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

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Kyle Kunze, chief orthopedic surgery resident at Hospital for Special Surgery, sits down with Dr. Ayoosh Pareek, orthopedic surgeon and Medical Director of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health at HSS. Together, they explore the evolving role of AI in musculoskeletal care—from automating clinical workflows to enhancing diagnostic capabilities—and discuss how physicians are uniquely positioned to guide ethical and effective AI integration into patient care. The conversation spans current applications such as ambient scribe technology, predictive analytics, and AI-driven patient triage, as well as long-term possibilities like agentic AI and robotics. Drs. Kunze and Pareek also examine challenges around trust, explainability, and research integrity, offering insights into how clinicians and data scientists can collaborate to ensure AI tools are both safe and impactful. This episode previews the upcoming special edition of HSS Journal, guest edited by Dr. Kunze, focused on artificial intelligence and digital health in orthopedic practice.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Samuel A. Taylor, M.D., a sports medicine and shoulder surgery specialist at HSS, hosts an in‐depth discussion on long head of biceps tendon injuries with his esteemed colleagues—mentor Dr. Stephen J. O'Brien, MD, MBA, Dr. James "Beamer" Carr II, and Dr. Sri Pinnamaneni, M.D. The panel delves into the complexities of diagnosing and managing pathology within the biceps–labrum complex. They share personal anecdotes and historical insights that trace the evolution of treatment. Emphasizing that no imaging study can replace a thorough physical exam, the experts detail essential maneuvers and discuss the utility of ultrasound-guided diagnostic injections to pinpoint the true pain generator. With lively debate over whether to be a “biceps lover” or a “biceps killer,” this conversation offers valuable clinical pearls and practical strategies for shoulder surgeons navigating one of the most nuanced areas in sports medicine.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Austin Kaidi hosts an insightful conversation with Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi and Dr. Peter Derman on the evolving role of endoscopy in spine surgery. The discussion explores the advantages and limitations of uniportal and biportal techniques, touching on learning curves, radiation exposure, and cost-effectiveness. Dr. Derman makes the case for endoscopy as a transformative tool for select pathologies, while Dr. Qureshi reflects on its current limitations and potential for future integration with navigation and robotics. Whether skeptic or advocate, listeners will gain a nuanced perspective on whether endoscopic spine surgery is a fleeting trend or a glimpse into the future.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter K. Sculco, MD sits down with his colleague Dr. Gwo-Chin Lee, MD, to explore rapid recovery protocols for revision arthroplasty. They compare the well-established, outpatient-focused pathways used in primary joint replacement with the unique challenges of revision surgery—procedures that are longer, more complex, and less predictable. The discussion covers how preoperative optimization and intraoperative techniques must be tailored for revision patients, who often require a more cautious postoperative strategy. They also delve into discharge planning, noting that only a minority of revision patients are ready to go home within 24 hours, and share insights on postoperative care, including protocols for early mobilization, soft tissue healing with temporary knee immobilizers, and the selective use of rescue steroids. Tune in to learn how evolving rapid recovery strategies are being adapted to meet the needs of revision joint replacement patients while maintaining optimal outcomes.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Peter Sculco is joined by his father, Dr. Thomas Sculco—a renowned expert in joint replacement and director of the Complex Joint Reconstruction Center at HSS—to discuss the evolving role of cones in revision knee arthroplasty. They review how bone loss was managed prior to the advent of cones, the resurgence of impaction grafting, and the shift from hybrid to fully cemented stems for improved outcomes. Dr. Thomas Sculco shares his philosophy on the appropriate use of cones, cautioning against overuse due to cost and potential for unnecessary bone removal. The conversation also addresses complex re-revision scenarios and challenges with cone fixation in sclerotic bone. Blending decades of surgical expertise with insights on innovation, cost-effectiveness, and patient-centered care, this episode offers a thoughtful look at current trends in revision arthroplasty.

To learn more about The Stavros Niarchos Complex Joint Reconstruction Center at HSS, visit our HSS webpage and our X account.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Farah Musharbash, a spine surgery fellow at HSS, speaks with his mentors, Dr. Han Jo Kim and Dr. Francis Lovecchio, both expert spine surgeons specializing in complex spinal deformity correction. They discuss the evolution of spinal deformity surgery, advancements in surgical techniques, and the importance of preoperative optimization and postoperative recovery pathways. Their conversation highlights the role of high-volume centers, multidisciplinary collaboration, and cutting-edge research in improving patient outcomes. Tune in for insights into the current state of the art in complex spine surgery and the future direction of the field.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Jesse Charnoff, an attending physiatrist at HSS specializing in musculoskeletal sports and spine conditions, joins Anil Nandkumar, an advanced clinician and board-certified physical therapist at HSS, to discuss treating pickleball athletes. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, they explore the most common injuries seen in pickleball players, including overuse injuries, Achilles ruptures, and tennis elbow. They emphasize the importance of training for pickleball rather than just playing the sport, highlighting strength training, dynamic warm-ups, and proper equipment selection as key preventive measures. Additionally, they discuss treatment options such as physical therapy, PRP injections, and shockwave therapy, and how medical professionals can help athletes safely return to play. With insights from their experience covering Major League Pickleball events, they provide a comprehensive look at keeping players healthy while enjoying the game.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Joshua Bram, a current orthopedic surgery resident at HSS, speaks with Dr. Michael Ast, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in rapid recovery, short-stay, and outpatient joint replacement surgery. As part of the Young Physician Series, they explore different practice models and the process of finding the right first job. Their conversation covers key considerations for young surgeons, including private practice versus hospital employment, the evolving landscape of orthopedic practice, and strategies for navigating job searches. Tune in to gain insights into career planning and the diverse opportunities available in orthopedic surgery.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Austin Kaidi, MD, an orthopedic surgery resident at HSS, speaks with Dr. Sravisht (Chevy) Iyer, MD, a spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery at HSS. As part of the Young Physician Series, they explore the art and science of teaching trainees in a clinical setting. Their conversation covers strategies for adapting teaching styles to trainees at different stages of their careers, balancing patient care with education, and the mutual benefits of mentorship in the surgical field. Tune in to hear insights on fostering the next generation of orthopedic surgeons while enhancing your own practice.