in San Antonio for a unique opportunity to learn from top leaders in spine, business, and beyond. This outstanding program reflects the kind of leadership, innovation, and strategic thinking that helps shape the future of neurosurgery and advances care for our patients. 📍 San Antonio, TX 📅 Friday, May 1 ⏰ 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM #AANS2026 #DSPN #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Leadership #Innovation @CNSResidents @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNS_Update

NEW in @washingtonpost 📰 Restrictions on physician-owned hospitals (POHs) have reduced competition and accelerated consolidation in healthcare. In this timely piece, @RMengerMD highlights why policymakers should revisit these barriers and what Congress can do to expand patient choice. Key points: 📉 Lower costs reported in POHs 🏥 Strong quality and patient satisfaction 🤝 Comparable care for Medicaid and minority patients More competition. Better value. Greater access. Patients deserve the freedom to choose where they receive care. Read more: washingtonpost.com/opinions/2026/… @AANSpracticeMgt @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @councilsns @DrDiGiorgio @RMengerMD

Excited to see so many leaders from the AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves contributing their expertise at International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques 2026 in Toronto. The depth of experience, commitment to education, and willingness to share knowledge is what continues to move spine care forward. From innovation and technique to outcomes and decision-making, these courses reflect the collaborative spirit of our specialty. Proud to see so many AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves leaders helping teach, mentor, and shape the future of spine surgery on an international stage. #IMAST2026 #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Education #Leadership @SRS_org @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @CNS_Update @thejuansuribe

Spine Research Tuesday 🧠🦴 Do patients with elevated BMI have worse patient-reported outcomes after TLIF? In a multi-institutional registry study of 315 TLIF patients, higher BMI was associated with worse baseline PROMIS-10 physical health scores preoperatively. However, after surgery, patients across all BMI groups showed similar improvements in physical and mental health scores at 3 and 12 months. Takeaway: Obesity may affect where patients start—but not how much they improve after TLIF. BMI alone should not be assumed to predict inferior patient-reported recovery. Read more: thejns.org/spine/view/jou… @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents @eapotts @GoodmanCampbell

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity UCLA is offering a CAST-accredited spine fellowship position for: 📍 AY 2026–27 🔎 Explore current listings and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight fellowship opportunities with start dates in the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated! #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Fellowship #CAST #NeurosurgeryResident #SpineSection #MedicalEducation @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity The Ohio State University is offering CAST-accredited spine fellowship positions for: 📍 AY 2026–27 📍 AY 2027–28 🔎 Explore current CAST-accredited fellowships and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight CAST accredited spine and peripheral nerve fellowship opportunities starting within the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated. #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Fellowship #CAST #NeurosurgeryResident #SpineSection #MedicalEducation @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents

Advocacy in action: The DSPN Payer Response Committee Policy decisions increasingly shape how spine care is delivered—impacting everything from coverage decisions and reimbursement to patient access to surgery. The AANS/CNS Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves (DSPN) Payer Response Committee, led by Mark Oppenlander, MD (Chair), plays a central role in this effort—working to evaluate and respond to payer policies that directly affect spine surgeons and their patients. This work is grounded not only in clinical expertise, but in the growing body of spine outcomes research and registry data, ensuring that payer decisions are informed by evidence—not just policy trends. Through coordinated responses, policy engagement, and collaboration across specialties, the committee helps: • Promote access to evidence-based spine care • Align payer policies with clinical reality and outcomes data • Advocate for both patients and practicing spine surgeons Much of this work happens behind the scenes—but its impact is felt every day in clinic and in the operating room. This is just one example of the volunteer-driven advocacy efforts within DSPN. In the coming weeks, we will continue to highlight the work of: • The Payer Response Committee • Coding & Reimbursement initiatives • Broader advocacy and research efforts shaping spine policy All focused on improving care for our patients and supporting our members. Follow along as we take you further inside spine advocacy. #SpineSection #DSPN #SpineAdvocacy #HealthPolicy #Neurosurgery #SpineSurgery #SpineResearch #PhysicianLeadership

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine is offering CAST-accredited spine fellowship positions for: 📍 AY 2026–27 📍 AY 2027–28 🔎 Explore current listings and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight CAST-accredited spine and peripheral nerve fellowship opportunities within the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated. #SpineSurgery #NeurosurgeryResident #FellowshipTraining #CAST #SpineSection @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity The Emory Healthcare Spine Center is offering CAST-accredited spine fellowship positions for: 📍 AY 2026–27 📍 AY 2027–28 🔎 Explore current listings and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight CAST-accredited spine and peripheral nerve fellowship opportunities within the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated. #Neurosurgery #SpineFellowship #CASTFellowship #ResidentEducation #SpineSection @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents

📢 Spine Fellowship Opportunity The Medical College of Wisconsin is offering CAST-accredited spine fellowship positions for: 📍 AY 2026–27 📍 AY 2027–28 🔎 Explore current listings and learn more: SpineSection.org We’ll continue to highlight CAST-accredited spine and peripheral nerve fellowship opportunities within the next 12–18 months—follow along to stay updated. #SpineSurgery #Neurosurgery #Fellowship #CAST #NeurosurgeryResident #SpineSection #MedicalEducation @AANSNeuro @CNSResidents