The Department of Orthopedic Surgery spine section manages all varieties of diseases, disorders and trauma involving the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral spine. Dr. William O. Shaffer is the director of spine surgery for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. The Department of Orthopedic Surgery works collaboratively with the Department of Neurosurgery in managing disorders of the spine. At the PGY-4 level, the orthopedic surgery resident is an active participant while rotating on the spine service. John D. Kenney, M.D. is the Director of the Low Back Pain Program through the Department of Orthopedic Surgery.
Residents participate in the evaluation, diagnosis and management of difficult back pain problems.
St. Mary's Health Center in the County of St. Louis has a long working tradition with Saint Louis University. This suburban private practice based hospital has an active orthopedic staff. Dr. Lawrence Evans is the director of resident training at St. Mary's Health Center. These clinical faculty provide a diverse exposure to the private practice of orthopedic surgery. In addition, a hospital based clinic practice, staffed by the clinical faculty, allows the orthopedic resident an opportunity to be actively involved in the outpatient services at St. Mary's Health Center.