University neurosurgeons Dr. Chris Shaffrey and Dr. Justin Smith have been named among the 18 best spinal surgeons in North America by professional newsletter Orthopedics This Week. The doctors were selected based on nominations and “a survey of … ‘thought leaders in the field,’” according to the publication.
Orthopedics This Week said these surgeons are “arguably the finest spine physicians, teachers, investigators or administrators in the country.”
Shaffrey and Smith are the only two surgeons to receive this honor in the state of Virginia. Both work at the University’s Spine Center, which provides comprehensive care — from physical therapy to surgery — to rehabilitate spinal cord injuries.
Shaffrey was also named one of the best 28 spinal surgeons in North America in 2013. Board-certified in both orthopedic and neurological surgery and co-director of the Medical Center’s neurosurgery spine division, Shaffrey also serves as the Harrison Distinguished Teaching Professor of Neurological and Orthopedic Surgery at the Medical School, where he is also an alumnus.
“It is always a great honor to be recognized by our peers,” Shaffrey said in a press release. “Considering that two surgeons from U.Va. were recognized, I feel it is really a reflection of the great spine care and research efforts by all the providers at the U.Va. Spine Center.”
Smith is an associate professor of neurosurgery as well as co-director of both the Spine Center and the neurosurgery spine division.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by my peers and to be listed among many of the giants in spine surgery,” Smith said. “I look forward to continuing to advance the care of patients with spinal disorders through practice and research.”
Smith credits this recognition to his “opportunity to be at top academic centers to learn techniques from masters in the field.”
“There are lots of opportunities to pursue research and advance the field,” Smith said.
He said he hopes the Spine Center will continue to support research and the enhancement of surgical techniques despite pressure to produce more clinically.
“There are many good surgeons at the Spine Center,” Smith said. “It is an environment where we collaborate with top-notch surgeons, whether or not they are recognized.”
Read More
Honor Committee plans Dorm Talks and finals week initiatives
By Lexie Stadler | 23 hours agoIn an effort to enhance student outreach and introduce incoming students to the Honor System, the Committee will reintroduce Dorm Talks in the Fall 2024 semester.
BREAKING: Two fraternities suspended, one terminated after hazing allegations
By Ford McCracken | YesterdayThe University’s chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha is the founding chapter of the fraternity, which was founded in West Range room 47 in 1868.
From the archives: April 22 – April 28
By Maisy Callahan and Grace Franklin | YesterdayThose opposed to the Mall feared closing Main St. would create inconvenience and traffic, which would in turn decrease the income made by merchants.
