Dr. Attenello, we appreciate your interview with GS Medical. Your insights and expertise are highly valued. Let’s get started:
Question 1. Could you kindly provide an overview of your career as an independent surgeon in California, highlighting key milestones and experiences that have shaped your professional journey?
Dr. Attenello: I began my journey in orthopedic spine surgery after completing my spine surgery fellowship at UC San Diego. My extensive training there laid the foundation for my career, equipping me with both the technical skillset as well as the knowledge necessary for sound clinical decision making. My early years were pivotal, as they allowed me to hone my surgical techniques, particularly in minimally invasive spine surgeries and some complex deformity reconstructions. I also learned the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing spinal disorders. I carefully incorporated the use of new technology but maintained cost-efficient, quality outcomes that were keeping patients happy. I eventually decided to start my own practice to create a patient experience focused on quality and patient relationships. This was daunting at first, given the limited exposure I had during my training to the challenges of private practice. However, I never lose sight of the reason I went into medicine and that everything I do is centered around the patient and improving outcomes. I truly believe that if you prioritize a patient’s experience, needs and desires, the rewards will come.
Question 2. Since you are an independent spine surgeon, we would like to hear your perspective on the opportunities and challenges of running an independent practice. Could you please share your insights on this matter?
Dr. Attenello: Running an independent spine surgery practice offers a distinctive blend of opportunities and challenges. The opportunities include greater autonomy and flexibility in decision-making and the ability to provide personalized patient care, but success requires adept management of the business aspects of the practice. The most significant benefit for me is the ability to provide personalized patient care. I have the flexibility to spend more time with each patient and ensure their experience is comprehensive and tailored specifically to their needs. I think this is particularly important in spine surgery. Being independent also allows me to quickly implement changes that directly benefit my patients, whether it be restructuring practice policies or adopting new technologies. The ability to build a practice that truly reflects my values and vision is deeply fulfilling. Although the rewards of running an independent spine practice are invaluable, the primary challenge is managing the business side, which includes financial planning, staffing, compliance with healthcare regulations, and navigating the complexities of insurances as well as the competitive and constantly evolving healthcare market. Addressing these challenges is not easy but I have focused on building a strong support team, utilizing efficient practice management software and engaging in continuous professional development. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, maintaining active involvement in professional societies and attending conferences also helps me stay up to date.
Question 3. We are interested in understanding how GS Medical aligns with your practice, especially as an independent surgeon. Could you elaborate how GS Medical’s products and services can enhance your surgical practice and patient care?
Dr. Attenello: GS Medical is an international company with a commitment to innovation and quality. Their focus on surgeon driven technology aligns with my practice goals to provide quality patient care. The more personalized support provided for their implants is also consistent and reliable, and the company is responsive to feedback on opportunities for improvements or customization. The company is small but poised for growth.
Question 4. Drawing from your experiences, could you describe the distinctive advantages offered by the Pulsar Expandable Cage in comparison to other Expandable Cage Systems you may have previously utilized in your surgical procedures?
Dr. Attenello: While I’ve used various different expandable cage systems, including the Pulsar Expandable Cage, each has its unique features and advantages, and each system has its nuances that can be leveraged in different contexts. One of the unique aspects of the Pulsar system is its trapezoidal metric thread which may allow for superior frictional fit which may decrease back out of the cage during expansion. The Pulsar system been reliable and effective for me. Other features of the cage include a small insertion height for ease of insertion, a variety of footprint and lordosis options, and the titanium makeup which may provide structural rigidity and biocompatibility compared to composite cages. The expansion mechanism allows for gradual height restoration and the instrument used to insert the cage also serves to expand it and allow for post packing.