AHF Podcast

Filling, Crown or Implant? The Case for Hip Resurfacing

JVO Media — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Hip resurfacing never went away; it went quiet. Paul Beaulé of The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa explains what really failed in the metal-on-metal era, who should get a resurfacing today, and how he does it through the anterior approach.

Paul has offered resurfacing for a quarter of a century, since his fellowship with Harlan Amstutz in Los Angeles, and today it makes up about 30% of a practice that also covers hip preservation and total hip arthroplasty. He separates resurfacing from the large-head metal-on-metal total hips that dragged it down, explains what the registries caught early and what they missed, and argues that a new implant should change one thing at a time.

From there it gets practical: which patients he offers a resurfacing and which he steers toward a total hip, the dental analogy he uses to explain the choice (filling, crown or implant), and what five-year data on ceramic-on-ceramic resurfacing show for women and smaller femoral heads. On the anterior approach, he walks through femoral exposure on a positioning table with no posterior capsular release, and explains why he now blames notching of the anterior femoral neck and off-center pin placement, more than blood supply, for early neck fractures. Paul discloses that he is a designer of a ceramic-on-ceramic resurfacing implant.

He also takes on the skeptics' strongest objections, from "total hip is good enough" to revision difficulty and surgeon volume, and names the one he takes most seriously: how much acetabular bone the cup removes. For hip surgeons deciding whether resurfacing belongs in their practice, and for anyone who wants to know where it fits next to hip preservation and total hip arthroplasty.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: hip resurfacing's second act
01:25 Learning hip resurfacing with Harlan Amstutz
04:57 What really went wrong in the metal-on-metal era
07:22 Hip registries and lessons for new implants
11:48 Follow-up for well-functioning metal-on-metal hips
13:36 The ideal hip resurfacing patient today
15:43 Who should not get a hip resurfacing
18:29 Resurfacing vs total hip: the dental analogy
20:11 Ceramic-on-ceramic resurfacing bearings
23:53 Evidence on ceramic bearings: noise, women, small heads
29:05 Red flags that would end a new resurfacing design
30:22 Hip resurfacing through the anterior approach
34:25 Femoral exposure in anterior approach resurfacing
37:44 How the anterior approach lowers neck fracture risk
42:20 Answering the skeptics of hip resurfacing
46:03 Acetabular bone stock: the strongest objection
48:19 Where hip resurfacing goes in the next decade
51:06 Advice for surgeons learning hip resurfacing

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AHFPodcast #AnteriorHipFoundation #HipResurfacing #PaulBeaule #AnteriorApproach #HipArthroplasty #MetalOnMetal #CeramicOnCeramic #HipPreservation #FemoralNeckFracture #PatientSelection #OttawaHospital

The View From Outside the US (2026 Traveling Fellows - Ep 3)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0400

A Toronto hip surgeon on what two weeks in the operating rooms of leading US anterior hip surgeons changed in his own practice, and what American hospitals could learn from Canada.

For hip surgeons weighing the AHF Traveling Fellowship, and for anyone working to make anterior approach care more efficient inside a hospital system.

This is the third and final conversation with the 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows. Host Joe Schwab sits down with Justin Chang, an adult hip and knee surgeon at Humber River Hospital in Toronto who trained at St George's, University of London, and the University of Toronto. Trained in the posterior approach, he switched to the anterior approach when he started practice and now uses it for 95 percent of his hips. He joined the fellowship to build confidence with complex and revision cases.

What he brought home started in the OR: hooking a cobra retractor on the Hana table's ladder, trading a Charnley for a Gelpi, nail conversions in Houston, complex revisions at OrthoCarolina, and the soft tissue restraint that separates good anterior surgeons from masters. The bigger lessons came from around the surgery: sterilization and tray flow, OR time tracking, PA-supported teams, and how a high-volume surgeon stays present with every patient. He also makes the case that a generation trained almost exclusively in the anterior approach will need to do its hardest revisions from the front, and explains why he expects hip resurfacing to make a comeback.

Coming from a fee-for-service system where two weeks away means two weeks without income, he is candid about the cost, and about why the network of host surgeons and co-fellows he built was worth it. Asked what American surgeons could learn from Canada, his answer is efficiency: how Humber River runs an efficient anterior hip workflow inside a public hospital.

Thinking about applying for the 2027 AHF Traveling Fellowship? Applications run through the Anterior Hip Foundation, linked below.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet 2026 AHF Traveling Fellow Justin Chang
02:27 Switching from posterior to anterior approach
03:55 What the fellowship teaches beyond surgical technique
07:43 Anterior approach retractor tips and Hana table tricks
10:50 Nail conversion and complex revision via anterior approach
13:20 Why young surgeons will revise through the anterior approach
16:41 Anterior hip surgery in the US vs Canada
18:29 What US hospitals can learn from Canada about efficiency
19:32 Soft tissue handling and what surgical mastery looks like
21:35 How master surgeons communicate with patients at high volume
23:36 Bringing home OR time tracking, OrthoGrid, and PA teams
26:22 Is the AHF Traveling Fellowship worth two weeks away?
30:18 Future of anterior hip surgery: revisions and resurfacing
32:09 Advice for future fellows: practice building and marketing
33:45 The biggest takeaway that wasn't a technique

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast

#TravelingFellowship #AnteriorApproach #AnteriorHip #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #RevisionTHA #HipResurfacing #HospitalEfficiency #OrthopedicSurgery #SurgicalMentorship #JustinChang

Managing Intraoperative and Early Complications (S+N Surgeon Roundtable)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Every hip surgeon will eventually crack a calcar or fracture a femur — what separates a manageable complication from a cascade is what happens next.

Three hip surgeons walk through intraoperative and early complications after anterior approach total hip replacement, from the first broach to the first weeks at home.

Complications come with hip arthroplasty, and the anterior approach has its own: femoral fractures and calcar cracks during broaching and seating, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve symptoms, bleeding that degrades visualization, and the wound and infection questions that surface in the first days after discharge. In this roundtable, Alex Gaukhman, Molly Hartzler, and Stephen Duncan talk through where those problems really start and how they handle them when they happen.

The conversation stays practical. Exposure is the root of most femoral injuries, and they explain how they adapt to tight and wide canals with diaphyseal reaming and stem choice, where automated impaction makes seating more reproducible, when a calcar crack needs only a cerclage cable and when it calls for a diaphyseal-engaging stem — and why cementing a cementless stem is never the fix. On the soft-tissue side, they cover protecting the TFL and the LFCN, targeted hemostasis, and when to stop, pull the retractors, and reset rather than push through.

After surgery, they work through an early dislocation, the role of navigation, incisional negative pressure therapy, and how nurse navigators, patient photos, and checklists catch problems before they are delayed. This one is for arthroplasty surgeons, fellows, and residents — especially anyone still on the anterior approach learning curve. It closes with the complication lesson each surgeon learned the hard way, and what still deserves humility every time they step into the OR.

Brought to you by Smith+Nephew — Life Unlimited. The CORI Surgical System, CORIOGRAPH Pre-Op Planning, and the CATALYSTEM Primary Hip System together offer a complete solution for primary total hip arthroplasty.

https://www.smithandnephew.com

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: intraoperative and early hip complications
02:17 What turns a hip complication into a cascade
05:04 Femoral fractures and calcar cracks start with exposure
08:08 Dorr A vs Dorr C femurs: reaming and stem choice
11:27 Broaching dense canals and automated impaction
14:02 Managing an intraoperative calcar crack or femoral fracture
18:26 Protecting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve
21:48 Hemostasis, visualization, and when to stop and reset
27:44 Early dislocation after hip replacement and navigation
31:22 Preventing wound complications and incisional wound vacs
35:18 Early infection after hip replacement: when to escalate
38:10 Checklists and nurse navigators that catch problems early
41:08 Escalation triggers and when to bring in help
44:53 Complication lessons that shaped their careers

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast

#HipComplications #PeriprostheticFracture #CalcarFracture #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #LFCN #PJI #AutomatedImpaction #AlexGaukhman #MollyHartzler #StephenDuncan

The Part Nobody Can Teach You (2026 Traveling Fellows - Ep 2)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Three 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows on what two weeks in the operating rooms of the highest-volume anterior hip surgeons in the US taught them that no video could.

For early-career hip surgeons weighing the fellowship, and for anyone trying to turn anterior approach technique into surgical judgment.

This is the second of three conversations with the 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows. Host Joe Schwab sits down with Jadye Kee, a joint replacement surgeon in community practice in Bryan-College Station, Texas; Pat Maher, a hip and knee surgeon at EvergreenHealth in Kirkland, Washington; and Leo Zalikha, a Stanford-trained reconstruction surgeon now practicing in Long Beach, California. Three very different practices, two weeks on the road from Hoag in Irvine to Anderson Clinic, the Southern Joint Institute in Nashville, and Louisville, and one shared question: what actually changed when they got home?

The answer starts in the OR but does not stay there. The fellows describe the small things nobody voices on video, from capsule tagging and retractor timing to a calcar release that depends on how the femur drops, and what it meant to be able to ask the surgeon why. They work through judgment versus technique, how to know when the femur is released enough, when a long femoral revision still belongs posterior, the on-table versus off-table question, and how to bring high-volume habits back to a community hospital with a different patient population. Along the way: BMI cutoffs and widening indications, value-based care, and why the OR is always an N of one.

What stayed with them most was not a maneuver. It was watching how surgeons at the top of their field run a room, empower a team, and give their time to the people coming up behind them, and the kind of mentors they now want to be. They close with the case for why their group beat the first one, and a one-sentence answer to what the fellowship gave them that no technique could.

Thinking about applying for the 2027 AHF Traveling Fellowship? Applications run through the Anterior Hip Foundation, linked below.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet the 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows
01:21 What three early-career surgeons wanted from the fellowship
05:48 Itinerary: Hoag, Anderson Clinic, Nashville, Louisville
09:53 Watching experts up close: why every step has a reason
15:24 Judgment vs technique in anterior hip replacement
19:40 Bringing high-volume lessons back to a community hospital
22:12 Good vs great surgeons, and finding your own technique
26:42 Patient selection, value-based care, evidence vs experience
31:54 Long femoral revisions and on-table vs off-table
34:24 OR culture and flow: fluoro setup, walkie-talkies, two rooms
38:35 The kind of mentor they want to become
42:55 What the fellowship really offers beyond technique
46:20 Day one again, and where they hope to be in five years
52:03 Which 2026 fellows group was better?
54:00 The takeaway that wasn't a technique, and applying for 2027

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast

#TravelingFellowship #AnteriorApproach #AnteriorHip #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #RevisionTHA #OrthopedicSurgery #SurgicalMentorship #ValueBasedCare #JadyeKee #PatMaher #LeoZalikha

Scrubbing In With the Giants (2026 Traveling Fellows - Ep 1)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Three 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows on what two and a half weeks scrubbing in with the most experienced anterior hip surgeons in the US actually changed in their practice.

For early-career hip surgeons weighing the fellowship, and for anyone refining their anterior approach technique, revision skills, or practice model.

Every year the Anterior Hip Foundation sends a small group of early-career surgeons city to city to scrub in with the highest-volume and most innovative anterior hip surgeons in the country. Host Joe Schwab sits down with Alex Savage, Anoop Prasad, and Brent Albracht, three of the 2026 fellows with academic, community, and transatlantic vantage points, to unpack the trip while it is still fresh.

The conversation moves from the OR to everything around it: radiographic versus acetabular inclination in Dr. Matta's cadaver lab, anterior nail conversion in Houston, buttress fixation for large acetabular defects from the front, the femoral broach angle that had caused two perforations, and the on-table versus off-table question that came up at every stop. Along the way the fellows retrace the itinerary from San Francisco through Los Angeles, Houston, Charlotte, and Atlanta to the AHF meeting, and describe what they learned from watching how surgeons at the top of their game run teams, follow up patients, and build a practice.

They are also candid about what the fellowship costs in family time and practice coverage, who it is not built for, and what they would tell next year's applicants. Their biggest takeaways were not techniques at all: confidence, an approach to practice, and perspective.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet the 2026 AHF Traveling Fellows
01:17 Three different roads to anterior hip arthroplasty
06:01 The Shania Twain karaoke story
07:33 Cup inclination lessons from Dr. Matta's cadaver lab
11:22 Anterior nail conversion tips from Houston
12:56 What changed in the OR after the fellowship
14:50 Anterior approach revision: buttress fixation research
17:18 Cadaver labs vs live cases for learning revision
20:57 Fixing femoral broach angle after two perforations
23:17 The fellowship itinerary from San Francisco to Nashville
28:05 Team culture at OrthoCarolina
29:25 Unexpected mentors and practice-building lessons
34:34 What the fellows learned from each other
39:41 Family, PA coverage, and the cost of three weeks away
46:09 On-table vs off-table anterior hip: where each fellow landed
51:57 Who the Traveling Fellowship is not built for
56:59 Advice for next year's fellows: notes, GoPro, survival guide
1:00:49 Confidence, perspective, and the biggest takeaways
1:04:45 Which fellows group wins, and why to apply for 2027

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast
#TravelingFellowship #AnteriorApproach #AnteriorHip #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #RevisionTHA #OrthopedicSurgery #SurgicalEducation #Arthroplasty #AlexSavage #AnoopPrasad #BrentAlbracht

Anterior Approach Revision (S+N Surgeon Roundtable)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Can you really revise a failed total hip through the anterior approach? Three surgeons who do it every week explain when they stay anterior, when they still go posterior, and how they plan the exposure.

A practical roundtable on anterior approach revision hip arthroplasty for arthroplasty surgeons, fellows, and residents.

The knock on anterior approach revision has always been that it is not extensile. Eric Cohen, Kris Alden, and Molly Hartzler take that head-on: from the ASIS to the lateral knee, total femurs, cup-cages, and periprosthetic fractures are all on the table, and the recovery data increasingly favors the front. They also draw their lines honestly. One of them has not done a posterior revision in fifteen years; the other two still pick the approach case by case, and they explain exactly which red flags send them posterior.

The conversation gets specific quickly. How to diagnose and sequence a failed hip before approach even enters the discussion. How to plan an incision you can extend, and what to do with a prior bikini scar. Whether to excise the old scar and whether to keep or remove the capsule. How to regain your bearings with fluoroscopy and a functional standing pelvis film when the landmarks are gone. And on the acetabular side, how to balance defect fill, biomechanics, and cup orientation, when a single integrated revision system changes the plan, and where dual mobility and constrained liners actually belong.

It closes with the one mistake almost every surgeon makes when they first revise from the front, a guardrail for anyone early in the journey, and a look at where anterior approach revision is headed as implants and instruments finally catch up with the approach.

This episode was recorded in partnership with Smith+Nephew — Life Unlimited. The REDAPT Revision Hip System and OR3O Dual Mobility give surgeons a flexible, stability-focused approach to revision total hip arthroplasty — from compromised bone and fixation challenges to instability. Learn more at https://www.smithandnephew.com

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: anterior approach revision roundtable
02:17 Is anterior approach revision really extensile?
03:31 How modern revision cups changed screw and cup-cage decisions
05:59 Exposure and diagnosis before technique in teaching revision
07:12 Sequencing a failed total hip before choosing an approach
09:26 Red flags for going posterior instead of anterior
13:44 Acetabular bone loss and revision cup technology
15:20 Anterior approach revision for instability
18:29 Planning extensile exposure: bikini vs longitudinal incisions
26:20 Reopening the old scar and handling the capsule
30:24 Orientation without landmarks: fluoroscopy and stability testing
34:51 Filling defects and choosing an acetabular revision system
37:41 Dual mobility vs constrained liners in revision
41:49 The most common early mistake in anterior approach revision
42:43 Head size, dual mobility, and avoiding over-constraint
44:37 Parting advice and the future of anterior approach revision

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast

#RevisionHip #RevisionTHA #TotalHipArthroplasty #AnteriorApproach #AcetabularRevision #CupCage #DualMobility #ConstrainedLiner #HipInstability #PeriprostheticFracture #EricCohen #KrisAlden #MollyHartzler #SmithNephew

JointMedica & the Hip Resurfacing Comeback

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Hip resurfacing was written off after the metal-on-metal era — but the patients kept coming back happy. Two surgeons who never stopped offering it explain what changed, and what a vitamin E polyethylene bearing does to the failure mode that ended it.

For hip surgeons weighing whether resurfacing belongs in their toolkit, and for anyone interested in where orthopedic implant innovation actually comes from.

Sharat Kusuma left clinical practice to lead JointMedica as CEO, developing the PolyMotion resurfacing device. Craig Della Valle, of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, took Sharat on as a fellow nearly twenty years ago and is now an investigator in the device's IDE study. Both learned the operation in the Birmingham era — Craig with Derek McMinn, Sharat during six months in England with McMinn, Ronan Treacy and Andrew Manktelow.

Neither of them skips the hard parts. Craig is candid about revising his own metal-on-metal failures, about resurfacing taking longer and paying the same as a total hip, and about how much of the case rests on results he cannot randomize. Sharat argues the real ceiling is instrumentation rather than the operation, and that implant companies — not surgeons — should carry the burden of making a difficult procedure easy. They disagree, usefully, about how familiar the PolyMotion cup will feel the first time a surgeon picks it up.

A long stretch of the conversation is about the anterior approach specifically: whether resurfacing is harder or easier from the front, what the capsulotomy actually demands, and why centering the guide pin in the femoral neck is the step still waiting to be solved. If you do anterior approach hips and have wondered whether resurfacing is a reasonable extension of what you already do, start there.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Why hip resurfacing is getting a second look
02:40 The problem a stemmed total hip still doesn't solve
05:29 Learning resurfacing in Birmingham and the first 20 cases
08:50 Dislocation, fracture and infection rates in resurfacing
13:55 The coming wave of periprosthetic fractures
19:20 Practicing through the metal-on-metal fallout
27:17 Is hip resurfacing niche? Sizing the candidate pool
33:22 Inside PolyMotion's vitamin E polyethylene bearing
40:50 Why cup stiffness affects acetabular bone response
45:02 Anterior approach resurfacing: synergy, not rivalry
55:36 Centering the guide pin and avoiding neck fracture
1:05:15 Telling a surgical fad from a real advance

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AHFPodcast #AnteriorHipFoundation #HipResurfacing #PolyMotion #JointMedica #AnteriorApproach #HipArthroplasty #MetalOnMetal #BHR #VitaminEPolyethylene #IDEStudy #SharatKusuma #CraigDellaValle

Managing Instability in AA Hips (S+N Surgeon Roundtable)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Dislocation after anterior approach total hip replacement still runs around 2% in the first two years — so what actually moves that number?

Three hip surgeons work through instability prevention end to end, from the first clinic visit to the final construct.

The anterior approach has pushed dislocation rates in the right direction, but it has not solved instability — and the belief that it has is where surgeons get caught. In this roundtable, Jeff Barry, Blair Ashley, and Chance Gray work through what the database and registry literature actually show, why anterior approach hips come out the front and the back rather than predictably out the back, and how much of that risk is genuinely modifiable.

The conversation gets specific quickly. They disagree productively on whether instability risk can be optimized in the patient at all, or whether it is simply a surgeon's problem to engineer around. They cover cup targets in the setting of hip-spine mismatch, what a standing AP film really tells you, the intraoperative stability checks each of them refuses to skip, and how to escalate a construct — head size, lateralized liners, offset and length, dual mobility — without letting the most constrained option become the default.

This one is for arthroplasty surgeons, fellows, and residents building their own instability algorithm, and for anyone who has looked at a well-positioned cup on a postoperative film and wondered what they missed. It closes with each surgeon's single piece of advice for avoiding that lesson the hard way.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and what the data says about dislocation
03:47 Why instability prevention starts in the clinic
05:57 Cup position first when diagnosing an unstable hip
08:30 How anterior and posterior hips dislocate differently
12:34 Instability risk after revision anterior approach surgery
14:28 Counseling patients on dislocation risk and risk factors
19:14 Why instability is a surgeon problem, not a patient problem
22:55 Planning for hip-spine mismatch in anterior approach hips
27:32 Explaining the hip-spine relationship to patients
31:48 Where CT-based planning tools fit into instability risk
35:09 Dual mobility and high offset stems for high risk patients
40:22 Non-negotiable stability checks before you close
45:32 Intraoperative red flags and navigation beyond fluoroscopy
50:04 Escalating head size, lateralized liners, and offset
56:24 Are constrained liners obsolete in the dual mobility era
1:00:43 An end-to-end instability prevention algorithm
1:07:39 Parting advice on preventing dislocation

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

This episode was recorded in partnership with Smith+Nephew — Life Unlimited.
Learn more at https://www.smith-nephew.com

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast

#HipInstability #HipDislocation #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #DualMobility #Spinopelvic #RevisionHipArthroplasty #ConstrainedLiner #JeffBarry #BlairAshley #ChanceGray

The 2026 Shark Tank Winners Rethinking Surgical Imaging

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What if the C-arm you already own could show you the entire pelvis — in real time, with less radiation? The winners of the 2026 AHF Shark Tank believe it can, and they built the system to prove it.

Dr. Dean Cole, an orthopedic trauma surgeon with roughly 40 patents and designs licensed across the industry, and Scott Banks, PhD, who has spent nearly four decades quantifying how joints actually move under fluoroscopy across more than 200 published papers, join Joe Schwab to tell the story of Orthopedic Driven Imaging (ODI) — the company born from a 2022 cold call — and SODI, their FDA-cleared imaging platform that retrofits the GE OEC C-arms already sitting in an estimated 22,000 operating rooms.

The conversation traces both founders' paths: Dean's trauma training under Jeff Mast and a lifetime of problem-solving inherited from a space-program father; Scott's route from pre-med engineer to Mako-era implant design and a career asking how knees and hips really move. Together they explain why surgical planning and postoperative confirmation have advanced dramatically while the middle of the operation stayed fuzzy — and what a full-field-of-view detector changes for anterior approach hip replacement: pelvis alignment from a video camera in the collimator, fewer scout shots, less radiation, and femoral offset you can actually measure.

They also get practical about adoption: what they'd say to the surgeon who trusts their current imaging, why anterior hip and spine come first while the joint-kinematics vision matures, and what they're looking for from early-adopter surgeons (orthodriven.com).

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: the AHF Shark Tank winners
01:35 Pitching surgeons live at AHF 2026
04:33 Dean Cole: trauma, Jeff Mast, and 40 patents
07:12 Scott Banks: an engineer's toolbox for medicine
09:02 What we still can't see about joint motion
11:31 The 2022 phone call that started ODI
15:33 A founding team built by serendipity
18:13 Two decades of C-arms, nav, and robotics
21:30 What robotics does well — and the ill-defined target
26:56 Full field of view, less radiation, same workflow
30:55 Retrofitting the C-arm you already own
34:16 What early ODI cases taught Dean
36:11 Why anterior hip (and spine) come first
38:29 To the surgeon who trusts their current setup
40:09 Hip replacement five years from now
41:16 What ODI wants from early adopters
44:08 Taking risks late in a career
49:50 Advice for surgeon-innovators in training
53:06 What they hope patients never have to know

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com
Guest company: https://orthodriven.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #HipReplacement #Fluoroscopy #SurgicalImaging #OrthopedicInnovation #SharkTank #DeanCole #ScottBanks #ODI #OrthopedicSurgery

Operation FUBAR: Eight Challenging Hips with Nick Mast

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do when the foot slips out of the traction boot mid-case — and a manageable periprosthetic fracture becomes a femur in pieces? Dr. Nick Mast has an answer, because it happened to him.

Nick Mast, a hip and pelvis surgeon in private practice in San Francisco, trained under Joel Matta at the Hip and Pelvis Institute in 2007–2008 and completed hip preservation training in Europe. He's also a second-generation surgeon — son of fracture-surgery pioneer Jeff Mast — and his practice runs heavy on the cases other surgeons send away: complex trauma, revisions, non-unions, and malunions. For this Operation FUBAR episode, he brings a career's worth of them.

The case series spans a 35-year-old malunited both-column acetabular fracture with protrusio (in a yoga instructor), the reverse femoral-head grafting technique he learned from Frédéric Laude in Paris, bilateral Crowe IV high hip dislocations, converting a failed PAO in a Perthes hip, post-traumatic arthritis with intrapelvic hardware, geriatric acetabular fractures treated with fix-and-replace, simultaneous bilateral Perthes replacements — and the recent one: an osteoporotic periprosthetic fracture revision where the foot came out of the boot and the leg fell, comminuting the diaphysis mid-case.

The most valuable part may be what happens around the surgery: how Mast keeps a room calm by lowering his voice instead of raising it, the pack-the-wound pause he learned from his father, the mid-case calls to trusted colleagues that produced the solution, how he reads bone quality on a plain radiograph (the "third-third-third" rule), and why his practice has shifted toward French-paradox cementing. For anterior approach surgeons, fellows, and residents, this is a masterclass in complex hips — and in composure.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 What Operation FUBAR is
01:01 Introducing Dr. Nick Mast
03:06 A both-column fracture, 35 years later
06:05 Restoring the hip center in protrusio
08:46 The reverse femoral-head grafting technique
13:27 Reduce, reuse, recycle: step by step
17:29 Bilateral Crowe IV: who needs a subtroch?
19:34 Low, small, and medial — the dysplasia mantra
21:09 An SROM for ninety degrees of anteversion
24:05 Converting a failed PAO in a Perthes hip
27:05 Intrapelvic hardware from the front
29:08 Geriatric acetabular fracture: fix and replace
33:37 Bilateral Perthes, done simultaneously
35:21 The hardest call: length in unilateral Perthes
37:33 A periprosthetic fracture goes FUBAR
40:56 The foot comes out of the boot
43:59 Staying calm when the case falls apart
46:34 Pack the wound, phone a friend
48:55 Reading bad bone; the case for cement
51:39 Advice to a younger Nick Mast

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #OperationFUBAR #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #HipReplacement #AcetabularFracture #PeriprostheticFracture #Dysplasia #CroweIV #Perthes #NickMast #OrthopedicSurgery

Complex primary THA with AA (S+N Surgeon Roundtable)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do the moment a calcar crack appears? Where does the cup go when the spine won't move? And which complex primary belongs in an ASC — and which one absolutely doesn't?

This episode launches a six-part surgeon roundtable series recorded in partnership with Smith+Nephew — peer-to-peer conversations aimed at one thing: practical, reproducible techniques you can take back to your operating room. First up, the complex primary total hip: severe dysplasia, post-traumatic anatomy, obesity, osteoporosis, and Dorr A femurs — the hips where the margin for error shrinks and the plan gets tested.

Three guests join Joe Schwab: Dr. Jessica Hooper, who leads an outpatient joint program and knows what complex work can be done safely in an ASC; Dr. Stephen Duncan, who operates from hip preservation through revision and sees exactly which traps in a primary set up the revision that follows; and Dr. Chad Watts, a high-volume hip surgeon focused on making every step repeatable.

The conversation gets concrete fast: structured planning two weeks out (CT for version, long-leg standing films — "hope is not a plan"), go/no-go criteria for the anterior approach, the low-small-medial cup strategy in dysplasia versus the oversized-cup trap, locking-screw cups in deficient bone, why triple-taper stems changed the fracture picture, automated impaction, the full decision framework for an intraoperative calcar crack, controlled medialization under fluoro (and the case for sharp reamers), where each surgeon falls on the spinopelvic spectrum, when dual mobility earns its place, and what changes between ASC and hospital workflows — including how to teach plan B and plan C so, as Dr. Duncan puts it, "plan C should not be chaos."

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 A new roundtable series
02:06 Keeping high-risk primaries safe in an ASC
02:59 The step Chad Watts never skips
04:08 The traps that set up tomorrow's revision
05:05 What dysplasia and post-trauma change in the plan
07:39 When not to go anterior
09:00 Non-negotiables: templating, version, limb length
10:25 "Hope is not a plan": CT and long-leg films
11:41 Restoring the hip center without over-lengthening
15:09 A preservation mindset in dysplasia
16:51 Dorr A femurs: exposure and broaching principles
18:17 Where fractures happen — and how to prevent them
19:57 Intraoperative cues to slow down
23:00 Stem design, triple tapers, and automated impaction
28:18 Calcar crack: the decision framework
34:33 Keeping the room calm and controlled
35:39 Avoiding over-reaming in compromised bone
37:21 Hitting narrow cup targets under fluoro
40:13 How much does spinopelvic mobility matter?
44:01 Where dual mobility earns its place
46:24 Reproducible workflows: ASC vs. hospital
50:23 "Plan C should not be chaos"
51:48 Closing advice: mindset shifts and patient selection

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This episode was recorded in partnership with Smith+Nephew — Life Unlimited.
Learn more at https://www.smith-nephew.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #HipReplacement #Dysplasia #CalcarFracture #DorrA #DualMobility #SpinopelvicMobility #OutpatientSurgery #SmithNephew #OrthopedicSurgery

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From Idea to Market: Ep 12 - From Here, It's Yours

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

In the finale of From Idea to Market, the surgeons, engineers, founders, attorneys, and investors who lived every stage of medical device innovation look back and answer one question: what do they wish they had known from the start?

Across this series, one pattern kept surfacing: innovation doesn't begin with a business plan. It begins with a clinical problem someone can't let go — a resident watching a procedure that felt inadequate and carrying that feeling for twenty-five years, or a physician-turned-founder who couldn't stop thinking about a patient who lacked what she needed.

In this closing episode, Robert Cohen reflects on four decades in med tech and the permission to say "I don't know." Alexander Sah describes the emotional rollercoaster of introducing new technology — and knowing when to abandon an idea. Charlie DeCook and Simon Mifsud explain why the idea itself is never the advantage. Charles Lawrie distills the whole journey into a playbook: start with a problem you live, build with people who know what you don't, think big but execute small. Leo Whiteside talks about protecting intellectual property, standing alone on panels, and why the work is "a very joyful thing to do." Emily Ast and Marie-Isabelle Batthyány close with the tests that matter: the right team, the family at the dinner table, and a real need — not an imagined one.

If there's a problem in your practice that keeps coming back to you, this episode is the series' parting argument for taking it seriously. From here, it's yours.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: what the series taught us about innovators
02:54 The problem you can't let go: where innovation begins
07:13 What innovation demands: vulnerability and listening
09:42 The emotional rollercoaster of device development
11:29 Why the idea is not the advantage: iteration and teams
13:55 Charles Lawrie's playbook: start with a problem you live
16:52 Leo Whiteside on opposition, IP, and the joy of the work
19:04 Legal, financial, and family support for innovators
20:33 Real needs, not imagined ones: the test of every device
22:03 From here, it's yours: a challenge to the next innovator

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTech #MedicalDevices #HealthcareInnovation #OrthopedicSurgery #SurgeonEntrepreneur #DeviceDevelopment #MedicalInnovation #FromIdeaToMarket #StartupAdvice #HipReplacement

From Idea to Market: Ep 11 - Built to Last or Built to Sell?

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Is your med tech company built to last, or built to sell? Voices from inside Stryker, XRSynergies, FIOS Health, and physician contract law explain why exit strategy is a design choice founders make on day one — whether they realize it or not.

In 2024, med tech M&A reached a record $474 billion in global transaction value. For most successful device startups, the path to broad patient reach runs through acquisition — and that reality shapes how experienced founders structure their companies from the moment of incorporation. Corporate form, consulting agreements, equity design, and quality systems all encode an implied destination long before an acquirer ever calls.

Robert Cohen (VP of Innovation & Technology, Stryker Orthopedics) describes how acquisition conversations actually unfold — why the clinical case comes before any discussion of cost of goods or time to market, and how incorporating as a C corporation from day one made his second company's acquisition by Mako Surgical dramatically easier. Marie-Isabelle Batthyány (founder & CEO, XRSynergies) explains building a company that is "easy to take over," from phantom share programs to diligence-ready quality management. Attorney Emily Ast unpacks the shift from long royalty streams toward milestone-based deal structures, and Charles Lawrie (co-founder, FIOS Health) makes the case for clinical validation as the founder's contribution, with commercial scaling left to the acquirer.

Whether you're a surgeon with a device idea, a founder weighing an LLC against a C corporation, or a clinician curious how acquisitions preserve or lose the clinical knowledge behind a product, this episode maps the decisions that determine what your company becomes.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: exit as a design choice, not a finish line
03:00 Meet the founders, acquirers, and attorneys
05:06 Early structural choices that define what a company becomes
06:04 What a med tech acquirer is actually buying
08:12 How acquisition conversations start: the clinical case first
10:24 Structuring a startup to be acquisition-ready
12:57 Path dependency: early decisions that get expensive to reverse
14:17 Why a C corporation from day one speeds diligence
16:31 Royalties vs milestone payments in med tech deals
19:34 Why acquisitions underperform: knowledge transfer and retention
24:18 Building to sell: clinical validation vs commercial scale

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTech #MedicalDevices #MedTechAcquisitions #ExitStrategy #MedicalDeviceStartup #OrthopedicSurgery #HealthcareInnovation #DeviceDevelopment #FromIdeaToMarket #Stryker

Operation FUBAR: One-in-Six-Million Bone

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do when the greater trochanter shears off during a routine hip replacement — and the bone is too soft to hold a screw? Dr. Jeff Barry of UCSF walks through two intraoperative disasters in the same patient, and how he salvaged both.

Jeff Barry, who directs the Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Fellowship at UCSF and co-directs the Arthroplasty for the Modern Surgeon course, joins Joe Schwab for an Operation FUBAR case review most surgeons will recognize with a wince: a frail 75-year-old retired nurse with a rapidly collapsing hip, leukemia, low platelets, and osteoporosis so severe her DEXA T-score came back at -5.1 — statistically about one in six million.

On the first side, the trochanter shears off during a femoral exposure Barry has performed thousands of times. On the second side a year later — after a missed femoral neck fracture — a gently tapped multi-hole cup punches straight through the medial wall. Barry talks through the decision-making in both moments: when less is more, how locking-screw revision cups can function as an internal cage, and why the "trap side" of a case is often the one you weren't worried about.

The conversation goes beyond technique into how surgeons process intraoperative complications — stepping back from the wound to game-plan, communicating with anesthesia before cementing in a pulmonary patient, protecting the next case on the schedule, and the value of a "confessional" text thread with trusted colleagues. For arthroplasty surgeons, fellows, and residents, this is an honest look at what severely osteoporotic bone can do to even a well-planned primary.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and guest background
01:31 Frail elderly patient with a rapidly collapsing hip
03:37 Planning a cemented hip in severe osteoporosis
06:21 Greater trochanter shears off during femoral exposure
08:00 How surgeons react when a case goes wrong
13:27 What a T-score of -5.1 means for hip surgery
14:42 Missed femoral neck fracture in the opposite hip
16:44 Acetabular cup punches through the medial wall
19:21 Salvaging a failed cup with locking screws
24:45 Managing pelvic discontinuity as the rescue surgeon
28:46 Knowing when to call for help in the OR
33:33 Teaching trainees through intraoperative complications
40:12 Debriefing and the surgeon confessional after complications

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #HipReplacement #Osteoporosis #RevisionHipSurgery #FemoralNeckFracture #PeriprostheticFracture #CementedStem #PelvicDiscontinuity #JeffBarry #OrthopedicSurgery

Mapping How the World Really Does Hip Replacement

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0400

How does hip replacement practice really differ from one country to the next? Researcher Irrum Afzal joins the AHF Podcast to discuss the Global Arthroplasty Practice Survey (GAPS) — the first effort to map how surgeons worldwide actually perform total hip replacement.

Despite roughly seventy years of modern hip replacement, there's still no global consensus on the fundamentals — surgical approach, fixation, bearing surface, or the perioperative pathway. National joint registries capture some of this, but their coverage and data quality vary widely, and many countries have no registry at all. The result is that we know surprisingly little about how the operation is actually performed around the world.

Irrum Afzal, a researcher at Imperial College London and a digital health transformation specialist, is working to close that gap. Co-led with Professor Richard Field, GAPS asks surgeons of every volume and career stage to describe their real preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative practice. It takes under ten minutes, covers the full patient journey, and is built to feed a long-term dataset that machine learning can eventually turn into research priorities and a working global consensus.

Along the way, Irrum explains how her study on the accuracy of National Joint Registry revision data shaped her thinking about data quality, why anterior approach adoption ranges from around 1% in the UK to 56% in the US, and what surgeon-reported practice data can add to what registries already collect. If you perform hip replacement, your answers help build the first real worldwide picture of the field — and the survey is open through 30 June.

Take the Survey Here: https://tinyurl.com/GAPSHIPS
Visit the Working Group: https://www.globalarthroplastypractice.com/

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and guest background
01:40 How a public health researcher moved into orthopaedics
02:48 Why hip revision registry data is often inaccurate
04:46 What the Global Arthroplasty Practice Survey measures
07:14 Why hip replacement practice still varies worldwide
08:42 Who runs GAPS and how to join the working group
10:08 Why surgeons should take the survey and what they gain
13:18 Using AI to turn survey responses into research priorities
14:01 How many responses GAPS needs and the June 30th deadline
16:50 What success looks like and sharing data with registries
19:05 Presenting GAPS results at the European Anterior Hip Meeting

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast
#HipReplacement #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #AnteriorApproach #JointRegistry #NationalJointRegistry #OrthopaedicResearch #GAPS #IrrumAfzal #HipRevision #ArthroplastyData

From Idea to Market: Ep 10 - What Breaks at Scale

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 22 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What real-world use reveals about a medical device that no clinical trial ever could — and why the most dangerous moment in med tech innovation often comes after success, not before. A conversation about the fatigue failures, reimbursement gaps, and feedback breakdowns that surface only at scale.

For ten episodes, the From Idea to Market series has followed medical innovation through every threshold an idea must survive — the first clinical insight, the years of iteration, the funding rounds, the regulatory climb, the investor's decision room. Episode 10 asks what happens after all of that succeeds. When a product is working, when demand is building, when expectations have risen, what new vulnerabilities does that very success create?

Joe Schwab is joined by four voices who have lived this stage from different positions. Jared Foran is an orthopaedic surgeon in Denver and co-founder and chief scientific officer of Forcast Orthopedics. Doug Fairbanks is the president, CEO, and board member at VISIE Inc. Charlie DeCook is the president of Total Joint Specialists, a 17-surgeon group in Atlanta. Robert Cohen is the vice president of innovation and technology for Stryker's orthopaedic group, with four decades of watching the commercial environment for med tech innovation shift around him.

The episode works through three questions: what does real-world use reveal that no development program ever can, which structural and commercial weaknesses surface only at scale, and how do teams build the organizational discipline to act on what the market tells them. The conversation moves from product iteration after launch, to the second valley of death between regulatory clearance and reimbursement, to the feedback loops inside an organization that determine whether real-world signals reach the people who can act on them. For surgeon-founders, for engineers in med tech, and for anyone trying to understand why so many clinically promising ideas stall after they reach the market, this episode is about what scale actually demands.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 What happens to medical devices after they reach the market
02:53 Surgeons and industry leaders who scaled med tech innovations
04:35 The fatigue failure principle applied to medical devices
06:05 What real-world use reveals that clinical trials never can
09:15 Why most med tech products require a major pivot post-launch
11:33 How to sustain commercial momentum after launch
14:32 The second valley of death between clearance and reimbursement
16:13 Inside the new FDA-CMS RAPID coverage pathway
17:36 How reimbursement uncertainty kills good clinical ideas
22:35 Building feedback loops before scale exposes the gaps
25:39 Why launch is the start of development, not the end
30:55 Preview: built to last or built to sell

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#anteriorhipfoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTech #MedTechInnovation #FromIdeaToMarket #PostMarketSurveillance #MedicalDevices #Reimbursement #FDA #ValleyOfDeath #Stryker #OrthopedicSurgery

FITM Extended Interview: Alexander Sah

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 19 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Alex Sah on what it actually takes for a practicing surgeon to develop new orthopaedic tools — from first idea to OR adoption.

An honest conversation about mentors, mistakes, AI, and knowing when to walk away from a collaboration.

Most surgeons spot problems in the OR daily and quietly adapt to the limits of existing tools. Alex Sah, a high-volume hip and knee surgeon in Silicon Valley and Chief Medical Officer at Think Surgical, has chosen instead to engage directly with industry — first as an evaluator, then as an advisor, and eventually as a design partner. In this conversation with Joe Schwab, he walks through how that progression actually works in practice, and why he thinks every surgeon with a good idea owes it to themselves to start the process now rather than later.

The discussion gets practical fast. Alex breaks down how to vet an idea with a mentor and a patent search, why timing and portfolio fit can make or break a great concept, how to set milestones that let you walk away gracefully from a stalled collaboration, and why the technologies that succeed are usually the ones that speak for themselves the first time a surgeon uses them. He also shares a small habit with big implications — keeping his OR team blinded when testing new products to neutralize the placebo effect that quietly distorts informal evaluations.

The conversation closes on AI's inevitable arrival in orthopaedics, the surgeon's role in shaping it before it gets shaped for us, and the AHF Shark Tank as a live laboratory for the From Idea to Market journey. If you've been sitting on an idea, or wondering whether to take that next call from a device rep with a prototype, this episode is a realistic map of the road ahead.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Silicon Valley innovation roots
01:02 Why surgeons should solve problems instead of adapting
03:25 Surgeon roles in product development
04:24 First steps for surgeons with no industry connections
05:41 Turning a clinical idea into a development concept
06:46 Setting milestones and knowing when to walk away
08:01 Lessons from working with Think Surgical
10:50 Evaluating new surgical technology objectively
12:14 Essential advice for first-time surgeon innovators
15:47 Why surgeons must help shape AI in orthopaedics
17:40 Inside the AHF Shark Tank for surgical innovation

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #AlexanderSah #SurgeonInnovator #MedicalDeviceDevelopment #ThinkSurgical #Ospitek #OrthopaedicInnovation #JointReplacement #HipAndKneeSurgery #AIinSurgery #FromIdeaToMarket #MedTech #SurgicalRobotics

From Idea to Market: Ep 9 - Inside the Decision Room

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 15 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What med tech investors and strategic acquirers actually evaluate when a founder walks into the room — and what separates the pitches that earn capital from those that don't. A conversation drawn from people who've sat on both sides of the table.

For nine episodes, the From Idea to Market series has followed innovation from the founder's perspective — the problem noticed in a clinic, the iteration through years of prototypes, the regulatory climb, the manufacturing scale-up. Episode nine flips the lens. For the first time, the conversation moves into the room where decisions about that founder get made: by investors, by strategic acquirers, by the people whose capital and reputation come along with a yes.

Joe Schwab is joined by voices who've lived this evaluation from every side. Charles Lawrie is a co-founder and chief medical officer at FIOS Health and the current president of the Anterior Hip Foundation. Charlie DeCook is the president of Total Joint Specialists and has watched dozens of Shark Tank pitches at AHF annual meetings. Alex Sah is past AHF president, chief medical officer at Think! Surgical, and chief innovation officer at Ospitek. Robert Cohen, vice president of innovation and technology for Stryker's orthopaedic group, has spent four decades evaluating med tech ideas from inside startups and from inside one of the largest companies in the field.

The episode unpacks three questions: what truly drives the decisions made behind closed doors, how clinical value and financial logic and strategic interest actually intersect in real time, and which kinds of narrative survive due diligence — and which collapse the moment scrutiny begins. For surgeon-founders preparing to pitch, for clinicians thinking about their first innovation, and for anyone curious about how med tech capital actually gets allocated, this episode lays out what the decision room is really testing.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Why this episode flips perspective from founder to investor

02:42 Surgeons and industry leaders inside the med tech decision room

04:46 What investors actually look for in a med tech pitch

08:23 How to structure a 15-minute med tech pitch

13:30 Where clinical value, profit, and strategy intersect

15:30 Why a great med tech idea can fail to scale

18:36 Why founders should pitch with a CEO at their side

22:02 How honest narrative wins under due diligence scrutiny

26:40 Stick to your competency: advice from a Stryker VP

29:12 What the decision room is really testing

31:43 Preview: when scaling success threatens to break the company

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation

Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTech #MedTechInnovation #FromIdeaToMarket #MedicalDevices #MedTechInvesting #OrthopedicSurgery #StartupPitch #VentureCapital #Stryker #SharkTank

FITM Extended Interview: Charles Lawrie (FIOS Health)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 12 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Charles Lawrie, MD — president of the Anterior Hip Foundation and a high-volume anterior approach hip and robotic knee surgeon in Miami — walks us through how a frustration in his own clinic became FIOS Health, an AI-powered patient communication platform now used in orthopaedic practices across the United States. This is an extended From Idea to Market conversation about the often lonely process of turning a clinical observation into a commercialized med-tech product, and what surgeons should know before they try.

Most surgeons see the same pattern every week: a flood of routine post-op questions about swelling, walking, showering, and driving that consumes clinic staff and amplifies patient anxiety. Lawrie's argument is that the bottleneck isn't surgical expertise — it's access to timely, trusted information, and that scaling that information is a fundamentally different problem than scaling clinical capacity.
We get into why he chose an AI-first product layered on familiar SMS and WhatsApp instead of yet another app, how he found a complementary co-founder in engineer and serial entrepreneur Andrew McDaid, what he had to unlearn to translate clinical expertise into product-market fit, and where FIOS Health is heading next — from answering patient questions to acting as an intelligence layer for the entire clinic.

If you're a surgeon thinking about innovation, this is a candid look at what it actually involves: starting with a problem you live every day, resisting the urge to build alone, defining a minimum viable product, and sitting with the daily self-doubt that comes with taking an idea to market.

https://fioshealth.com/

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Charles Lawrie and FIOS Health
01:14 Why patients struggle with information access after surgery
03:26 Solving staff scarcity and patient anxiety at the same time
05:43 Why AI plus SMS beats yet another patient app
08:53 Turning a clinical observation into a startup
13:07 The mahogany desk vision for patient care
18:21 Finding product market fit in a busy clinic
22:41 How FIOS becomes a surgeon's digital twin
26:50 Advice for surgeons who want to build a company
29:43 The intelligence layer for the entire clinic

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #FIOSHealth #CharlesLawrie #FromIdeaToMarket #MedTechStartup #OrthopaedicInnovation #AIinHealthcare #PatientEngagement #HipArthroplasty #SurgeonEntrepreneur #DigitalHealth #ClinicalWorkflow

From Idea to Market: Ep 8 - Built to Run

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 08 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What does it actually take to move a medical device from a working prototype to a product that can be built reliably at volume? In this episode of From Idea to Market, surgeons, founders, and attorneys describe the discipline that separates an approved device from a scalable company.

Most medical device teams underestimate what happens after a prototype works. Manufacturing at scale is a different problem from manufacturing at all, and the assumption that the hard work is done once the device is validated tends to be the most expensive miscalculation in med tech. This episode unpacks the transition from a hand-tuned engineering project to a controlled, reproducible production system, and why the process itself, not the device, becomes the real product.

Jared Foran of Forcast Orthopedics, Leo Whiteside, Marie-Isabelle Batthyány of XRSynergies, Charles Lawrie of FIOS Health, Charlie DeCook of Total Joint Specialists, attorney Emily Ast, and Simon Mifsud of Garland Surgical share what they have learned from inside this transition. The conversation covers ISO 13485, design for manufacturability, supplier qualification, the economics of hardware versus software, supply chain design as part of the device itself, the kinds of problems that only surface at volume, and the contract clauses that quietly determine whether a successful product remains a fair deal once it scales globally.

If you build, fund, regulate, or use medical devices, this episode is for you. It is the part of innovation that gets the least attention and decides the most outcomes — the daily, unglamorous work of building systems reliable enough that the product performs the same way every time, no matter who is in the room.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Why scaling production breaks medical devices
02:57 Meet the founders, surgeons, and attorneys
05:30 What design freeze means in medical devices
06:46 Why the process becomes the product, not the device
09:32 Bringing manufacturing partners in before design freeze
12:18 The three-times rule of medical device development
15:59 Quality, cost, and scalability at production scale
18:02 Why hardware med tech is harder than software
20:18 Designing surgical kits for real-world supply chains
25:22 Problems that only emerge at production volume
28:11 Why founders should titrate the speed of scale
30:45 IP clauses and royalty timing for global products
34:58 What scale really proves about a medical device company

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #FromIdeaToMarket #MedTech #MedicalDeviceDevelopment #ISO13485 #DesignForManufacturability #DFM #QualityManagementSystem #MedTechScaling #OrthopedicInnovation #SurgicalInnovation #MedicalDeviceManufacturing #MedTechFounders

FITM Extended Interview: Emily Ast

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 01 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

There is no such thing as an off-the-record innovation discussion. Even a casual conversation over drinks can create a factual record of idea sharing that impacts patent ownership, joint development leverage, and your negotiating position for years. Emily Ast, a contract attorney whose practice is 75 percent orthopedics, explains exactly what surgeon innovators need to know before they say a word to anyone — including friends and family.

Ast breaks down the two main contract types innovators encounter: general consulting agreements and intellectual property development agreements. She identifies the single clause she sees surgeons consistently underestimate — the product or project scope definition — and shows how a description that is even slightly too broad can transfer far more IP than intended while limiting what the innovator can do with other companies. She walks through how work orders and statements of work can keep scope appropriately narrow, why royalty streams need to account for different regulatory timelines across global markets, and how to structure IP compensation so it qualifies for capital gains treatment rather than ordinary income.

The conversation also covers what a healthy, well-balanced IP partnership actually looks like, why companies may be shifting away from long royalty streams toward milestone payments and flat-rate structures, and the single most common mistake Ast sees innovators make: getting excited and signing a two-year agreement covering all of hip and knee arthroplasty when they were only asked to do one product lab. For any surgeon sitting on an idea, this is the legal foundation you need before your first meeting.

https://www.astcontracts.com/

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet Emily Ast — contract attorney for surgeon innovators
01:06 Role of a contract attorney in early-stage innovation
01:55 The biggest mindset shift: no off-the-record discussions
02:45 Why you need an NDA before talking to anyone
04:40 Risks of sharing ideas without protection
07:15 The most underestimated clause: product scope definition
09:23 General consulting agreements and hidden IP transfer
11:00 How work orders keep scope appropriately narrow
13:58 Key negotiation points for your first consulting agreement
15:25 IP development agreements: royalties, equity, and structure
17:36 Tax benefits of properly structured IP compensation
18:45 What happens when your IP appears in a product variation
21:40 Regional royalty timing across global markets
24:03 What a healthy IP partnership looks like
27:17 The most common mistake innovators make with industry
28:16 Foundational preparation before meeting with a company
29:52 One piece of advice: protect your napkin idea
31:42 How the surgeon-industry relationship is evolving
34:16 What "from idea to market" means: get your team in place

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #SurgeonInnovator #IntellectualProperty #MedicalDeviceContracts #PhysicianEntrepreneur #NDA #RoyaltyAgreement #OrthopedicInnovation #EmilyAst #IPProtection #ConsultingAgreement #MedTechLaw #FromIdeaToMarket

FITM Extended Interview: XRS Medical (Marie-Isabelle Batthyány)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

A patient had already signed every document — but no one had told her she would lose her stomach. That moment early in her anesthesia training convinced Marie-Isabelle Batthyány that informed consent was fundamentally broken. Years later, she built XRS Medical, a VR platform that replaces paper consent forms with immersive, avatar-delivered patient education and tracks attention in real time using a patented eye-tracking algorithm.

Batthyány walks through exactly what happens from the moment a patient puts on the headset to the moment an attention evaluation report is generated for the surgeon's file. The numbers back it up: 84 percent recall accuracy and 87.5 percent patient satisfaction versus paper forms that almost nobody reads. The platform creates photorealistic digital twins of the operating surgeon, delivers the explanation in the patient's native language, and produces a legal record that the information was delivered and attended to. With over 4,000 patient uses across Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and France, XRS Medical has moved well past proof of concept.

The business story is equally sharp. Batthyány designed the company for acquisition from day one — lean team, phantom shares program, three distinct revenue streams across healthcare providers, pharma, and medical device manufacturers. A surprise pivot into clinical trial consent with Boehringer Ingelheim turned out to be one of the strongest product-market fit moments of the journey. For clinician-founders navigating the European fundraising landscape with a disruptive technology, her playbook on investor fit, due diligence readiness, and the "three threes" rule is essential listening.

https://www.xrs-medical.com/

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet Marie-Isabelle Batthyány — anesthesiologist turned founder
03:00 The patient who didn't know she would lose her stomach
06:04 From clinical frustration to founding XRS Medical
07:23 Why paper forms and traditional videos fail patients
09:28 How the VR informed consent workflow actually works
14:40 The eye tracking algorithm and US patent
19:40 Early prototypes — from real VR film to digital avatars
26:04 Designing a company for acquisition from day one
28:24 Ideal acquirers: pharma, hospital groups, and three revenue streams
34:41 Advantages of being a physician-led European startup
37:04 How the core team came together
39:41 What medical school never taught about business
46:02 Where XRS Medical is heading: US, Japan, AI avatars
48:08 Advice for future clinician-founders
49:05 What "from idea to market" means: blood, sweat, tears

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #XRSMedical #InformedConsent #VirtualReality #PatientEducation #EyeTracking #MedTechStartup #DigitalHealth #ClinicalTrialConsent #MarieIsabelleBatthyany #ClinicianFounder #MedicalLegalRisk #VRinHealthcare

FITM Extended Interview: Simon Mifsud (Garland Surgical, Ltd.)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Garland Surgical's flagship product, the TriActiv Hip (formerly known as the MaltaHip), replaces the ball-and-socket geometry that has defined hip arthroplasty for 120 years with a cylindrical bearing system inspired by the biomechanics of the ankle joint. Simon Mifsud, CEO of Garland Surgical, explains how this design virtually eliminates dislocation risk and reduced wear by 75 percent in accelerated testing.

Mifsud walks through how the cylindrical design achieves its stability advantage — larger contact area, linear reciprocating motion that avoids cross-shear of the polymer — and why surgeons at AAOS and ACUS told him stability matters far more to them right now than durability. He describes the four patient populations this technology targets, from chronic dislocators and post-spinal-fusion patients to the roughly half of the global population whose daily activities involve squatting and cross-legged sitting. The TriActiv Hip stays in place through all of it while offering range of motion that constrained liners cannot match.

https://www.garlandsurgical.health/

The business story is just as instructive. Garland Surgical is a University of Malta spinout navigating a pre-revenue funding landscape where deep-tech hardware competes against AI and digital health for investor attention. Mifsud shares how a hybrid of equity and non-dilutive grant funding — including a 1.4 million euro Malta Enterprise award — has kept the company moving, and how a successful FDA Q-sub cleared the biggest objection investors had. For innovators building physical devices in a software-obsessed market, this is a roadmap worth studying.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Simon Mifsud and the TriActiv Hip
00:49 Why ankle biomechanics inspired a new hip design
02:54 Four underserved patient populations
06:19 How cylindrical bearings reduce wear debris
08:18 What "a hip for life" really means
09:41 Proof of concept: cadaver surgery and the garland pose
11:03 Cross-compatibility with existing femoral stems
13:11 Licensing model versus becoming an OEM
15:04 FDA 510(k) pathway and regulatory strategy
16:01 UK launch, ODEP, and training early adopters
17:26 Funding a hardware startup in a software-first market
20:23 How investor feedback shaped the regulatory approach
23:15 What surgeons at AAOS and ACUS actually wanted
26:46 Managing relationships with academic co-inventors
29:26 Where the TriActiv Hip fits in five years
33:27 What "from idea to market" means to Garland Surgical

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #TriActivHip #GarlandSurgical #HipReplacement #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #HipDislocation #CylindricalBearing #MedicalDeviceStartup #SimonMifsud #HipForLife #510k #OrthopedicInnovation

From Idea to Market: Ep 7 - Beyond Clearance

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Your device just got FDA clearance. So why isn't anyone using it? In this episode of From Idea to Market, Joe Schwab and a panel of surgeons, engineers, and MedTech leaders explore why regulatory approval is only the beginning — and what it actually takes to earn a place in the operating room.

Clearance tells you a device is safe and effective. It doesn't tell you whether a busy surgeon will change their workflow, whether a procurement committee will approve it, or whether a hospital can absorb it into daily practice. This episode unpacks the gap between permission and performance — the space where most MedTech innovations either earn trust or stall out.

Drawing on Everett Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations theory and recent research on early adoption decision-making in surgery, the conversation examines why clinical evidence alone isn't enough. Guests describe how simplicity, immediate benefit, team dynamics, and peer influence determine whether a technology sticks — and why the intention-behavior gap in surgical practice is wider than most companies expect.

The panel also explores how success is redefined after clearance, moving from trial endpoints to real-world outcomes including patient satisfaction, complication rates, workflow efficiency, and health economics. In the PJI space alone, annual hospital costs are projected to reach $1.85 billion by 2030, giving technologies that move the needle enormous clinical and economic significance.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and series overview
02:34 Meet the panel
05:47 Why clearance is only the beginning
07:42 Diffusion of innovations in surgery
11:07 Investing in data vs inventory after clearance
16:11 The intention-behavior gap in adoption
18:14 Deliberate rollout and early adopter strategy
20:55 Simplicity as the key to surgical adoption
23:18 Market forces behind technology uptake
26:19 Redefining success outside controlled settings
29:24 PJI economics and the case for innovation
33:19 When innovation becomes the standard of care
36:52 Three lessons from life after clearance

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTechAdoption #RegulatoryStrategy #FDAClearance #DiffusionOfInnovations #SurgicalInnovation #TotalHipArthroplasty #PJI #PeriprostheticJointInfection #RealWorldEvidence #OrthopedicSurgery #FromIdeaToMarket #MedicalDeviceAdoption

FITM Extended Interview: Charlie DeCook

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Charlie DeCook has exited seven medical device companies while performing 1,500 joint replacements a year — all packed into three clinical days per week. In this extended interview, he breaks down exactly how he evaluates new technologies and why he now filters every opportunity through an AI and robotics lens.

DeCook traces his entrepreneurial arc from his first venture in surgical impaction — a product that eventually sold to Johnson & Johnson and became Kincise — through to his current focus on software-driven solutions. He explains why the "jobs to be done" framework from Clayton Christensen's Innovator's Dilemma is the foundation of every product he touches, and why surgeons who skip the financial model are setting themselves up for years of pain. Along the way, he offers a candid look at how large device companies operate, including the "slow no" that strings inventor-surgeons along for months without a real commitment.

The conversation also covers the AHF Shark Tank program and what separates pitches that land from those that get eaten alive. Whether you are a surgeon sitting in the OR frustrated with an inefficiency, or a founder trying to get traction with the big three, DeCook's hard-won playbook is worth hearing in full.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Meet Charlie DeCook — surgeon, serial entrepreneur
02:11 First venture: surgical impaction to Johnson & Johnson
03:29 Filtering ideas with easier, faster, better
05:22 Patient outcomes vs commercial reality in med-tech
07:43 Why cost concerns work themselves out over time
09:02 Strategic shift from hardware to AI and robotics
10:41 Finding innovation through jobs to be done in the OR
12:43 Lessons from ventures that required major pivots
14:49 Protecting IP from large device companies
17:27 Why public companies can't think past the quarter
19:02 Evaluating products beyond your own efficiency lens
21:40 What makes a winning AHF Shark Tank pitch
24:29 Common mistakes surgeon-entrepreneurs make pitching
27:17 Innovation areas the Shark Tank needs more of
29:25 Top advice for surgeons with a great OR idea
31:45 What innovation in orthopedics really means

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #SurgeonEntrepreneur #MedicalDeviceStartup #OrthopedicInnovation #TotalJointArthroplasty #SurgicalImpaction #AIinOrthopedics #RoboticSurgery #JobsToBeDone #AHFSharkTank #CharlieDeCook #MedTechEntrepreneur #THA

From Idea to Market: Ep 6 - The Valley Between Idea and Approval

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

What actually happens between building a medical device and getting it approved? In this episode of From Idea to Market, we walk through the regulatory valley that separates a working prototype from a cleared product — and why so many promising innovations stall right here.

This is the stage where progress stops being about what you can build and starts being about what you can prove. Joe Schwab breaks down the FDA's device classification system, the critical difference between 510(k) and PMA pathways, and why the gap between regulatory clearance and reimbursement has become one of the defining challenges in modern med tech. You'll hear from founders and industry veterans — including Jared Foran, Peter Noymer, Doug Fairbanks, Marie-Isabelle Batthyány, Robert Cohen, and Simon Mifsud — who share hard-won lessons about navigating this process with limited capital and no margin for error.

Whether you're a surgeon with a device idea, an engineer entering the med tech space, or an investor trying to understand what makes regulatory risk so difficult to price, this episode maps the valley in concrete terms — and explains why the teams that survive it tend to build better products because of it.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the regulatory valley
02:21 Meet the founders and industry veterans
04:36 Why promising devices stall before FDA review
05:23 FDA device classification for hip arthroplasty
09:10 Designing to regulatory standards from day one
10:26 FDA clearance without reimbursement
14:07 How design controls sharpen device claims
16:32 FDA designations that accelerate development
19:56 Costs and risks founders underestimate
23:31 Three lessons from the regulatory valley

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #FDAApproval #MedicalDeviceRegulation #510k #PMA #TotalHipArthroplasty #MedTechInnovation #DeviceClassification #DesignControls #Reimbursement #OrthopedicSurgery #ValleyOfDeath #FromIdeaToMarket

FITM: The Extended Conversation with Doug Fairbanks

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Doug Fairbanks left a robotics commercialization role at Johnson & Johnson to lead a deep tech startup most surgeons had never heard of. In this conversation, the president and CEO of VISIE Inc. explains why — and what their continuous anatomic auto tracking technology could mean for the future of robotic-assisted surgery.

VISIE started as Advanced Scanners, a company founded by optical physicist Aaron Bernstein to solve the problem of brain shift during cranial procedures. Fairbanks saw the technology's potential far beyond neuroscience and joined to steer the company toward orthopedics. The result is a 3D spatial computing platform that tracks anatomy in real time at 254-micron accuracy — without pins, arrays, or registration. Fairbanks walks through how VISIE built all its hardware and software in-house to push the limits of what's possible, why that Apollo 13 engineering mentality defines the company's culture, and what it took to go from four scans per second to over twenty-five.

This episode also covers the business side of deep tech innovation: how VISIE navigates the sub-component regulatory pathway, what partnership conversations with strategic companies actually sound like, how 16 patents in eight months shaped their IP strategy, and why the board in the other room still reads “patients treated: zero.” Whether you're a surgeon curious about pin-free tracking or a founder building something no one has built before, this is a candid look at what it takes to bring genuinely new technology to the operating room.

Learn more about VISIE at https://visievision.com

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 From neuroscience startup to surgical vision company
03:55 Launching Velys robotics at DePuy Synthes
07:44 What is continuous anatomic auto tracking
11:07 Why VISIE builds all hardware and software in-house
13:54 Teaching robots to see what surgeons see
18:30 The hardest technical challenge at VISIE
21:00 Validating deep tech with the surgical market
25:42 Scaling a startup with contract manufacturing
28:09 Regulatory pathway as a sub-component device
32:00 Protecting innovation with an aggressive IP strategy
35:09 Future of pin-free tracking in hips and knees
37:29 Advice for surgeon innovators starting a company

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #VISIE #DougFairbanks #PinFreeTracking #SurgicalRobotics #3DScanning #CAAT #OrthopedicInnovation #MedTechStartup #RoboticAssistedSurgery #ComputerVision #SpatialComputing

From Idea to Market: Ep 5 - Financing the Journey

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Most MedTech founders think financing is about getting enough money to keep building. But once you take capital, it reshapes your governance, your priorities, and your pace — and some consequences don't surface for years.

In this episode of the AHF Podcast's From Idea to Market series, we explore what funding actually buys beyond time and resources, how capital decisions redistribute power within a startup, and which financing consequences only become visible years later. Founders, investors, and legal experts share hard-won lessons about navigating the Valley of Death — from choosing between equity and grants, to the real cost of starting as an LLC, to why royalty agreements shape cash flow long after the ink dries.

Whether you're a surgeon-innovator weighing your first funding round or an engineer planning a device company's financial architecture, this conversation lays out the structural, financial, and human realities of MedTech financing that most pitch decks never mention.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 The Valley of Death in MedTech startups

02:37 Meet the founders, investors, and experts

04:40 Startup runway and burn rate explained

06:04 How venture financing rounds work in MedTech

09:42 Grants vs equity and preserving ownership

11:08 How VC fund lifecycles pressure founders

13:06 Finding investors for hardware medical devices

18:16 LLC vs C corporation and hidden structural costs

22:09 Royalty streams and long-tail financial obligations

24:31 Approach financing like clinical design

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation

Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedTechStartup #MedicalDeviceFinancing #ValleyOfDeath #VentureCapital #StartupFunding #EquityDilution #RoyaltyAgreements #MedTechInnovation #SurgeonInnovator #FromIdeaToMarket

FITM: The Full Conversation with Robert Cohen

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Robert Cohen has spent four decades on both sides of the MedTech table — founding companies, selling them, and now evaluating billion-dollar acquisitions as Stryker's VP of Innovation and Technology for Orthopedics. In this conversation, he shares exactly what a global company looks for when it decides whether a startup's technology is worth acquiring.

Cohen's career reads like a timeline of modern orthopedic innovation. He co-founded Implex, the company behind trabecular metal, which was acquired by Zimmer. He then built a 3D printing company that worked closely with Mako Surgical, and when Stryker acquired Mako in what became one of its most successful acquisitions, Cohen came with it — returning to Stryker 23 years after he'd originally left. That rare vantage point, having been the founder pitching and the executive evaluating, shapes every insight in this episode.

From the reimbursement pressures reshaping which innovations get funded, to why founder ego can quietly kill an acquisition, to the 15-minute pitch structure that actually gets a company's attention, this is a conversation for anyone building a medical device and wondering what happens when a big company comes knocking. Cohen also looks ahead at where he'd put $10 million today and why the convergence of digital, AI, and enabling technology makes this the most exciting era in orthopedic innovation.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Four decades of MedTech innovation at Stryker
01:29 From startup founder to global acquisition leader
04:29 How Stryker evaluates technology for acquisition
05:38 Reimbursement challenges in medical device innovation
09:35 Assessing MedTech startups at different stages
12:11 Rising patient expectations and implant engineering
15:18 Why C corporation structure matters for startups
17:44 How founder ego affects acquisition negotiations
20:25 What large companies look for in acquisition targets
24:07 Post-acquisition integration and retaining talent
29:08 How Mako changed orthopedic robotics at Stryker
34:36 Where to invest $10 million in MedTech today
38:17 The 15-minute pitch that gets a company's attention

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #RobertCohen #Stryker #MakoRobotics #MedTechStartup #OrthopedicInnovation #MedicalDeviceAcquisition #TrabecularMetal #RoboticSurgery #3DPrinting #TotalJointReplacement #MedTechInvestment

The Team Behind the Surgeon: Efficiency Lessons From Canada

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Dr. Sebastian Rodriguez-Elizalde built a same-day anterior hip program inside a Canadian public hospital — not a private surgical center. This conversation covers what it actually takes to change your approach, your team culture, and your system all at once.

Sebastian trained in posterior approach at HSS and transitioned to anterior approach early in his independent career. In this episode, he talks honestly about the ego hit of relearning something you were already good at, the anxiety of operating without a safety net, and the decision to go all-in without giving himself the option to retreat. He describes surgery as choreography — a measured cadence where every team member understands the beats of the day.

What makes this conversation different is the emphasis on system change. Sebastian didn't just get faster in the OR. He brought his entire team to observe high-efficiency programs run by surgeons like Charlie DeCook and Kristoff Corten, then built a hybrid Canadian model from what everyone learned. He explains how overcoming institutional inertia in a public healthcare system requires patience, proof of concept, and the ability to speak the language of administrators, nurses, and anesthesiologists — not just surgeons. Whether you are early in your career or rethinking how your OR runs, this episode offers a practical blueprint for building something better without burning out.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and guest background
01:39 Why surgery is like choreography
05:58 Why team rhythm matters more than surgeon speed
08:03 Real constraints of a Canadian public hospital system
10:37 Overcoming institutional inertia to drive change
14:11 Post-fellowship growth and learning to lead system change
16:27 How measuring every surgical step changes your practice
18:41 Switching from posterior to anterior approach mid-career
23:19 Going all-in and what it teaches you about ego
26:00 Why the whole team needs to see high-efficiency surgery
30:09 Mistakes surgeons make building rapid discharge programs
32:04 Three non-negotiables for a high-efficiency OR
36:50 Evaluating new technology when every dollar matters
43:18 Career advice and the five percent growth rule

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #TotalHipReplacement #AnteriorApproach #SameDayHipReplacement #SurgicalEfficiency #RapidDischarge #ORTeamwork #HipArthroplasty #THA #SurgicalEducation #PublicHealthcare #RoboticsInSurgery #SebastianRodriguezElizalde

FITM: The Full Conversation with ForCast Orthopedics

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

This is a deep-dive extended interview with the team behind ForCast Orthopedics — a company working to change how periprosthetic joint infection is treated. It's for orthopedic surgeons, arthroplasty specialists, and anyone interested in how a clinical idea becomes a medical device company.

The conversation brings together Dr. Jared Foran (CSO and co-founder), Dr. Leo Whiteside (the surgeon whose intraarticular infusion technique underlies the product), and Peter Noymer (CEO). Together they trace the origin of the idea from residency-era frustration with antibiotic elution curves, through multiple failed prototypes, to the current catheter-based system designed to make Whiteside's technique practical and scalable.

The discussion covers the pharmacokinetic rationale for intraarticular infusion, the clinical and economic case for tackling PJI more aggressively, the regulatory strategy including Orphan Drug and QIDP designations, what it takes to pitch early-stage med tech to investors, and what ForCast's scientific advisory board actually does for product strategy. If you're curious about what a surgeon-founded company looks like from the inside — the pivots, the regulatory burden, the reimbursement complexity, and the moment the team knew the idea was worth building — this is the conversation.

Learn more about ForCast Orthopedics: https://forcastortho.com

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introductions
01:44 The clinical origin of the idea
02:57 Why intraarticular infusion works: the pharmacokinetic argument
06:00 What ForCast brought to Leo's technique
07:34 Peter's personal and professional motivation
08:46 The emotional spark that drove Jared to pursue it
10:35 Early questions and challenges developing the technique
13:30 Success rates and the evidence base
14:41 From good idea to viable company: the business case
16:49 Surprising early prototype results and what they revealed
19:15 Common mistakes new innovators make
20:00 How to approach investors before clinical proof exists
22:06 Orphan Drug and QIDP designations explained
25:21 FDA endpoints and what has to be proven
26:08 Balancing regulatory requirements with clinical reality
27:03 How the scientific advisory board shapes product strategy
28:53 What makes surgeons trust or resist a new technology
30:43 Feedback from early adopters
33:05 The kit that surgeons have been waiting for
33:25 The biggest barrier to hospital adoption
35:20 What true success looks like for ForCast
37:20 Timeline for widespread adoption
37:48 The hardest part of the journey
38:18 What "from idea to market" means after living it
39:14 Advice for the surgeon with an idea on a napkin
41:07 What has been most fulfilling
43:20 Closing thoughts

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #ForCastOrthopedics #PeriprostheticJointInfection #PJI #IntraArticularInfusion #MedicalDeviceInnovation #OrthopedicInfection #TotalHipArthroplasty #TotalKneeArthroplasty #ArthroplastyInfection #MedTechStartup #OrphanDrug

From Idea to Market: Ep 4 - Choosing the Vehicle

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

This episode is about the moment an idea needs a formal structure to move forward — and why that choice is just as strategic as any technical decision. It's for clinician innovators, med tech founders, and anyone trying to understand how organizational structure shapes what an innovation can realistically become.

The episode draws on voices from across the From Idea to Market series — surgeons, engineers, attorneys, and executives — to explore three questions: what determines the structure an idea ultimately inhabits, how early organizational choices constrain or enable future options, and when flexibility matters more than control. The answers reveal a consistent pattern: structure isn't a reward for having a good idea, it's a response to pressure from risk, timelines, and the need to move an idea out of conversation and into action.

Along the way the episode covers the strategic choice between licensing and building a company, the legal and social foundations that either protect or undermine long-term growth, why reimbursement complexity needs to be addressed before Series A, and what it actually means to lead without owning everything. Whether you're sketching an idea on a napkin or already deep in development, this episode reframes what it means to choose the right vehicle for your innovation.

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and series recap
01:39 Meet the contributors
04:32 What determines the structure an idea inhabits
06:13 Licensing as a deliberate strategy
07:47 When structure follows commitment, not a business plan
09:10 The moment the vehicle leaves the garage
10:41 How early choices become permanent tracks
11:30 Why slowing down early protects your leverage
12:36 Building a team around complementary gaps
13:30 Gradual engagement as a path into industry
14:05 Recognizing your role as a strategic advantage
15:27 When flexibility matters more than control
16:08 The founder's dilemma: distributing authority
16:45 Staying true to your design and your competency
17:28 Clinical need has to be proven with hard data
17:57 Designing for market access from the start
18:25 Reimbursement complexity as a structural challenge
20:09 Human factors and what surgeons actually need
21:26 Summary: three answers to three questions
24:05 What comes next: the role of capital

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation
Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedicalDeviceInnovation #MedTechStartup #HealthcareInnovation #OrthopedicInnovation #MedicalDeviceDevelopment #StartupStrategy #ClinicalInnovation #HealthcareEntrepreneurship #IntellectualProperty #MedTechLicensing

From Idea to Market: Ep 3 - Proof of Concept

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

This episode explores what proof of concept really means in medical device development — and why the hardest problems at this stage are rarely technical. It's for clinician innovators, engineers, and anyone navigating the gap between a promising idea and a product that can survive the real world.

The episode draws on perspectives from surgeons, engineers, and founders across multiple active med tech ventures. Together they walk through three questions that define this stage: what must be proven before an idea earns credibility, which assumptions survive first contact with reality, and how much uncertainty can exist before progress starts to stall. The answers are more nuanced than most innovation frameworks acknowledge.

What emerges is a clear picture of why proof of concept is less about building something and more about discipline — defining requirements, testing assumptions early, and being honest about what breaks. Whether you're developing an implant, a drug delivery system, a VR patient education tool, or an imaging platform, the logic is the same: ideas that survive this stage do so because the team was willing to find the failure modes before they became expensive ones.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and series context

01:26 Meet the innovators

03:41 What proof of concept actually requires

05:34 Why project plans are not just management overhead

08:36 Defining measurable success before you build

10:14 How large organizations evaluate proof of concept

11:37 When the engineering works but the system doesn't

13:33 Iteration as risk reduction

15:14 Moving from sophisticated to workable

16:22 Managing uncertainty without eliminating it

17:19 How market research reshapes feasibility assumptions

18:31 When scalability breaks the first prototype

19:08 The cadaver lab moment that validated the concept

20:55 Answering the three questions

23:06 What this stage is really protecting you from

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation

Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedicalDeviceInnovation #ProofOfConcept #MedTech #HealthcareInnovation #OrthopedicInnovation #MedicalDeviceDevelopment #FDADesignControls #ClinicalInnovation #HealthcareEntrepreneurship #StartupMedTech

How AI is Personalizing Hip Replacement Care

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Dr. Kristoff Corten built an AI-driven platform called Hip Cloud that predicts patient outcomes after hip replacement — and it's changing the way he practices. If you're an orthopedic surgeon interested in how predictive analytics, personalized care pathways, and clinic efficiency can reshape your workflow, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, Joe Schwab sits down with Belgian orthopedic surgeon and entrepreneur Kristoff Corten to explore how he went from feeling bottlenecked in clinic to building a data-driven platform trained on over 6,000 patients. Corten explains how Hip Cloud uses AI to predict the likelihood of a "forgotten hip" outcome, identify complication risks like postoperative sciatica or periprosthetic fracture, and guide shared decision-making with patients — especially in complex cases where surgery may not be the best first option. He walks through how the prediction model helps patients take ownership of their treatment decisions by showing them real probabilities rather than guesstimates.

The conversation also covers Corten's entrepreneurial journey, from solving an OR staffing problem that led to the Gripper retractor system, to his philosophy on building complementary teams rather than trying to run companies yourself. He shares his role in founding the European Anterior Hip Meeting and his vision for the future of hip surgery — where AI-driven outcome prediction merges with implant positioning to give surgeons personalized, data-backed guidance in the operating room.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Kristoff Corten and Hip Cloud

01:51 How AI predicts forgotten hip outcomes after hip replacement

04:00 Personalizing the patient journey from first visit to surgery

05:33 How hip coaches expanded clinic capacity without losing quality

07:14 Building an AI prediction model from 6,000 patient outcomes

10:32 Can other surgeons develop their own personalized prediction model

13:34 Using outcome data to identify modifiable risk factors before surgery

16:20 How shared decision-making changes when patients see real probabilities

19:52 Balancing a full surgical practice with entrepreneurship

24:53 Why OR staffing problems sparked a retractor innovation

30:54 Teaching anterior approach workflow philosophy beyond technique

34:22 How the European Anterior Hip Meeting started and where it's headed

41:31 The future of hip surgery: merging AI outcomes with implant positioning

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:

Show page: https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anteriorhipfoundation

Homepage: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #HipCloud #KristoffCorten #TotalHipArthroplasty #THA #PredictiveAnalytics #AnteriorApproach #HipReplacement #ForgottenHip #AIinOrthopedics #SharedDecisionMaking #EuropeanAnteriorHipMeeting #EAHM

From Idea to Market: Ep 2 - Shaping the Idea

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

This episode explores how orthopedic innovators determine whether a clinical problem is worth solving at scale. We examine the transition from recognizing a frustration in practice to building a defensible business case for medical device development.

Featuring perspectives from surgeons, CEOs, engineers, and legal experts, this conversation unpacks the critical questions that separate ideas worth pursuing from those destined to fail. We discuss burden arbitrage in periprosthetic joint infection, the four pillars of a viable business case, and why adoption friction kills even the best-supported innovations. You'll hear cautionary tales from early robotics adoption, lessons on regulatory pathways and reimbursement strategy, and practical guidance on protecting intellectual property while seeking objective feedback.

This episode is designed for orthopedic surgeons, trainees, medical device developers, and anyone involved in translating clinical insights into commercial products. Whether you're considering your first innovation project or refining your approach to evaluating opportunities, this discussion provides a grounded framework for making better decisions earlier in the process.

⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:37 Recap of Episode 1
02:25 Meet the Experts
05:07 Opportunity Recognition
07:06 Burden Arbitrage Example
10:39 Build the Business Case
14:26 De Risking and Adoption
16:06 Stress Test With Feedback
18:43 Friction and AI First Design
20:24 Legal Protection Early
22:08 Toolkit and Next Episode
24:52 Next Episode Preview

Listen to the AHF Podcast on your preferred platform:
Show page: [https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast](https://jvomedia.com/shows/ahf-podcast)
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahf-podcast/id1749521487
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CrGJyvRiQFTCU3FFFVvHc

Check us out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #FromIdeaToMarket #MedicalDeviceInnovation #OrthopedicSurgery #HipReplacement #KneeReplacement #PeriprostheticJointInfection #PJI #MedTech #ClinicalInnovation #BusinessCase #RegulatoryStrategy #Reimbursement #JaredForan #LeoWhiteside #DougFairbanks #EmilyAst #CharlesLawrie #AlexanderSah #SimonMifsud #Arthroplasty #SurgicalInnovation #HealthcareEconomics #PatentStrategy

From Idea to Market: Ep 1 - The Spark

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

This episode explores how medical innovation actually begins—not in labs or boardrooms, but in operating rooms, clinics, and patient encounters where routine practice no longer feels acceptable. We speak with orthopedic surgeons, engineers, and founders who've lived the journey from clinical frustration to real-world solutions.

Innovation doesn't start with a breakthrough moment. It starts when someone notices the same problem repeatedly and decides they can't look away. Through conversations with surgeons like Jared Foran, Leo Whiteside, Charles Lawrie, and others, we examine three critical questions: How does a problem shift from inconvenience to obligation? What signals that an issue is structurally ignored rather than simply unsolved? And why do certain clinicians feel compelled to act while others move on? This is the first episode in our "From Idea to Market" series, designed to make the innovation process more transparent for practicing clinicians and anyone fostering an idea right now.

Whether you're an orthopedic surgeon, trainee, researcher, or engineer, this episode reveals what the spark of innovation looks like in real life—and why noticing the problem is only the beginning.

⏱ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to From Idea to Market 03:44 Meet the innovators 06:38 When does frustration become obligation? 10:54 Structural neglect in healthcare systems 16:12 Why some people act and others move on 20:49 What we learned about the spark 24:06 Closing thoughts and next episode preview

Check us out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ahf-podcast

#AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #FromIdeaToMarket #MedicalInnovation #OrthopedicSurgery #HipReplacement #KneeReplacement #Arthroplasty #PJI #PeriprostheticJointInfection #ClinicalInnovation #MedTech #SurgicalInnovation #JaredForan #LeoWhiteside #CharlesLawrie #AlexSah #CharlieDeCook #PatientEducation #InformedConsent #HealthcareInnovation #OrthopedicResearch

From Idea to Market: A New Series on Innovation

Anterior Hip Foundation — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

This mini-series explores how medical innovation actually happens in practice—from the first spark of an idea to bringing a product to market. Whether you're a surgeon, engineer, researcher, or trainee with an idea, this series shows you what comes next.

We've gathered surgeons, engineers, CEOs, attorneys, and innovators who have navigated this journey firsthand. They share insights on developing medical devices, navigating regulatory pathways, building companies, and translating clinical problems into real-world solutions. This isn't about theory—it's about the practical realities of medical innovation from people who've done it.

This series is for anyone curious about the innovation process in orthopedics and medical technology, from early-career clinicians exploring entrepreneurship to experienced surgeons considering their first patent.

⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Series introduction
00:15 Meet the innovators

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

AnteriorHipFoundation #AHFPodcast #MedicalInnovation #Orthopedics #MedicalDevices #Entrepreneurship #Startups #ProductDevelopment #ClinicalInnovation #SurgicalInnovation #MedTech #OrthopedicSurgery

The Anterior Hip Learning Curve Nobody Warns You About

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Learning the anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty doesn't follow a straight line. Dr. Joe Schwab shares what happened when improving his femoral technique unexpectedly made his acetabular work feel worse—and why that unsettling experience taught him more than any single complication.

This episode is for orthopedic surgeons and trainees navigating the anterior approach learning curve, especially those who feel like their progress isn't linear. Joe walks through his own journey from posterior-trained resident to anterior-focused surgeon, including the cognitive challenges that don't show up in technique videos or course materials. He explains why the learning curve feels more like riding ocean waves than climbing a ladder, and offers practical guidance for managing the psychological demands of mastering a complex approach.

If you're somewhere in the middle of your anterior journey and wondering whether the struggle is normal, this conversation will help you understand what's happening beneath the surface—and give you permission to keep moving forward thoughtfully.

⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and disclaimer
01:08 Starting anterior approach out of the gate
04:51 The first plateau: getting good enough
06:10 The femur breakthrough and surprise setback
09:21 Understanding what was really happening
11:19 The waves: changing mindset over technique
13:58 What I wish someone had told me
16:19 Practical takeaways for surgeons on this path

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
The content discussed does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment. Clinicians should rely on their own training, experience, and clinical decision-making when applying information from this discussion.

Ask Me Anything: LFCN Issues

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

An engaging, AMA‑style deep dive into how to actually manage lateral femoral cutaneous nerve problems after anterior approach THA—from “my thigh feels weird” numbness to true neuroma‑level pain that drives patients crazy.

In this Ask Me Anything episode, host Joe Schwab answers a real listener question from Dr. Tim Keating: “What is your treatment algorithm for patients with LFCN dysesthesia, neuroma, and other lasting bothersome effects?” Drawing on both the meralgia paresthetica literature and his own practice patterns, Joe lays out a clear, stepwise pathway you can put to work on Monday morning.

You’ll learn:

•Why most post‑op LFCN changes are benign neuropraxias that need education and reassurance, not intervention

•How to structure medical management for persistent neuropathic symptoms: neuropathic agents, topical therapy, and desensitization strategies

•When an ultrasound‑guided LFCN block becomes both a powerful diagnostic tool and a therapeutic option

•Which small subset of patients might benefit from surgery (neurolysis, neurectomy/neuroma excision) and how to frame the “trade numbness for pain relief” conversation

•Where to draw the line and pivot to multidisciplinary pain management instead of chasing endless procedures

If you do anterior approach total hips—or you’re counseling patients who are living with anterior‑based LFCN symptoms—this algorithmic walkthrough will help you standardize decisions, protect patients, and avoid overtreating harmless numbness while still taking real pain seriously.

👇 Join the conversation

What’s your approach to LFCN dysesthesia and neuroma after anterior THA? Did we miss a key step, study, or technique? Drop your own algorithm, pearls, or favorite references in the comments so others can learn from your experience.

⸻

🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you get podcasts

📺 Watch more from the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF): YouTube @AnteriorHipFoundation

🗓️ New episodes: Fridays

Host: Joseph M. Schwab, MD

⸻

⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This content is for education and professional discussion only and is not medical advice. Patient details have been de-identified.

#AHFPodcast #AHFPodAMA #AnteriorHipFoundation #AHF #AnteriorApproach #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #Orthopaedics #MedicalEducation

Rethinking TFL Injury in Anterior Approach THA

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Protecting the Tensor Fascia Lata in Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty

🎥 Welcome to the AHF Podcast! Join host Joe Schwab as he dives deep into a revealing and award-winning study on tensor fascia lata (TFL) injury during anterior approach total hip arthroplasty with special guest H. John Cooper. Dr. Cooper shares insights from his prospective study presented at the 2025 AHF annual meeting, discussing how often TFL injuries occur, the critical steps to minimize such injuries, and how these findings can influence surgical techniques. This episode is packed with invaluable tips for surgeons at all levels, emphasizing the importance of preserving the TFL for optimal patient outcomes. 🏥💪

⸻

Are you interested in presenting a scientific paper, case report, or technique video/paper at the 2026 AHF Annual Meeting? Check out our Call For Submissions here:

https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf-2026-nashville/anterior-hip-foundation-2026-call-for-submissions-2026/

Make sure you hurry, submission deadline is March 1st, 2026!

⸻

🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you get podcasts
📺 Watch more from the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF): YouTube @AnteriorHipFoundation
🗓️ New episodes: Fridays

Host: Joseph M. Schwab, MD
Guest: H. John Cooper, MD

⸻

⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This content is for education and professional discussion only and is not medical advice. Patient details have been de-identified.

#AHFPodcast #AHFCallForSubmissions #AnteriorHipFoundation #AHF #AnteriorApproach #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #Orthopaedics #MedicalEducation

Operation FUBAR: I Bet You Can't Do That!

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, go here: https://youtu.be/6uohJmxA-eo

In Episode 2 of Operation FUBAR, Dr. Ben Feibel (adult hip & knee reconstruction, Louisiana) walks us through a case that began with a familiar challenge — “I bet you can’t fix that” — and evolved into a humbling sequence of decisions, revisions, and hard-earned lessons.

One thing that makes Operation FUBAR different: I don’t see the cases ahead of time. No slides. No roadmap. That’s intentional — so the reactions, questions, and conversation can stay spontaneous and genuine. 🎧✨

This episode explores reconstruction after a prior Girdlestone procedure, recurrent instability, and the moment when a case shifts from what can be done to what needs to be done. It’s also an honest look at the emotional weight that complications can carry — especially early in practice.

What we cover 🧠🔧

Complex reconstruction after prior Girdlestone + significant shortening
Anterior approach considerations in challenging anatomy and tight soft tissues
Early instability and recurrent dislocation
Escalation strategy: length/offset changes, dual mobility, modular stems
Advanced imaging (CT) and robotic-assisted cup placement (Mako)
Patient counseling when complications accumulate 💬
The “warrior mindset” vs. surgical restraint ⚖️

Why this matters 🎯

This isn’t a victory lap. It’s a real conversation about judgment under pressure, humility, and the importance of talking openly about complications and limitations — because that honesty is part of the work.

⸻

🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you get podcasts

📺 Watch more from the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF): YouTube @AnteriorHipFoundation

🗓️ New episodes: Fridays

Host: Joseph M. Schwab, MD

Guest: Ben Feibel, MD

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⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This content is for education and professional discussion only and is not medical advice. Patient details have been de-identified.

#AHFPodcast #AHFTravelingFellowship #AnteriorHipFoundation #AHF #AnteriorApproach #TotalHipArthroplasty #HipReplacement #RevisionTHA #Orthopaedics #SurgicalComplications #MedicalEducation

Reflections & Insights: AHF 2025 Traveling Fellowship - Part II

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Reflections & Insights: AHF 2025 Traveling Fellowship - Part II

The end of the year is a period of reflection for the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF). In this episode, host Joe Schwab takes a deep dive into the accomplishments of the AHF in 2025 and previews the exciting developments for 2026. Join us for a special two-part interview series with our 2025 AHF Traveling Fellows. Learn what sets the AHF apart and why it feels more like a family than just an organization. Curious about becoming a part of the AHF community? Attend the AHF 2026 Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, themed 'Consensus and Controversy.' Discover the unique opportunities the AHF Traveling Fellowship offers early career orthopedic surgeons to refine their anterior hip arthroplasty techniques, expand their perspectives, and form lifelong professional connections. Meet our guests: Jeremy Kubick, Qais Naziri, Michael Field, and Dr. Alex Sah, as they share their transformative experiences and insights. Don't miss this inspiring episode! 🎙️🦴 #AHFPodcast #AHFTravelingFellowship #AnteriorHipFoundation

Helpful Links:

AHF 2026 Annual Meeting: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf-2026-nashville/

AHF 2026 Traveling Fellowship: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf-2026-traveling-fellowship/

Reflections & Insights: AHF 2025 Traveling Fellowship - Part I

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Reflections & Insights: AHF 2025 Traveling Fellowship - Part I

Helpful Links:

AHF 2026 Annual Meeting: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf-2026-nashville/

AHF 2026 Traveling Fellowship: https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf-2026-traveling-fellowship/

What Makes a Great Hip Surgeon? Lessons from Michael Solomon

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

What does it really take to become a great hip surgeon — not just technically excellent, but trusted by patients, teams, and colleagues around the world? 🦴🌍

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab sits down with Dr. Michael Solomon, a high-volume hip and knee surgeon based in Sydney, Australia, who has performed over 10,000 hip and knee replacements and more than 900 joint replacements per year.

Together, they dive into:

How a young medical student from South Africa became a global leader in hip surgery 🇿🇦➡️🇦🇺
The mentors who shaped his approach — including legendary figures like Des Dall, John Steven, and Michael Millis
Why Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) became such a key part of his practice, and how he navigated the learning curve without becoming a zealot about any single approach
Where Anterior Approach fits (and where it doesn’t) in complex and high-risk patients
The role of periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) and hip preservation in young patients
How to set realistic patient expectations and why deep infection remains the complication that keeps him up at night
The importance of team culture, consistency, and routines in the OR — and why “don’t take shortcuts” may be the most important surgical rule of all
Advice for young surgeons on building a career: volume, humility, mentorship, and playing the long game 🧠💡

Dr. Solomon also shares his perspective on becoming a leader in the Anterior Approach community, his involvement with the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF), and how collaboration, data, and honest conversations are reshaping modern hip surgery.

If you’re a hip surgeon, trainee, or just someone facing hip surgery and wanting to better understand your options, this conversation is packed with insight, nuance, and practical wisdom. 🎧

👉 If you enjoy this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your questions or future topic ideas.

You can also find the AHF Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast apps, as well as in video form here on YouTube.

#AnteriorApproach #AHFPodcast #AnteriorHipFoundation #AHF

Operation FUBAR: The Case No One Wanted

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

🎙️ Operation FUBAR: The Case No One Wanted with Dr. John Horberg 🌟 | AHF Podcast

Welcome to the AHF Podcast! Join host Joe Schwab as we launch our new mini-series, Operation FUBAR! In this episode, Dr. John Horberg, an expert in anterior approach hip surgeries, walks us through a complex case full of unexpected challenges and innovative solutions. 🌟 Learn about the true ingenuity required when surgeries don't go as planned, and gain valuable insights into surgical problem-solving.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes!

Watch me on YouTube!

#AHFPodcast #AnteriorHipFoundation #AnteriorApproach #OperationFUBAR

2025 Great Debates: Every cup deserves a good screw

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Great Debate: To Screw or Not to Screw in Hip Arthroplasty

🎙️ Join host Joe Schwab for the thrilling finale of the AHF podcast's Great Debates series! In this episode, we're diving into the contentious topic of acetabular fixation with Dr. Michael Blankstein and Dr. Nicholas Mast. 💥 Dr. Blankstein argues that every cup deserves a good screw, emphasizing their safety, ease, and crucial role in complex surgeries. Meanwhile, Dr. Mast contends that modern implant designs make screws obsolete, likening their use to reinforcing a sturdy bridge with duct tape. 🤔 Who's right in this orthopedic face-off? Tune in to find out! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. 🧠🔧 #AHFPodcast #GreatDebates #AnteriorHipFoundation

2025 Great Debates: Obesity does not need to be optimized prior to Anterior Approach

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Great Debate: Obesity does not need to be optimized prior to Anterior Approach 🚶‍♂️🦿🩺

Welcome to the AHF podcast! In this episode, host Joe Schwab brings us an engaging and humorous debate on a pivotal question: 'Do we really need to optimize obesity before an anterior hip replacement?' Dr. Nicholas Webber and Dr. Todd Kelley go head-to-head, using props and personal anecdotes to present their cases. Dr. Webber argues against the necessity of optimization, citing his experience with anterior approaches, while Dr. Kelley counters with the merits of patient participation in their own optimization. Tune in for a lively discussion filled with insights, laughter, and a live demonstration. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! #AHFPodcast #GreatDebates #AnteriorHipFoundation

2025 Great Debates: The Hip-Spine relationship does not matter for Anterior Approach

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Great Debate: Does the Hip-Spine Relationship Matter for Anterior Approach?

🎙️ Join Joe Schwab in this intriguing episode of the AHF Podcast, where Dr. Nathaniel Nelms and Dr. Edwin Su debate a hot topic in orthopedics: 'Does the hip-spine relationship really matter for the anterior approach?' With thoughtful arguments from both sides, this episode delves into the importance of biomechanics and surgical techniques to achieve stable, durable, and predictable hip replacements. Whether you're a surgeon or simply interested in the nuances of anterior hip surgery, this discussion will sharpen your thinking! 💬 📌 Tags: #AHFPodcast #GreatDebates #AnteriorHipFoundation

2025 Great Debates: The Bikini incision is the BEST incision for AA

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

The Great Debate: Is the Bikini Incision Best for Anterior Approach Total Hip?

In this episode, we dive into a spirited debate on the bikini incision in anterior approach total hip surgeries. 🏥✨ Surgeons Brandon Naylor and Neil Sheth tackle the pros and cons of this technique. Does it lead to better cosmetic outcomes and improved wound healing, or does it come with increased risks? Let's hear their perspectives and some eye-opening data! 🩺🦴 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! #AnteriorHipFoundation #GreatDebates #BikiniIncision

2025 Great Debates: The HANA table is the best way to perform AA

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

The Great Debate: HANA Table vs. Standard Operating Table for Anterior Hip Replacement

Welcome to the AHF Podcast! In this second episode of the 2025 Great Debates series, host Joe Schwab introduces a spirited discussion on the use of HANA tables versus standard operating tables for anterior hip replacement. Surgeons Dr. Tania Ferguson and Dr. Atul Kamath present their cases—Ferguson advocating for the HANA table, citing its efficiency and reduced muscular injury, while Kamath argues for the versatility and cost-effectiveness of standard tables. This debate dives deep into technology, cost, surgical techniques, and the importance of the surgeon's skill. Join us for a compelling discussion that blends expert insights with a bit of humor. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts in the comments! 🎙️🦴✨

Dr. Ferguson’s slide can be found here: https://youtu.be/3rwzuWt44yY?si=Rtqd6sRqDe8JJ_4y&t=470

Dr. Kamath’s slide can be found here: https://youtu.be/3rwzuWt44yY?si=PVp0pfdqeIsSwqU3&t=428

2025 Great Debates: Collared stems are clearly superior to collarless stems

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Great Debates Return at 2025 AHF Annual Meeting: Collared vs. Collarless Stems 🏆

Welcome to the AHF podcast, hosted by Joe Schwab. In this episode, we bring back the Great Debates at the 2025 Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF) annual meeting. The episode dives into the spirited debate about 'Collared Stems vs. Collarless Stems' with Gillian Soles advocating for collared stems and Steve Lochow making the case for collarless stems. With a series of timed arguments and rebuttals, both presenters provide evidence and personal insights into the superiority of their respective approaches to the anterior hip replacement. The debate covers topics such as stability, revision rates, and ease of use. It promises to be both informative and entertaining. Tune in to see who comes out on top! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave your comments. 🏅

Transforming Hip Surgery from 2D to 3D: Insights on Anterior Approach and Advanced Tools 🦾👨‍⚕️

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Transforming Hip Surgery from 2D to 3D: Insights on Anterior Approach and Advanced Tools 🦾👨‍⚕️

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab discusses the revolution in anterior approach total hip replacement surgery with Dr. George Haidukewych from Orlando Health and Dr. Brad Waddell from the Carrell Clinic. The conversation explores the impact of 2D and 3D preoperative planning tools on shaping implant choices, enhancing accuracy in complex cases, and guiding intraoperative execution. Key technologies discussed include Smith+Nephew's CORIOGRAPH◊ pre-op planning, RI.Hip Solutions, CATALYSTEM◊ primary hip system, and the CORI◊ Surgical System. This episode highlights how precise planning and cutting-edge tools contribute to better patient outcomes and streamlined surgical procedures.

This episode is sponsored by Smith+Nephew. Learn more at smith-nephew.com

INOV8-ing Orthopedics: Dr. Stefan Kreuzer

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Innovating Orthopedics: Dr. Stefan Kreuzer's Journey

Join host Joe Schwab on the AHF Podcast as he interviews Dr. Stefan Kreuzer, an orthopedic hip and knee surgeon in Houston and founder of INOV8 Orthopedics. Dr. Kreuzer shares his fascinating journey from growing up in Switzerland to becoming a champion of minimally invasive techniques in the United States. They discuss his dyslexia diagnosis, his passion for technology in the operating room, and his innovative approaches to anterior approach hip replacement. Dr. Kreuzer also talks about his personal philosophy on continuous learning and the importance of optimizing surgeon performance. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that delves into the intersection of technology and healthcare, and how it can improve patient outcomes. 📈💼🦾 #AnteriorApproachTotalHip #AHF #InnovationInMedicine

From Croatia to South Africa: Chuck's Journey in Hip Surgery

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

From Croatia to South Africa: Chuck's Journey in Hip Surgery | AHF Podcast

Welcome to the AHF Podcast with your host, Joe Schwab! In this episode, we sit down with the trailblazing hip surgeon, Josip 'Chuck' Cakic. 🌍 Chuck shares his inspiring journey from Croatia to South Africa, his deep passion for hip surgery, and his innovative contributions to the field. Learn about his pioneering work in hip arthroscopy, the challenges he faced, and his role in introducing the anterior approach to hip surgery in South Africa. Whether you're an aspiring surgeon or just fascinated by medical innovation, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration. 🔬💪 Don't miss it! #AnteriorApproach #AnteriorHipFoundation #AHF

(Evidence + Impact) Anterior vs. Lateral Approach in Hip Fracture Surgery: What's Best for Recovery? 🦴

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Anterior vs. Lateral Approach in Hip Fracture Surgery: What's Best for Recovery? 🦴

In this inaugural episode of the AHF Podcast's new series 'Evidence and Impact,' host Joe Schwab delves into a recent award-winning paper by Woolnough and colleagues on the effectiveness of the anterior approach in hip arthroplasty for recovery. 📊 The study, titled 'The Anterior Approach Does Not Improve Recovery after Hemiarthroplasty for Hip Fractures,' was published in the Journal of Arthroplasty in 2025. The trial involves a comprehensive comparison between anterior and lateral surgical approaches, focusing on elderly hip fracture patients. 🏥 Joe dissects the methodology, findings, and limitations of the study, questioning whether the anterior approach truly offers a recovery advantage. 🧐 Key takeaways include the feasibility of randomized controlled trials in this demographic, the importance of functional outcomes, and the realization that surgical approach may not be a decisive factor for recovery. 🎓 Join the discussion in the comments and share your thoughts on this fascinating topic! 💬

Zotero

For those of you who use Zotero to mange your references, you can access the AHF Podcast Evidence & Impact Zotero group by clicking on the following link:

https://www.zotero.org/groups/6125247/ahfpod_evidenceimpact

Study Paper

Woolnough T, Horton I, Garceau S, Beaulé PE, Feibel RJ, Gofton W, et al. The John Charnley Award: The Anterior Approach Does Not Improve Recovery after Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture. A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Arthroplasty 2025;40:S17-S24.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arth.2025.04.030.

Additional resources used in preparing this video:

Hsieh Y-W, Wang C-H, Wu S-C, Chen P-C, Sheu C-F, Hsieh C-L. Establishing the Minimal Clinically Important Difference of the Barthel Index in Stroke Patients. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2007;21:233–8. https://doi.org/10.1177/1545968306294729.
Collin C, Wade DT, Davies S, Horne V. The Barthel ADL Index: a reliability study. Int Disabil Stud 1988;10:61–3. https://doi.org/10.3109/09638288809164103.
Pedersen TJ, Lauritsen JM. Routine functional assessment for hip fracture patients. Acta Orthop 2016;87:374–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/17453674.2016.1197534.
Pedersen TJ, Bogh LNB, Lauritsen JM. Improved functional outcome after hip fracture is associated with duration of rehabilitation, but not with waiting time for rehabilitation. Dan Med J 2017;64:A5348.
Winters AM, Hartog LC, Roijen H, Brohet RM, Kamper AM. Relationship between clinical outcomes and Dutch frailty score among elderly patients who underwent surgery for hip fracture. Clin Interv Aging 2018;13:2481–6. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S181497.
Unnanuntana A, Jarusriwanna A, Nepal S. Validity and responsiveness of Barthel index for measuring functional recovery after hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2018;138:1671–7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-018-3020-z.
Marsault LV, Ryg J, Madsen CF, Holsgaard-Larsen A, Lauritsen J, Schmal H. Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Its Association with Functional Independence, Quality of Life and In-Hospital Course of Recovery in Elderly Patients with Proximal Femur Fractures: A Prospective Cohort Study. Rehabil Res Pract 2020;2020:5907652. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/5907652.

Cut For Time: Anterior Total Hip Replacement in the (Super) Morbidly Obese with Dr. Bob Sershon

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Welcome to another insightful episode of the AHF Podcast! Join host Joe Schwab and special guest Dr. Bob Sershon from the Anderson Orthopedic Clinic as they dive into the challenges and solutions for performing anterior approach total hip replacements in super morbidly obese patients. Dr. Sershon shares his journey, training, and experience, providing invaluable tips on managing these complex cases. Learn about the importance of preoperative planning, patient selection, implant choices, and innovative techniques to ensure the best outcomes. 🦴💡 🎥 Highlights: - Dr. Sershon's background and practice - Impact of COVID on practice development - Challenges in performing anterior approach total hip replacements in super morbidly obese patients - Importance of preoperative planning and shared decision making 🗝 - Tips for handling large pannus and fat distribution - Implant choices, including stems, cups, and automated impactors - Detailed case studies and step-by-step surgical techniques 🛠 - Tips on post-operative care and follow-ups Don't miss this episode packed with practical insights and expert knowledge from the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF). Perfect for orthopedic surgeons, residents, and anyone interested in complex joint replacement surgeries. 💼👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️ 📅 Subscribe for more episodes every Friday! 🔗 Connect with us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and your favorite podcast apps. Keep your hips happy, healthy, and not too obese! 💪🩺

This episode is sponsored by ZimmerBiomet. Visit https://www.zimmerbiomet.com for more information.

ZimmerBiomet Z1 Femoral Hip
One System. One Solution. One Company.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

AHF LIVE - Sunday Aug 24 - Dr. Andrew Wickline's "March 2 A Million"

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

🚨 Special LIVE AHF Podcast Event 🚨

This Sunday, August 24th at 12pm (ET), join us for a powerful live broadcast featuring Dr. Andrew Wickline and his inspiring March 2 A Million campaign to break the cycle of opioid dependence following joint replacement surgery. 💪🦴✨

He’ll be joined by Dr. Henry Biggs and Dr. Kevin Smidt, two surgeons already signed on to this incredible movement. Don’t miss your chance to learn, interact, and ask questions LIVE!

🔴 Watch live on your platform of choice:

➡️ LinkedIn: Join Here

➡️ YouTube: Join Here

📅 Sunday, August 24th, 12pm ET

👉 Set a reminder and be part of the conversation!

#AHFpodcast #LiveEvent #March2AMillion #OpioidFree #JointReplacement #Orthopaedics #SurgeryInnovation

Look Back, Leap Forward. A Mid-Career Reflection with Dr. Khalid Yousuf

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join us in this episode of the AHF Podcast as host Joe Schwab sits down with Dr. Khalid Yousuf, an accomplished orthopedic surgeon based in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Yousuf shares his inspiring journey from his early struggles with choosing a career, to excelling in orthopedic surgery, specifically through the anterior approach total hip replacement. Learn about the pivotal moments, mentorship, and challenges that shaped his career. Discover the importance of thoughtful decision-making, lifelong learning, and the role of the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF) in his development. Don't miss this insightful discussion filled with valuable advice for both new and seasoned orthopedic surgeons! 🏥💉🦴👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️💪✨

This episode is sponsored by ZimmerBiomet. Visit https://www.zimmerbiomet.com for more information.

ZimmerBiomet Z1 Femoral Hip
One System. One Solution. One Company.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Advancing Anterior Hip Excellence in Latin America with Francisco J. Gómez Torres, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join us on the AHF Podcast Live as we welcome Dr. Francisco J. Gómez Torres, an orthopedic surgeon and innovator from Mexico. Despite a recent earthquake, Dr. Torres shares his journey from founding Osteofit in Mexico City to advancing the field of orthopedics through mentorship and global collaboration. Learn about his inspiration to pursue orthopedics, his experiences with anterior hip surgery, and his thoughts on bringing advanced medical practices to Latin America. Engage with our host Joe Schwab and hear insightful questions from our live audience. Don't miss this enlightening discussion!

Advances in Anterior Approach for Orthopedic Oncology: An Interview with Dr. Chris Johnson

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join us on the AHF Podcast as host Joe Schwab sits down with Dr. Chris Johnson, a leading orthopedic oncology surgeon and president of Orthopedics Northeast. Based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Dr. Johnson shares his extensive experience and insights on treating metastatic acetabular disease using the anterior approach. Learn about his background, the evolution of surgical techniques, and the benefits and challenges of using the anterior approach in complex oncology cases. This episode offers valuable information for orthopedic professionals and highlights advancements that can improve patient outcomes in orthopedic oncology.

Reconstruction, Revision, and Rural America (Interview with John Horberg, MD)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab interviews Dr. John Horberg. They first met in the fall of 2024 during the Revision Round Table series, where John's complex cases from rural Wyoming impressed Joe. John discusses his journey from Southern Illinois to building a successful total joint practice with Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Laramie, Wyoming. They talk about the logistics of running a practice with twelve locations and a fleet of planes to reach patients across the state, the value of preparation, and the complexity of handling revisions from an anterior approach. John also shares insights on building a supportive team, succession planning, and the challenges and rewards of practicing in a rural setting.

The Future of Anterior Approach in the UK (Interview with Mr. Jonathan Hutt)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join host Joe Schwab on the AHF Podcast as he discusses the nuances of hip disease and surgery with Mr. Jonathan Hutt, a consultant orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip reconstruction and preservation at the London Hip Unit. Jonathan shares his journey from a surgical trainee considering plastic reconstructive surgery to becoming a dedicated hip specialist. They dive into the details of hip preservation, the significance of the anterior approach in hip replacements, and the upcoming European anterior hip meeting. Discover how technological advancements are shaping their practice and Jonathan's vision for the future of hip surgery. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about hip care and innovations in the field.

Part II: Decoding Hip Resurfacing with Professor Justin Cobb

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab continues his in-depth conversation with Professor Justin Cobb, focusing on the specifics of performing hip resurfacing with the H1 ceramic on ceramic implant through an anterior approach. Professor Cobb provides a detailed walkthrough of the setup, techniques, and tools required for the procedure, highlighting the importance of complete capsulotomy and the differences from standard hip replacement surgeries. He also shares his insights on femoral head measurements, the role of fluoroscopy, and advice for dealing with challenging cases. Tune in to learn the nuances of hip resurfacing from a leading expert in the field.

Part I: Decoding Hip Resurfacing with Professor Justin Cobb

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab delves into the controversial topic of hip resurfacing with special guest, Professor Justin Cobb, an orthopedic surgeon and chair of orthopedics at Imperial College London. They discuss the history, challenges, and advancements in hip resurfacing, including Professor Cobb's work on the H1 ceramic-on-ceramic hip resurfacing. The conversation covers the intricacies of hip function, long-term outcomes, and future directions in hip arthroplasty. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion!

Legend Series: Prof. Frederic Laude, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Revolutionizing Hip Surgery: Anterior Approach with Prof. Frederic Laude - AHF Podcast

Join host Joe Schwab in an in-depth conversation with Professor Frederic Laude, a leading figure in anterior approach hip surgery. In this episode, they discuss the historical roots and key developments of the anterior approach, Laude's innovative educational methodologies, and his growing presence on LinkedIn. They delve into Laude's collaboration with Medacta to build a robust training system for surgeons and his role in organizing the European anterior hip meeting. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the advancements of hip surgery and the importance of comprehensive surgical education.

Cut for time: Surgeons and Contracts (with Joel Matta, MD)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 30 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Navigating Surgeon-Industry Contracts with Dr. Joel Matta | AHF Podcast
In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab sits down with Dr. Joel Matta to discuss the critical aspects of surgeon-industry contracts. Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Matta provides valuable insights on indemnity clauses, intellectual property, and the importance of legal counsel. He also shares tips for young surgeons on protecting their interests while collaborating with industry. Tune in to learn more about how to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship between surgeons and industry without compromising your legal and financial well-being.

Rewriting Patient Recovery (Interview with Andrew Wickline, MD)

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 23 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Revolutionizing Patient Recovery: Dr. Andrew Wickline's Mission for Opioid-Free Healing

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab interviews Dr. Andrew Wickline, an orthopedic surgeon, educator, and author committed to improving patient recovery and education. Dr. Wickline discusses his books 'Less Swelling, Less Pain' for total hip and knee replacements, the importance of patient engagement, and his groundbreaking '1 Million Patient Mission' to eliminate opioid addiction risks. The conversation covers the current landscape of patient recovery education, the benefits of the anterior approach, and future innovations in surgery and recovery.

Interview: Leandro Ejnisman, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 16 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Advancing Orthopedic Surgery in Brazil with Dr. Leandro Ejnisman

Join host Joe Schwab on the AHF Podcast as he explores the advancements in orthopedic surgery in Sao Paulo, Brazil, with Dr. Leandro Ejnisman. Dr. Ejnisman shares his decade-long journey of introducing the anterior approach to hip replacement in his community, the role of technology and innovation in modern surgery, and his vision for a future where robots play a crucial role. Dr. Ejnisman's insights also cover the challenges and successes in adopting new techniques and the importance of mentorship and ongoing education. Tune in to hear about his experiences and the growing trend of anterior approach surgeries in Brazil.

AHF Podcast Announcement!!

Anterior Hip Foundation — Tue, 13 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Interview: Alfonso Alias, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 09 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Revolutionizing Hip Surgery in Barcelona: Anterior Approach Insights with Dr. Alfonso Alias

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Joe Schwab chats with Dr. Alfonso Alias, a consultant hip surgeon from Clinic Barcelona, about the transformative impact of the anterior approach to hip replacement surgeries. Learn how Dr. Alias and his team have improved patient recovery times and hospital stays, and gain insights on the differences between anterior, posterior, and lateral approaches. Discover the challenges and solutions in optimizing efficiency within the public healthcare system, as well as Dr. Alias's advice for surgeons considering a switch to the anterior method. Tune in to hear about his experiences, mentorship, and his journey to adopting advanced surgical techniques.

Part II: From Posterior Approach to Anterior Approach

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 02 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join host Joe Schwab on the AHF Podcast for Part 2 of our roundtable discussion with Dr. Alex Sah and Dr. Michael Blankstein. This week, we delve into the future of the anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty, the nuances of revision surgery, and challenges that still need to be addressed. We also explore enabling technologies like the Hana table and fluoroscopy, and discuss the importance of being versatile in surgical approaches. Don't miss insights on patient outcomes, surgical techniques, and key recommendations for surgeons considering adopting the anterior approach.

Part I: From Posterior Approach to Anterior Approach

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join me as I talk with Dr. Alex Sah and Dr. Michael Blankstein about transitioning to Anterior Approach during their practice.

Season 2 Preview

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Join us April 25th for Season 2 of the AHF Podcast!

We are gearing up for our 2025 Annual Meeting: Appetite for Disruption. It is shaping up to be another EPIC event! Register by going to:

https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

and clicking on the "Register" button. See you in Nashville!

Part III: Examining Anterior Approach from Down Under

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In Part III of our series, Joe Schwab continues his discussion with Australian hip surgeons Patrick Weinrauch, Ilan Freedman, and Jit Balakumar, along with orthopedic sales rep Joe Scerri. They discuss the biggest disruptors in their practices, the importance of the surgical team, the role of technology, and their personal experiences with the anterior approach in hip surgeries.

Meet our guests:
Mr. Patrick Weinrauch - https://brisbanehipclinic.com.au/about-us/a-prof-weinrauch-orthopaedic-surgeon.html
Mr. Jit Balakumar - https://jitbalakumar.com.au/
Mr. Ilan Freedman - https://melbournehipsurgeon.com.au/

Joe Scerri - https://au.linkedin.com/in/joe-scerri-45a003254

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Part II: Examining Anterior Approach from Down Under

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In part two of our series, we continue our discussion with Australian hip surgeons Dr. Patrick Weinrauch, Dr. Ilan Freedman, Dr. Jit Balakumar, and orthopedic sales rep Joe Scerri. We delve into the challenges and controversies of Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) hip surgeries in Australia, discuss the impact of patient education via the internet, and explore the role of industry in advancing surgical techniques.

Meet our guests:
Mr. Patrick Weinrauch - https://brisbanehipclinic.com.au/about-us/a-prof-weinrauch-orthopaedic-surgeon.html
Mr. Jit Balakumar - https://jitbalakumar.com.au/
Mr. Ilan Freedman - https://melbournehipsurgeon.com.au/

Joe Scerri - https://au.linkedin.com/in/joe-scerri-45a003254

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Part I: Examining Anterior Approach from Down Under

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Joseph M. Schwab delves into the reasons behind the increasing favorability of the anterior approach in total hip arthroplasties in Australia. Featuring insights from hip surgeons Patrick Weinrauch, Jit Balakumar, Ilan Freedman, and Joe Scerri of Applied Medical.

Meet our guests:
Mr. Patrick Weinrauch - https://brisbanehipclinic.com.au/about-us/a-prof-weinrauch-orthopaedic-surgeon.html
Mr. Jit Balakumar - https://jitbalakumar.com.au/
Mr. Ilan Freedman - https://melbournehipsurgeon.com.au/

Joe Scerri - https://au.linkedin.com/in/joe-scerri-45a003254

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Revision Roundtable BONUS - ASIS/AIIS Double Osteotomy

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Find the video version here: https://youtu.be/VvwETRRkQxc

Meet our guest surgeons:
Dr. Kris Alden - https://www.krisalden.com/
Dr. John Horberg - https://www.premierboneandjoint.com/meet-dr-horberg
Dr. Aldo Riesgo - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/22587-aldo-riesgo
Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides - https://www.louisvillehip.com/
Dr. Charles Lawrie - https://baptisthealth.net/doctors/charles-m-lawrie/1888379

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Check out Dr. Yerasimides Anterior Approach Masterclass (including episodes on Acetabular and Femoral Revision) on YouTube! Find the playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDzGqZUR760dlZ8i9H78ZQuKRfBW5pXe7

Exploring Advanced Osteotomies with Dr. Aldo Riesgo

In this bonus episode of the AHF podcast, host Joe Schwab welcomes Dr. Aldo Riesgo to discuss the intricacies of anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) osteotomies and the combination of ASIS and AIIS osteotomies. Dr. Riesgo delves into the technical details and benefits of these approaches, particularly in challenging cases involving infection, significant bone lengthening, and complex pelvic reconstructions. Throughout the discussion, emphasis is placed on bone-to-bone healing, reducing morbidity, and continuous improvement in surgical practices. Additionally, the episode highlights the value of collaboration and innovation in orthopedic surgery.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:44 Discussion on ASIS Osteotomy
01:38 Double Iliac Osteotomy Technique
02:31 Case Study: Cadaveric Dissection
03:46 Managing Complex Defects
07:16 Innovations and Future Directions

Revision Roundtable BONUS - Stem Extraction

Joseph Schwab — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Find the video version here: https://youtu.be/JejtfUfpULE

Meet our guest surgeons:
Dr. Kris Alden - https://www.krisalden.com/
Dr. John Horberg - https://www.premierboneandjoint.com/meet-dr-horberg
Dr. Aldo Riesgo - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/22587-aldo-riesgo
Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides - https://www.louisvillehip.com/
Dr. Charles Lawrie - https://baptisthealth.net/doctors/charles-m-lawrie/1888379

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Check out Dr. Yerasimides Anterior Approach Masterclass (including episodes on Acetabular and Femoral Revision) on YouTube! Find the playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDzGqZUR760dlZ8i9H78ZQuKRfBW5pXe7

Advanced Techniques in Femoral Stem Extraction: AHF Revision Round Table Bonus Episode

In this bonus episode of the AHF podcast, hosted by Joe Schwab, experts discuss advanced techniques in femoral stem extraction. The episode covers detailed procedural steps, including the use of specialized burrs and osteotomes for effective removal of recessed shoulder implants and stems. Emphasis is placed on proper surgical positioning, incision strategies, and the use of force during extraction to minimize bone loss. Listeners are also encouraged to check out the accompanying video content on YouTube for a comprehensive understanding of these advanced procedures.

00:00 Introduction and Bonus Episodes Announcement
00:41 Surgical Techniques and Tools for Stem Removal
02:15 Positioning and Exposure Tips
04:34 Incision and Orientation Strategies
05:40 Advanced Techniques and Personal Experiences

Revision Roundtable Part II

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

AHF Revision Roundtable Part Two: Advanced Techniques and Patient Outcomes

In this episode of the AHF revision roundtable, Joe Schwab and co-host Dr. Charles Lawrie rejoin the panel of expert orthopedic surgeons, including Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides, Dr. Aldo Riesgo, Dr. John Horberg, and Dr. Kris Alden, to discuss femoral revision techniques. The conversation covers the detailed procedures and strategies for effective femoral exposure and release, the benefits of the anterior approach, and the use of outpatient settings for revision surgeries. Panelists also delve into technology and instrumentation needs, the potential advantages of new advancements, and the current limitations in anterior approach revision practices.

00:00 Welcome Back to AHF's Revision Roundtable
00:30 Techniques for Femoral Side Revisions
03:34 Challenges and Solutions in Femoral Revisions
06:46 Anterior Approach Benefits and Patient Outcomes
08:13 Outpatient Setting for Revisions
12:45 Instrumentation and Future Innovations
16:13 Closing Remarks and Additional Resources

Meet our guest surgeons:
Dr. Kris Alden - https://www.krisalden.com/
Dr. John Horberg - https://www.premierboneandjoint.com/meet-dr-horberg
Dr. Aldo Riesgo - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/22587-aldo-riesgo
Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides - https://www.louisvillehip.com/
Dr. Charles Lawrie - https://baptisthealth.net/doctors/charles-m-lawrie/1888379

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Check out Dr. Yerasimides Anterior Approach Masterclass (including episodes on Acetabular and Femoral Revision) on YouTube! Find the playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDzGqZUR760dlZ8i9H78ZQuKRfBW5pXe7

Revision Roundtable Part I

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

AHF Podcast: Insights from Expert Surgeons on Anterior Hip Revision Techniques

In this episode of the AHF podcast, hosts Dr. Joe Schwab and Dr. Charles Lawrie dive into the intriguing world of anterior approach hip revision surgeries with notable guests: Dr. Kris Alden, Dr. Aldo Riesgo, Dr. John Horberg, and Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides. The panel discusses their backgrounds, experiences, and tips for tackling hip revisions using the anterior approach. Highlights include the benefits of using the HANA table, strategies for consistent exposure and stability, and advice for surgeons looking to venture into anterior hip revisions. The episode is packed with expert insights on advancing surgical practice and achieving optimal patient outcomes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
01:03 Guest Backgrounds and Experiences
05:55 Discussion on Traction Tables
11:56 Tips for Surgeons New to Anterior Revisions
20:49 Equipment and Setup for Anterior Revisions
22:50 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Meet our guest surgeons:
Dr. Kris Alden - https://www.krisalden.com/
Dr. John Horberg - https://www.premierboneandjoint.com/meet-dr-horberg
Dr. Aldo Riesgo - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/staff/22587-aldo-riesgo
Dr. Jonathan Yerasimides - https://www.louisvillehip.com/
Dr. Charles Lawrie - https://baptisthealth.net/doctors/charles-m-lawrie/1888379

Register now for AHF 2025 in Nashville, TN! https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

Check out Dr. Yerasimides Anterior Approach Masterclass (including episodes on Acetabular and Femoral Revision) on YouTube! Find the playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDzGqZUR760dlZ8i9H78ZQuKRfBW5pXe7

The AHF Shark Tank

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0400

The AHF Shark Tank

In this episode, Joseph M. Schwab interviews Dr. Charlie DeCook, co-founder of the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF). They discuss the origins and evolution of the AHF Shark Tank, a platform for orthopedic surgeons and innovators to present their ideas to industry executives. The conversation highlights the importance of learning from feedback, the role of capitalism in innovation, and the shifting focus from implant technology to surgical techniques and tech innovations. They also touch upon the impact of the AHF Shark Tank on the broader orthopedic community and the potential advancements for the 2025 Shark Tank event.

Register for AHF 2025 today by going to:
https://anteriorhipfoundation.com/ahf2025-nashville/

2024 ePoster 2nd Place Dr. Brian Gladnick

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the AHF podcast, host Joe Schwab interviews Dr. Brian Gladnick from the Carrell Memorial Clinic in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Gladnick discusses his background, the history, and the growth of the Carrell Clinic, along with his research on automated impaction in total hip arthroplasty. His study discovered that selective use of automated impaction significantly reduces fracture rates during surgery. Dr. Gladnick highlights the benefits and offers advice for both current users and potential adopters of automated impaction technology.

Interview: Juan C. Suarez, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this AHF podcast episode, host Joe Schwab talks with Dr. Juan Suarez, an orthopedic surgeon from Baptist Health Orthopedic Institute, about his career journey, innovations in hip replacement surgery, and receiving the 2024 Joel Matta Award for Excellence and Innovation. They discuss his influences, career decisions, adoption of the anterior approach, development of cuptomize technology for surgical precision, and advice for aspiring medical professionals.

Interview: Atul F. Kamath, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

AHF Podcast Interview: Atul F. Kamath, MD

In this episode of the AHF Podcast, host Dr. Joseph M. Schwab interviews Dr. Atul F. Kamath, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the Cleveland Clinic. They discuss Dr. Kamath's extensive background, his journey in orthopedics, his involvement with the Anterior Hip Foundation, and his new role as the Treasurer for the organization. Dr. Kamath shares his insights on hip preservation, the evolution of hip surgery, and the importance of industry partnerships.

Interview: Charles M. Lawrie, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

AHF Podcast Interview: Charles M. Lawrie, MD

In this episode of the AHF podcast, Dr. Joseph M. Schwab sits down with Dr. Charles Lawrie, an orthopedic surgeon at Baptist Health in South Florida and the vice president of the Anterior Hip Foundation. They discuss Dr. Lawrie's medical education and training background, his journey with the anterior hip replacement approach, and his involvement and future vision for the Anterior Hip Foundation.

Interview: Neil P. Sheth, MD

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0400

AHF Podcast Interview: Neil P. Sheth, MD

In this episode of the AHF podcast, host Joseph M. Schwab interviews Dr. Neil P. Sheth, who is taking over the scientific program for AHF 2025. Dr. Sheth discusses his journey with the anterior approach to hip replacements, his involvement with Medacta, and his efforts in building a hospital in Tanzania to provide education and care in underserved communities. The conversation covers the challenges and successes of these initiatives and the future direction of global health efforts.

Introduction

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this introductory episode of the Anterior Hip Foundation (AHF) podcast, host Joe Schwab introduces the foundation, its mission, and its community of surgeon innovators, collaborators, and educators. The episode highlights the foundation's goal to advance hip surgery technology and techniques through shared experiences and industry partnerships. Joe also previews clips from conversations with notable AHF members, offering a glimpse of the insightful discussions featured in the first season. Tune in to learn more about the AHF's unique approach and how it fosters a supportive and passionate community.

Coming Soon: the AHF Podcast!

Anterior Hip Foundation — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:00:00 -0400