HSS Presents

In this episode of HSS Presents, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Peter K. Sculco sits down with Dr. Fernando Quevedo-González, PhD, to demystify the world of computational modeling and its transformative impact on joint reconstruction. They explore how technologies like finite element analysis allow researchers to break down complex physics into manageable pieces to predict how implants will interact with a patient's unique bone structure. The discussion highlights a future where AI-driven solvers and data from wearable tech could provide surgeons with real-time guidance on the optimal alignment and fixation for every individual. This episode is a must-listen for surgeons and engineers interested in how "digital twins" and predictive analytics are moving from the research lab to the operating room to improve outcomes in complex hip and knee surgeries.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Carlo Milani is joined by occupational hand therapist Dr. Aviva Wolff to uncover the unique musculoskeletal demands placed on musicians. The discussion challenges the traditional medical approach to vague overuse injuries, advocating instead for a holistic framework that treats musicians as high-performance athletes. From analyzing the biomechanics of instrument positioning to "micro-dosing" rest and correcting scapular instability, Dr. Wolff shares her evidence-based strategies for prevention and longevity. Ideal for providers and performers alike, this episode provides a roadmap for managing the intense physical endurance required for a life in music.

In this episode of HSS Presents, rheumatologist Dr. Caroline Siegel is joined by HSS colleagues Dr. Lisa Sammaritano and Dr. Jane Salmon to discuss managing pregnancy for patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. They emphasize that most patients have successful pregnancies, but conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) carry greater risks, including preeclampsia and placental insufficiency. Successful outcomes rely on preconception planning, which includes achieving quiescent disease for about six months on pregnancy-compatible medications and screening for antibodies. Dr. Salmon also shares exciting clinical trial results using a TNF inhibitor to improve pregnancy outcomes in high-risk APS patients.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Melody Hrubes, the medical director of the HSS Performing Arts Collaborative, speaks with physical therapist Alyson Mackay about specialized assessment and treatment for dancers. They utilize DARI (Dynamic Athlete Research Institute), a marker-free 3D motion capture analysis, to assess strength and movement patterns in functional and dance-specific movements. Other specialized tools include force plates for measuring even weight-bearing during jumps and the Kinvent dynamometer for objective strength assessments like the hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio. The episode highlights injury prevention, the value of cross-training (like Pilates), and specialized concussion goggles to guide return-to-turn and dance after injury.

In this episode of HSS Presents, Dr. Josh Bram speaks with orthopedic surgeons Dr. Peter Fabricant and Dr. Daniel Green about ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature athletes. They explain why traditional techniques risk growth plate injury and discuss specialized physeal-sparing procedures, including the modified MacIntosh IT band technique and all-epiphyseal reconstructions. The conversation highlights patient selection, imaging strategies, and graft choices that reduce re-injury rates while protecting long-term knee health. With insights from large multicenter studies and decades of pediatric sports medicine experience, the experts share best practices for safely returning young athletes to play.