HSS Presents

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matthew Conti speaks with Dr. Harry Agress Jr., a nationally recognized speaker, author, and retirement enthusiast who spent 36 years as a diagnostic radiologist and nuclear medicine physician. Together, they explore how physicians and other healthcare professionals can successfully navigate the transition into retirement. Dr. Agress discusses why leaving clinical practice can be especially challenging when identity and purpose have long been tied to medicine, and shares practical strategies for preparing for this major life transition. The conversation highlights the value of self-reflection, discovering new sources of fulfillment, and embracing opportunities...

In this episode of HSS Presents, David M. Dines, MD, an attending orthopedic surgeon on the Sports and Shoulder Service at HSS and professor of orthopedic surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, speaks with HSS colleagues Lawrence V. Gulotta, MD, and Joshua S. Dines, MD, about shoulder injuries in overhead athletes. They examine how injury patterns and treatment demands differ among baseball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, and lacrosse athletes, with a focus on the adaptations and pathologies commonly seen in throwers. The discussion explores internal impingement, microinstability, labral and rotator cuff injuries, eccentric muscle injuries, and the importance of evaluating...

In this episode of HSS Presents, radiologist Dr. Harry G. Greditzer IV speaks with Dr. Hollis G. Potter, MD, Chair of Radiology and Imaging at Hospital for Special Surgery and holder of the Coleman Chair in MRI Research, about the evolution of musculoskeletal MRI and its transformative impact on orthopedic care. Together, they explore the early days of MRI at HSS, advances in cartilage imaging, metal artifact reduction, and innovations that have improved diagnostic accuracy and patient care. Dr. Potter also discusses the importance of collaboration between radiologists and surgeons, the role of mentorship in advancing the field, and...

In this episode of HSS Presents, radiologist Dr. Harry G. Greditzer IV speaks with Dr. Andrew D. Pearle, Chief Emeritus of the Sports Medicine Institute at HSS, about the evolution of computer-assisted surgery and the emerging role of digital twins in orthopedics. Dr. Pearle explains how patient-specific MRI models, computational biomechanics, and additional data inputs may help clinicians assess ACL-injury risk, simulate surgical approaches, and personalize treatment planning. The conversation highlights neuromuscular training—a combination of strength, agility, plyometric, and landing-stabilization exercises—as an important strategy for reducing injuries among young athletes. Looking ahead, they also discuss how digital twin...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Scott Rodeo, Director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine at HSS, talks with sports medicine surgeon Dr. Yianni Apostolakos about the massive public interest and clinical realities surrounding Body Protection Compound 157 (BPC-157). Prompted by a widely read systematic review, the experts contrast promising preclinical animal data with the current lack of robust, human clinical trials. They discuss the shifting regulatory landscape—including recent FDA updates on compounding restrictions—and explain why these substances remain banned by WADA and major sports leagues. This conversation provides evidence for clinicians looking to ethically counsel both elite...

In this episode of HSS Presents, host Dr. James Robinson is joined by sports medicine physician Dr. Ashley Austin to debunk common myths surrounding exercise during pregnancy. Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experience, Dr. Austin explains why outdated advice to simply "do less" is being replaced by evidence-based recommendations highlighting the benefits of combined aerobic and strength training. The conversation explores practical modifications using perceived exertion instead of heart rate, the safety of continued core and resistance training, and critical warning signs to monitor. Highlighting specialized resources like the HSS Perinatal Wellness Center, this episode is an...

Why is Tommy John surgery suddenly everywhere, even among 11-year-olds? On this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Josh Dines, sports medicine specialist Dr. James "Beamer" Carr, and physical therapist Terrance Sgroi dig into the UCL injury epidemic fueled by baseball's obsession with velocity, and how they diagnose it using exam techniques and the elbow-stressing "FEVER" MRI view. They break down when surgery is truly necessary versus when conservative treatment has a real shot, plus the murky world of PRP and stem cells. They cover the evolution of the surgery itself, from Frank Jobe's original 1974 procedure to today's...

In this episode of HSS Presents, residents Dr. Mark Megerian and Dr. Austin Kaidi host an insightful conversation with HSS orthopedic trauma surgeon Dr. Aleksey Dvorzhinskiy to explore the vital role of mentorship in surgical training. Dr. Dvorzhinskiy reflects on the ideological frameworks passed down by his own influential mentors, focusing on the core pillars of being morally incorruptible, pursuing technical excellence, and suppressing ego in the operating room. The panel dives into the nuances of surgical instruction, discussing how effective mentors distinguish between "tough love" and encouragement based on a resident's intrinsic motivation. Blending perspectives from a junior...

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic resident Dr. Tyler Khilnani sits down with Dr. Samuel A. Taylor, a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon at HSS and associate team physician for the New York Giants. Drawing from his own background as a former Harvard varsity football player, Dr. Taylor pulls back the curtain on the intense, year-round responsibilities of caring for elite athletes. From navigating the high-stakes environment of the NFL Combine to managing evolving game-day injuries on the sidelines, he highlights the critical role of communication in a multidisciplinary sports medicine team. Ultimately, Dr. Taylor discusses the balancing act...

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgery resident Dr. Mark Megerian sits down with Dr. Mark Figgie, a hip and knee replacement surgeon who has spent four decades at HSS advising residents, fellows, and attendings as they transition to practice. Dr. Figgie shares practical guidance on evaluating a first job, from leveraging the HSS alumni network and vetting potential partners to reading the fine print on buy-in structures, non-compete clauses, and malpractice tail coverage. They also discuss how to negotiate for specific technology, approach salary conversations without alienating a prospective employer, and weigh private versus academic career paths.<...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter Sculco sits down with colleague Dr. Alberto Carli, a specialist in hip and knee arthroplasty and infection, to discuss the current state and future of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). They cover the evolving diagnostic landscape, indications for DAIR versus implant removal, and the key elements of a high-quality debridement, including antiseptic solutions and the growing role of intraosseous vancomycin. For surgeons managing these challenging cases or looking to standardize their infection protocol, this is essential listening.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Evelyn Murphy joins Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch to discuss a complex case involving a quadrilateral amputee seeking mobility solutions after post-sepsis limb loss; the case was published in the March 2026 issue of "Grand Rounds from HSS: Management of Complex Cases." The discussion highlights the potential of osseointegration limb replacement for patients struggling with traditional socket fit, short residual limbs, and poor soft tissue envelopes. Dr. Rozbruch details the patient selection process, a multi-phase rehabilitation protocol involving gradual loading, and the improvements in proprioception and daily endurance. Touching on surgical innovations like custom 3...

This podcast was originally broadcast on and is the intellectual property of The AOFAS Orthopod-Cast. In this episode of the AOFAS Orthopod-Cast, co-hosts Dr. Matthew Conti and Dr. Joseph Park sit down with Dr. Martin O'Malley to investigate the alarming spike in Achilles tendon ruptures among NBA players. The group explores the impact of single-sport specialization and year-round training on tendon health, while debating the merits of operative versus non-operative care for elite and recreational athletes. Dr. O'Malley shares his rationale for preferring open surgical repair to maximize tension and outlines his specific rehab protocols, including the use of...

Chronic pain that doesn't respond to medications or surgery can feel like a dead end, but for some patients, spinal cord stimulation offers a path forward. In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jeffrey Ciccone sits down with pain specialists Dr. Seth Waldman and Dr. Vladimir Kramskiy to break down how neurostimulation works, who it's right for, and what the latest science says about targeting the dorsal column versus the dorsal root ganglion. From the gate control theory of the 1960s to today's burst and high-frequency waveforms, they explore both the promise and the honest limitations of this evolving...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jeffrey Ciccone sits down with Dr. Heidi Prather to explore the vital difference between lifespan (how long you live) and healthspan (how long you stay healthy). As the founder of the HSS Lifestyle Medicine Program, Dr. Prather breaks down the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle—including nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management—and how they reduce harmful inflammation in the body. The conversation explains how everyday habits can help treat joint pain, reverse type 2 diabetes, and help patients recover faster and safer from surgery. With practical advice on tracking your health and...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Matt Conti sits down with Dr. A. Holly Johnson to discuss the rapid progress and clinical benefits of minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery. The conversation explores how percutaneous techniques utilizing specialized burrs lead to smaller incisions, reduced soft tissue damage, and significantly faster recovery times for patients. Dr. Johnson candidly shares her own learning curve and highlights the most impactful minimally invasive procedures in her practice, from calcaneal osteotomies to bunion corrections and first MTP fusions. Balancing enthusiasm with caution, the experts also debate the complexities of the MIS Lapidus and...

In this episode, interventional spine physician Dr. Abhishek Gupta and spine surgeon Dr. Matthew Cunningham team up to tackle the tricky diagnosis and management of axial low back pain. They break down how to spot the differences between muscle issues, disc problems, and facet joint pain, using simple clues like whether a patient hurts more while standing or sitting. The duo also chats about why MRIs don't always tell the whole story and why diagnostic blocks can be a game-changer for pinpointing the source of pain. From conservative rehab and radiofrequency ablation to surgery, they outline a collaborative approach...

In this episode of HSS Presents, physical therapist Snehal Patel sits down with Dr. Riley Williams, Chief of the Sports Medicine Institute at HSS, and Michael Chronert from DARI Motion to talk about the future of motion capture in patient care. They discuss how DARI’s AI-driven tech is changing the game by offering a quick, markerless way to analyze movement without needing a full biomechanics lab. Dr. Williams explains how swapping manual exams for this kind of objective data—measuring things like limb symmetry and loading—leads to smarter "return to sport" decisions. It’s a great look at how t...

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Peter K. Sculco sits down with Dr. Fernando Quevedo-González, PhD, to demystify the world of computational modeling and its transformative impact on joint reconstruction. They explore how technologies like finite element analysis allow researchers to break down complex physics into manageable pieces to predict how implants will interact with a patient's unique bone structure. The discussion highlights a future where AI-driven solvers and data from wearable tech could provide surgeons with real-time guidance on the optimal alignment and fixation for every individual. This episode is a must-listen for surgeons a...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Carlo Milani is joined by occupational hand therapist Dr. Aviva Wolff to uncover the unique musculoskeletal demands placed on musicians. The discussion challenges the traditional medical approach to vague overuse injuries, advocating instead for a holistic framework that treats musicians as high-performance athletes. From analyzing the biomechanics of instrument positioning to "micro-dosing" rest and correcting scapular instability, Dr. Wolff shares her evidence-based strategies for prevention and longevity. Ideal for providers and performers alike, this episode provides a roadmap for managing the intense physical endurance required for a life in music.

In this episode of HSS Presents, rheumatologist Dr. Caroline Siegel is joined by HSS colleagues Dr. Lisa Sammaritano and Dr. Jane Salmon to discuss managing pregnancy for patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. They emphasize that most patients have successful pregnancies, but conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) carry greater risks, including preeclampsia and placental insufficiency. Successful outcomes rely on preconception planning, which includes achieving quiescent disease for about six months on pregnancy-compatible medications and screening for antibodies. Dr. Salmon also shares exciting clinical trial results using a TNF inhibitor to improve pregnancy outcomes in high-risk...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Melody Hrubes, the medical director of the HSS Performing Arts Collaborative, speaks with physical therapist Alyson Mackay about specialized assessment and treatment for dancers. They utilize DARI (Dynamic Athlete Research Institute), a marker-free 3D motion capture analysis, to assess strength and movement patterns in functional and dance-specific movements. Other specialized tools include force plates for measuring even weight-bearing during jumps and the Kinvent dynamometer for objective strength assessments like the hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio. The episode highlights injury prevention, the value of cross-training (like Pilates), and specialized concussion goggles to guide return-to-turn and dance...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Josh Bram speaks with orthopedic surgeons Dr. Peter Fabricant and Dr. Daniel Green about ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature athletes. They explain why traditional techniques risk growth plate injury and discuss specialized physeal-sparing procedures, including the modified MacIntosh IT band technique and all-epiphyseal reconstructions. The conversation highlights patient selection, imaging strategies, and graft choices that reduce re-injury rates while protecting long-term knee health. With insights from large multicenter studies and decades of pediatric sports medicine experience, the experts share best practices for safely returning young athletes to play.

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic resident Dr. Austin Kaidi speaks with sports medicine physician Dr. Jordan Metzl about using social media to authentically market a medical practice. Dr. Metzl traces his journey from early digital outreach to building the IronStrength community and offers insights on developing a credible online presence, engaging patients responsibly, and balancing traditional and digital media. The discussion covers professionalism, authenticity, and the risks of oversharing or product endorsement. Listeners will learn how young physicians can use social platforms to share evidence-based messages, build community, and strengthen their personal and professional brands.

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Gausden joins host Dr. Joshua Bram to discuss navigating work–life balance as a young attending. Drawing from her own experiences balancing an active surgical practice and raising two young children, Dr. Gausden shares candid insights on boundary-setting, time management, and the importance of supportive teams both at work and home. She also reflects on timing family life during training, integrating travel and professional development, and redefining “balance” as a dynamic process rather than a fixed goal. This conversation offers realistic, encouraging advice for early-career surgeons and trainees building sustai...

In this episode of HSS Presents, anesthesiologist Dr. Jeffrey Ciccone speaks with physiatrist and pain management specialist Dr. Faye Rim about preventing the transition from acute to chronic pain after surgery. They explore risk factors such as inflammation, central sensitization, opioid tolerance, and psychosocial influences, while highlighting the importance of proactive screening and multimodal pain strategies. Dr. Rim shares how HSS’s transitional pain service identifies high-risk patients, coordinates perioperative care, and incorporates novel therapies—including ketamine infusions, nerve catheters, and new sodium channel blockers. The conversation emphasizes early intervention, individualized treatment, and system-level changes to improve recovery and redu...

In this episode of HSS Presents, rheumatologist Dr. Anne Bass is joined by Dr. Deanna Jannat-Khah of HSS and Dr. Michael Postow of Memorial Sloan Kettering to explore immune checkpoint inhibitor–induced arthritis. They discuss how life-saving immunotherapies for cancer can trigger inflammatory joint disease, the challenges of balancing tumor control with autoimmune toxicity, and the latest evidence on safe use of steroids and biologics. The panel also highlights ongoing research into mechanisms, phenotypes, and long-term outcomes, underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary care for cancer patients who develop musculoskeletal complications from immunotherapy.

In this episode of HSS Presents, rheumatologist Dr. Genna Braverman hosts a conversation with Dr. Arthur Yee and cardiologists Dr. Evelyn Horn and Dr. Irina Sobol on the interplay between the heart and rheumatic diseases. They discuss how conditions like sarcoidosis and scleroderma can affect the myocardium, valves, conduction system, and pulmonary vasculature—leading to heart failure, arrhythmias, and pulmonary hypertension. The panel highlights advances in imaging, from cardiac MRI to PET scans, and evolving treatments that combine immunosuppression, device therapy, and guideline-directed cardiac care. With insights into the new Cardio-Rheumatology Program at HSS and Weill Cornell, listeners will he...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jessica Heyer is joined by Drs. Shevaun Doyle and Emily Dodwell to explore the diagnosis and management of pediatric physeal and transitional ankle fractures. The team unpacks the unique growth plate closure patterns that give rise to triplane and Tillaux fractures, emphasizing the importance of advanced imaging and early intervention. They discuss surgical approaches, fixation strategies, and the nuances of treating medial malleolar involvement while balancing risks such as growth disturbances and long-term joint health. Packed with clinical insights and practical pearls, this episode is a must-listen for pediatric orthopedic surgeons navigating...

In this episode of HSS Presents, physical therapist Joe Molony is joined by pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Peter D. Fabricant, MD, MPH to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of common knee injuries in young athletes, including osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), tibial spine avulsion fractures, and ACL injuries. Dr. Fabricant shares insights into the nuances of managing OCD—from early symptom recognition and non-operative strategies to surgical decision-making and long-term outcomes. The conversation also covers the evolving approach to pediatric ACL reconstruction, including growth-sparing techniques, lateral augmentation, and the role of biologics. With practical takeaways for clinicians and families alike, this ep...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Samuel A. Taylor leads a dynamic roundtable with Drs. Christopher Brusalis, Michael Fu, and Chris Wilhelm, diving into the complex world of massive rotator cuff tears. The panel examines the nuances of diagnosing and treating these injuries, stressing the importance of patient-specific goals over blanket surgical approaches. From evaluating pseudo-paralysis to choosing between SCR, balloon spacers, and reverse arthroplasty, the discussion highlights cutting-edge strategies in rotator cuff management. With clinical anecdotes and lively debate, this episode offers practical pearls and a thoughtful approach to treating one of shoulder surgery's most debated challenges.<...

In this episode of HSS Presents, pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shevaun Doyle is joined by pediatric physical therapist Dr. Magdalena Oledzka to explore congenital muscular torticollis (CMT)—a common condition in infants that, if left untreated, can lead to head tilting, facial asymmetry, and developmental delays. They discuss the early signs and causes of CMT, emphasize the importance of timely intervention, and share practical physical therapy strategies. The conversation also covers how to support families with home-based routines, when to consider further evaluation or surgical referral, and long-term outcomes. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Tyler Mange, MD dives into the modern management of clubfoot in children with pediatric orthopedic surgeons Dr. Shevaun Doyle, MD and Dr. David Scher, MD. They explore the evolution and global adoption of the Ponseti Method, a non-surgical treatment approach that has revolutionized care for this common pediatric foot deformity. Listeners will learn about the critical role of early diagnosis, the importance of prenatal counseling, hands-on casting techniques, and long-term bracing strategies. The episode also covers practical tips for healthcare providers and families, common treatment pitfalls, and why mentorship and patient education a...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter Sculco, MD, sits down with Dr. Amar S. Ranawat, MD, to talk about the future of robotics in revision joint surgery. With decades of experience in complex hip and knee revisions, Dr. Ranawat shares why he continues to rely on manual techniques and outlines the key principles behind successful outcomes. They discuss the current limitations of robotic systems in revision cases, the importance of restoring the joint line, and the critical role of expert surgical teams. The episode also looks ahead to emerging technologies, from AI-driven planning to smarter robotic tools...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Bella Mehta, MD, joins Dr. S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, to discuss the growing impact of artificial intelligence in rheumatology. A leading voice in the field, Dr. Mehta shares how tools like machine learning, large language models, and computer vision are already streamlining clinical workflows, accelerating research, and offering new ways to analyze complex data. She highlights practical applications in documentation, billing, diagnostic support, and qualitative analysis, while also exploring the potential of “glass box” models to improve transparency and trust in predictive analytics. The episode also touches on emerging concepts like...

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Mary “Peggy” Crow hosts a compelling discussion with Drs. Kyriakos Kirou and Robert Spiera on cutting-edge cellular therapies transforming the treatment of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The panel delves into the science and clinical promise of CAR T-cell therapy and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs), exploring how these oncology-derived approaches are being applied to conditions like lupus, scleroderma, myositis, and ANCA-associated vasculitis. They discuss the mechanisms of action, safety considerations, and patient selection, while also highlighting the goal of achieving long-term, drug-free remission through immune system “reset.” This thought-provoking episode offers a glimpse into the futu...

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...

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 maneuv...

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...

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, an...