5-Minute Summary: The Potential Elimination of Blood Transfusions in Lumbar Spine Fusion Surgery: Clinical Case Series of 620 Consecutive Minimally Invasive TLIF Surgeries and Review of the Literature

5-Minute Summary: The Potential Elimination of Blood Transfusions in Lumbar Spine Fusion Surgery: Clinical Case Series of 620 Consecutive Minimally Invasive TLIF Surgeries and Review of the Literature

Lumbar spine fusion is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the operative management of adult degenerative spine disorders. The dual incision, mini-open TLIF surgery uses a minimally invasive surgical technique that decompresses neural elements through placement of an anterior interbody disc spacer and posterior stabilization with pedicle screws.

5-Minute Summary: “In My Experience…Seven Strategies for Enhancing ASC Profitability”

rofit margins for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) can vary significantly. Top decile ASCs have EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation allowance) profit margins exceeding 40% [https://www.beckersasc.com/asc-news/top-ascs-make-more-than-40-profit.html], while those in the bottom quartile struggle with EBITDA margins below 15%. Increasing ASC profitability is more important than ever for surgeons as the ASC income can help offset reductions in their earnings due to decreasing or stagnant payment rates combined with rising practice costs.

Assessing the Utility of Pedometer Data in Predicting Spine Surgery Outcomes: A Scoping Review of Clinical Progress

Pedometer data has been historically used as a metric of early mobilization and functional recovery after spine surgery. Wearable pedometers augment traditional patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after spine surgery.

5-Minute Summary: Retained bioburden does not pose contamination risk after a full sterile processing cycle

After sterile processing, orthopedic instrument trays are occasionally found to have retained bone from prior procedures. This study aims to assess the effect on heavily contaminated bioburden, adjacent tray, and instrument contamination risk of a standard medical facility sterile processing cycle for orthopedic instruments.

Off-Grid Augmented Reality as a Method for First-Time Performance of Orthopaedic Procedures by Novice Medical Learners in a Rural Environment

Orthopaedic care is limited in rural U.S. regions and globally. While telemedicine has improved access, barriers remain when clinicians must perform orthopaedic procedures without prior experience or in-person guidance. Off-grid augmented reality (AR) offers real-time visual feedback and support, potentially expanding orthopaedic care in underserved areas.