Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Dr. Scott L. Blumenthal, Spine Surgeon at Texas Back Institute
5 snips
Nov 28, 2025 Dr. Scott L. Blumenthal, a seasoned orthopedic spine surgeon and leader at the Texas Back Institute, dives into the latest in disc replacement techniques and research. He discusses the impressive longevity of these procedures compared to traditional surgeries like hip and knee replacements. Blumenthal reveals the challenges posed by private insurance barriers that hinder patient access to innovative care. He also predicts significant disruptions in spine surgery by 2026, especially regarding technology restrictions, while highlighting the emerging trends of robotics and AI in the field.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Patient Demand Drives Motion Preservation
- Patients increasingly prefer motion-preserving disc replacement over fusion due to negative fusion stories and demand for alternatives.
- Existing data for cervical and lumbar disc replacement is favorable, supporting expanded use.
Low Revision Rates Comparable To Hips And Knees
- Texas Back Institute studied long-term revision rates and found cervical and lumbar disc revisions around 1.5%.
- That revision rate compares favorably to hip and knee replacements and supports disc replacement durability.
Some Revisions Can Keep Motion With Disc-to-Disc
- Dr. Scott L. Blumenthal described research finding that one-fourth to one-third of cervical revision cases can be revised disc-to-disc.
- He contrasted this with the assumption that revision always requires conversion to fusion.