Peter B. Derman, MD

I attend a lot of spine conferences. Balancing this travel with clinical practice and research while also prioritizing family is a juggling act that often involves red eye flights and brief stays. ✈️

But there are some meetings that are just too good to miss. One of these is the Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Annual Forum. Every year, I look forward to converging with likeminded friends from around the world to discuss the state of the art in minimally invasive techniques. Reading scientific journals is one thing, but participating in direct dialogue between thought leaders elevates us all for the benefit of our patients. Did I mention that it’s always in Las Vegas, which is a fun place even for spine nerds?! 🤓

There are minimally invasive means to perform a wide variety of spinal procedures, ranging from simple discectomies to complex revision operations. One reason I find spine surgery so intriguing is that there is room for creativity as we carefully push the boundaries of what is possible.

This recently published article describes an interesting surgery I performed – minimally invasive techniques were used to modify a spinal fusion performed decades ago with implants developed in the 1980s that are no longer on the market. Making a big incision and removing all of the old screws and plates would have been the most obvious strategy, but this results in substantial collateral damage and prolonged recovery. Instead, I used tubular retractors and muscle sparing techniques to remove only the top-most screws and then thread modern implants through the original plates. Rather than languish in the hospital for days after surgery, the patient was home in less than 24 hours with dramatic improvement in his symptoms. Now over two years out from this unique procedure, he continues to feel great!

We wrote up this technique so that other surgeons can employ it in similar situations. The full article can be accessed here: https://www.cureus.com/articles/221953-minimally-invasive-revision-of-luque-plate-instrumentation-a-case-report #!/

I had a great time teaching an endoscopic spine surgery course in Florida last week. It’s refreshing to see the excitement on the faces of the surgeon trainees as they acquire these skills and see for themselves that this ultra-minimally invasive technique is the “real deal.” It’s also fun to break bread and trade technical pearls with other faculty as we work together to advance the field.

Family, friends, fitness, and happy patients… these are a few of my favorite things! 🎶

I love getting messages like these within hours of endoscopic spine surgery. Don’t settle for a life with sciatica.

🎂 Thanks to my wonderful OR team for the tasty birthday sweets! It is a privilege to work with such an amazing group.

And thanks to my boys for the beautiful birthday art!

I'm beyond thrilled to be recognized again by D Magazine as a "Best Doctor" in Collin County. Several of my colleagues at Texas Back Institute and I are among a handful of spine surgeons in the region who have been selected for this designation. Personally, I am grateful for and motivated by this award. It reinforces my conviction that minimally invasive philosophies and techniques represent the future of spine surgery. I'll continue treating every patient like a personal family member and look forward to many years of service to come!

This nice young man went into surgery with severe sciatica and walked out without it. Results like these never get old!

Tonight’s endoscopic spine surgery webinar is in full swing… currently with over 1,300 live viewers from around the world. I just presented on transforaminal decompression techniques. Thanks to the International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery for hosting this great event.

What is a Lumbar Herniated Disc? - Explained by Dr. Peter Derman - Spine Surgeon in Plano, TX Dr. Peter Derman, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon at Texas Back Institute talks about one of the more common ailments in the spine, what it is, and how they...

"𝘼𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙤𝙣?"

Becker's Spine Review certainly thinks so! 😀 I'm proud to be listed as one of their 10 newsworthy young spine surgeons.

Being a "young gun" in the field of spine surgery allows me to bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and cutting-edge techniques (like endoscopic spine surgery) to my practice. I'm constantly learning, evolving and staying up to date with the latest research and technology.

My youth also helps me relate personally to young (or young at heart) patients who want to maintain active lifestyles.🏋️‍♂️ I understand the importance of getting them up and running. 🏃‍♂️ So here's to youth, vitality and the relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care!

(And don't worry... while I may not have been alive for that many years, I have been awake and working for most of it! 🤣)

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

Meet Kerry, a previously active and vibrant lady whose zest for life was being progressively dampened by debilitating pain radiating from her lower back into her legs. This persistent pain, due to lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the space for the nerves in the low back), was limiting her mobility and quality of life.

Kerry initially sought help from other spine doctors, who recommended fusion surgery with rods and screws due to the presence of spondylolisthesis (slippage of a spinal bone). However, traditional surgical methods weren't Kerry's only option.

When she came to me, I suggested minimally invasive decompression surgery -- a procedure that relieves pressure without causing instability, thus eliminating the need for spinal fusion. This technique preserves spinal motion and allows for a much quicker recovery. She was comfortably home within a couple of hours after surgery with immediate resolution of her previously limiting symptoms.

Fast forward three months after surgery, and Kerry was already conquering challenging trails around Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado, and even planning to ski again this year.

Here's what Kerry had to say: "I was afraid I'd never enjoy these beloved experiences before meeting Dr. Derman and team. I've recommended many friends and acquaintances to schedule a visit with Dr. Derman -- he helped me so much! Thank you for everything you all did to keep me moving. I'm looking forward to new adventures!"

If you or someone you know has been told they need spinal fusion surgery, it might be worth exploring other options. Get a second opinion. Don't let pain limit your life. Keep moving, keep exploring, keep living.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery; AO Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

“We are not beginners forever, but we never stop learning.”

It seems like ages ago that this first picture was taken… I was a medical student getting a first glimpse into the inner workings of the human body. Now over a decade later, I am a highly specialized spine surgeon, but I continue to seek out new knowledge and techniques. Conducting research, developing innovative devices, and interfacing with other experts from around the world allows me to continue to push myself and the field forward for the benefit of patients everywhere. There is always room for improvement so I’ll keep working to perfect this game of “Operation.”

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

"𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧..."

Family, food, fireplaces... and updates from
happy patients, past and present.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

I spent a day at joimax headquarters in Irvine, CA, this past weekend. A handful of endoscopic surgeons from across the country assembled there to try out the new biportal system, provide feedback, and trade tips and tricks. I always enjoy participating in these expert groups and come away excited about new ways to innovate and push the field forward. We’re busy adding to the endoscopic playbook.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

Sometimes the best spine surgery is a hip replacement.

There is considerable overlap in the symptoms of back and hip issues; and sometimes patients can have both. It is therefore important for surgeons to remove their "blinders" and think outside the bounds of their subspecialties. The low back cannot be assessed without considering the hips and visa versa. All too many patients have come to my clinic having already undergone a hip replacement for what turned out to be a spine issue or a back surgery for what was a bad hip all along. The key to avoiding this unfortunate occurrence is to really listen to patients' symptoms, perform thorough physical examinations, and scrutinize imaging studies. If questions remain regarding the source of the symptoms, injections targeting one or the other can provide additional diagnostic information.

Unsure about where to start? Some clues that an issue might be hip related is pain in the groin or pain when lifting the leg up to get out of the car. Pain radiating below the knee or associated with numbness or tingling is more likely coming from a pinched nerve in the spine. Find a hip or spine specialist who listens and takes the time to examine you.

In patients whose pain is determined to be coming from a combination of back and hip problems, I generally advocate for first addressing whichever is more painful or functionally limiting. Interestingly, fixing one problem often leads to improvement in the other as patients are no longer forced to compensate. Which is why... the optimal "spine" intervention might be a hip surgery!

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASSjojoimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

Carving a turkey is the closest I get to performing open spine surgery… because minimally invasive incisions don’t “cut it” on Thanksgiving! 😂

; InInternational Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASSjojoimax-joined minimal accessGlGlobus MedicalNuNuVasive ; AcAccelusHCHCA HealthcareTeTexas HealthTeTexas Health Center for Diagnostics & SurgeryReReturn To DutyTeTexas Back Institute ArArthrex Spine ; EsEspinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

"Dr. Derman gave me my life back! I suffered for several months with debilitating nerve pain in my left hip and leg from a small disc herniation at L4/L5. As an extremely active and fit 58 year old, this type of pain was life altering. Dr. Derman performed the minimally invasive endoscopic microdiscectomy that was recommended to me. I was almost immediately pain free! The surgery and recovery were simple compared to the pain I had been experiencing. I was up and walking in my neighborhood the same evening. I am now almost almost 8 weeks post surgery, living pain free, and back to enjoying life! Dr. Derman is a highly skilled surgeon with a kind and caring personality. I would strongly recommend him!"

It makes me so happy to see Berta back in action. She's traveling, exercising, and leading the active lifestyle she enjoys.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Texas Back Institute; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

𝘛𝘰 𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘢𝘺. I enjoyed teaching an endoscopic spine surgery course for residents and fellows from around the country last Friday. It was a quick trip even by my standards, but I had to jet back home to celebrate my son’s 6th birthday.

I always leave these teaching sessions even more excited about the future of spine surgery…. And that’s saying something because I’m a pretty excited guy at baseline. Budding surgeons are increasingly seeing the value of endoscopic techniques and seeking out training. It’s amazing how quickly the tides are turning. I feel fortunate to be riding this wave! 🌊 🏄🏻‍♂️

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; Arthrex Spine; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy

The band was back together again last week… two of the AO Spine Expert Groups met up in Boston for more great conversations and hands-on lab time. It’s always interesting to exchange insights from around the world as we work together to advance spine care for all.

And take a look at that New England fall foliage!

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy; Texas Back Institute; AO Spine; Arthrex Spine; North American Spine Society (NASS);Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

I'm beyond thrilled to be recognized again by D Magazine as a "Best Doctor" in Dallas. Several of my colleagues at Texas Back Institute and I are among a handful of spine surgeons in the region who have been selected for this designation. Personally, I am grateful for and motivated by this award. It reinforces my conviction that minimally invasive philosophies and techniques represent the future of spine surgery. I'll continue treating every patient like a personal family member and look forward to many years of service to come!

; joimax-joined minimal access; Texas Health; Globus Medical; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; NuVasive; Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery; North American Spine Society (NASS); AO Spine North America; AO Spine; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; Accelus; Arthrex Spine; HCA Healthcare; Return To Duty;

Attendance was at an all-time high at the Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Annual Meeting in Las Vegas this past weekend; and the increasing interest in endoscopic spine surgery was obvious. Not long ago, endoscopy was more of a side show, but now it is front and center.

I presented original research, lectured on endoscopic techniques for the cervical and lumbar spine, and caught up with fellow minimally invasive colleagues from around the world.

I’m proud that our Endoscopic Spine Research Group (ESRG) was well represented with a significant podium presence. We’re collecting, analyzing, presenting, and publishing data so that others can appreciate the benefits of this ultra-minimally invasive technique.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy; Texas Back Institute

Repost from Jeff -- a great guy, super athlete, and happy patient.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy; Texas Back Institute

I was in and out of Boston last weekend to lecture at the OSET conference. I presented an endoscopic posterior cervical foraminotomy and discectomy to a room of distinguished surgeons from around the country. This ultra-minimally invasive procedure has rapidly become one of my favorites -- it allows for safe and effective relief of nerve compression in the neck with extremely rapid recovery. Hopefully my passion is contagious and other surgeons will be inspired to adopt this game-changing technology.

A shout out to my partners and trainees who also helped represent the high-quality academic and clinical work we do at Texas Back Institute. And a special thanks to joimax for sponsoring the endoscopic session.

; International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery - ISASS; joimax-joined minimal access; Globus Medical; NuVasive; ; Accelus; HCA Healthcare; Texas Health; Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery; Return To Duty; ; Espinea Endoscopic Spine Academy; Orthopaedic Summit;