The national average annual salary earned by neurologists and orthopedic surgeons varies by $260,000 according to Medscape's 2023 compensation reports. 

As part of Iowa City-based University of Iowa's takeover of Mercy Iowa City, the system will assume more than 1,000 of Mercy's contracts with vendors, suppliers and more, according to a Feb. 1 report from The Gazette. 

Here are five prominent surgeons in the field of sports medicine:

Bioengineering company Ossium Health has entered into an agreement with orthopedic device company Extremity Medical to distribute the OssiGraft viable bone matrix nationwide. 

The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care has released its 2024 "Certification Handbook for Advanced Orthopaedics," originally launched in 2018. 

As orthopedic and spine specialists seek new job opportunities within the field, some return to former employers after tiring of private practice, relocating or coming out of retirement. 

Stryker has launched an expansion of its Prophecy surgical planning system, Prophecy Footprint, that aims to offer surgeons comprehensive planning for the entire foot. 

Orthopedic surgeon Mark Kelley, MD, has rejoined Laurium, Mich.-based Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital & Clinics, according to a Jan. 31 report from the Iron County Reporter.

Memphis, Tenn.-based Campbell Clinic added two orthopedic physicians — Stephanie Chen, MD, and Kristina Quirolgico, MD. 

While the sudden popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss is sparking discussion among physicians, it could have positive effects on the orthopedic and spine industry. 

Neal ElAttrache, MD, performed knee surgery on T.J. Hockenson, a tight end for the Minnesota Vikings.

Becker's has reported on seven orthopedic surgeons and leaders who have retired from their posts or announced retirement plans since late last year. 

Healthgrades has released its annual list of the top specialty orthopedic hospitals by state, including several facilities in the U.S.' three largest cities: New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. 

While the average age of practicing physicians in the U.S. is 53.9, the average practicing orthopedic surgeon is 56, according to a 2023 report from Definitive Healthcare. 

Here are two recent layoffs in the spine and orthopedic industry that Becker's has reported on since Jan. 9:

Two playoff football games played on Jan. 28 determined that the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers are headed to the 2024 Super Bowl in Las Vegas on Feb. 11. 

Healthgrades identified the top hospitals for joint replacement in 18 states.

The looming physician shortage poses a unique threat to orthopedics.

Orthopedic and spine practices are constantly looking for ways to stand out, taking measures such as rebranding, changing their names and changing their logos. 

Dallas County Hospital in Perry, Iowa added two orthopedic surgeons to its team, according to a Jan. 29 announcement in the Des Moines Register.