The 26-year-old likely will not return in 2024 post-surgery, which will cost both the player and organization meaningful games down the stretch.

"The majority of thumb fractures do not require surgery," said John Dowdle, MD, hand and upper extremity surgeon at HSS. "When surgery is indicated, there is typically greater fracture displacement, instability, or involvement of the joint surface of the bone. Surgery allows accurate fracture alignment and fixation, so the bone heals in proper position which minimizes the risk of post-traumatic arthritis and deformity.

“Thumb fractures treated surgically typically take six weeks to heal before resuming normal activities. Sometimes a protective splint is needed for high-risk activities for a bit longer. Occasionally there is some mild stiffness after healing, but it rarely interferes with activities including sports and he should certainly be ready for spring training,” Dr. Dowdle continued. 

Read the full article at si.com. 

Additional coverage: 

MSN.com.

Yardbarker.com. 

John Dowdle, MD, hand and upper extremity surgeon at HSS says for some people, arthritis pain and stiffness comes and goes and an occasional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug will keep them comfortable.

Braces or splints can also be helpful. While these can be purchased over the counter, Dr. Dowdle recommends consulting a hand specialist before you invest in one because some are more effective than others and it depends on your specific needs.

In addition, Dr. Dowdle recommends at-home paraffin baths to people with arthritis in their hands. 

Read the full article at goodhousekeeping.com

"There are so many variables when it comes to back pain," said Dr. Dowdell. "How it can be treated depends on what's causing it. Ultimately, some types of back pain can be helped with surgery, and some can't."

Consider stretches for upper back pain as well. HSS recommends stretches such as a trunk rotation, a slouch overcorrection stretch, and a standing lumbar extension.

Read the full article at consumer.healthday.com. 

In the field of medicine, technological advances lead to new and better treatments, more personalized care, increased efficiency and improvements in safety. Such innovations have been a boon to orthopedic surgery, as engineers, scientists and inventors design systems to improve accuracy and safety in the operating room. As technologies evolve and studies demonstrate the benefits, increasing numbers of orthopedic surgeons are using robotics, computer navigation, augmented reality and smart sensors to improve patient care.

According to Dr. Dowdell, in spine surgery, surgical robots, advanced imaging technology and computer-assisted navigation provide enhanced precision, accuracy and predictability. “The system enables the surgeon to make very small incisions that preserve muscles and other structures surrounding the spine, so patients generally experience less pain after surgery, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to activities compared to traditional open surgery.” 

The technologies are especially useful for more challenging cases—patients whose anatomy differs from the norm— according to Dr. Sokunbi. He advised anyone considering spine surgery to carefully check the physician’s credentials and choose a hospital in which a high number of spine surgeries are performed. He noted that a good rapport with the treating physician, good communication and trust are also essential.

Dr. Vigdorchik performed the first knee replacement using augmented reality (AR) in the US in 2020, stating “It’s like a car that has the speedometer projected on the windshield, so you don’t have to look down when you’re driving.” Taking the car analogy one step further, he compared the AR knee replacement platform to GPS. “Everyone knows how to drive home, but you use GPS technology to find the best and most efficient route to take. Dr. Vigdorchik added that the augmented reality platform allows for an ultraprecise surgery.

HSS spine surgeons have also begun to use augmented reality technology. The spine system consists of a headset and the elements of a traditional computer navigation system. During surgery, it accurately determines the position of surgical instruments in real time and superimposes them on the patient’s CT scan. “The technology allows us to visualize the patient’s 3D spinal anatomy during surgery to accurately guide instruments and place surgical implants, such as pedicle screws, while looking directly at the patient rather than at a separate computer screen,” explained Dr. Cammisa “Improved control and visualization of the patient’s anatomy and critical structures can lead to a more precise, efficient surgery and can enhance safety.”

An innovation in the growing field of remote patient monitoring, it was the first implantable device approved to collect data on an individual’s progress after a knee replacement. Although the technology does not preclude office visits altogether, it enables the doctor to actively monitor a patient’s recovery with real-world, objective data to supplement his or her care. and recovery. Remote monitoring can be especially useful during the early post-operative period, said Dr. Sculco, who performed the first procedure at HSS. “In the first several weeks following knee replacement, hard work is required from the patient. The earlier you identify a patient who may not be progressing as well as you would like, the sooner you can intervene,” he explained.

Read the full article at autumnyearsmag.com.

Dr. Dowdell noted, “AI and machine learning will drive better outcomes in spine surgery within the next 10 years. The most difficult aspect of spine surgery is deciding on the correct operation for the correct patient. There are many variables at play that determine a successful surgical outcome for a patient. AI/machine learning will use these variables to help support our surgical decision making. Reducing the variability in decision making will help drive better patient outcomes, reduce complications, and reduce healthcare spending.”

Read the full article at Beckersspine.com.

Dr. Dowdell explained, “This hump typically affects the area of the spine called the upper thoracic spine. When you have this condition, your head appears to jut forward because the upper thoracic spine has an excessive curvature.”

Dr. Dowdell said the number one cause of the hump is bad posture. “Unfortunately, this becomes a chicken and egg scenario as bad posture places more pressure on the spine, which can cause worsening of the curvature which further reinforces the existing bad posture,” he added.

Lifestyle changes can help supplement a treatment plan. Dr. Dowdell recommended physical activity, a back brace for advanced cases, anti-inflammatory medication if the pain is significant, and treatment of underlying conditions. “This is also important to prevent further worsening–osteoporosis is the major condition that can worsen kyphosis if untreated,” he noted.

Practicing proper posture is also key. Dr. Dowdell explained, “This prevents further stress being placed on your spine, decreasing the likelihood of degeneration and worsening of your hump. For every inch forward your head juts, your spine sees 10 pounds of extra force.”

Read the full article at Parade.com.

The pain that Mr. Nestler experienced as a result of a bone spur pressing on his spine was mostly felt in his foot. Dr. Dowdell explained, “It’s not uncommon for a lower back problem to masquerade as a hip, knee or ankle problem.”

Mr. Nestler benefited from the latest innovations in spine surgery: robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery and computer navigation. Advances in surgical techniques and technology allow for a more precise and targeted surgery, according to Dr. Dowdell.

“The use of very small incisions preserves muscles and other structures surrounding the spine, so patients generally experience less pain after surgery, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to activities compared to traditional open surgery,” he noted.

Since the surgery, Mr. Nestler is now pain-free and back to participating in many of his favorite activities.

Darren R. Lebl, MD, MBA, spine surgeon at HSS who has conducted studies on the new robotic technologies, said, “The use of a robotic arm, along with 3D imaging and navigation technology similar to GPS, allow for pinpoint accuracy in the placement of hardware, enhancing the accuracy and predictability of the surgery.”

This article appeared in the Fall 2021 print edition and online at Omagdigital.com.