Program Chairs
Deb A.
Bhowmick, MD
Kenneth
Illingworth, MD
Joseph
Lombardi, MD
Brett
Rocos, MD
Alexander
Tuchman, MD
Michael
Virk, MD, PhD
Muhammad Abd-el-Barr, MD, PHD
Director
Hyun Bae, MD
Director
Melissa Erickson, MD
Director
Roger Härtl, MD
Director
J. Patrick Johnson, MD
Director
Lawrence G. Lenke, MD
Director
Christopher Shaffrey, MD
Director
David Skaggs, MD, MMM
Director
Course Highlights
Cedars-Sinai Spine at Cedars-Sinai, Duke Spine, and Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian are proud to collaborate for the 4th Annual Summer Spine Symposium. This year’s meeting will be held in vibrant Nashville, Tennessee, and will once again serve as a reunion for fellows, former fellows, and colleagues from our programs. While rooted in reunion, all practicing spine surgeons and fellows are warmly invited to attend. We look forward to reconnecting with you and your families while delivering a dynamic and engaging scientific program.
This outstanding meeting will feature:
- Lively debates, fascinating cases, and expert Q&A
- The continued return of our popular “Spinal Jeopardy!” session
- Plenty of time to enjoy Nashville’s renowned music, dining, and cultural experiences
- Relaxed social events enabling us to re-connect with friends.
Scientific Program and CME
CME information will be coming soon! This course will be CME-accredited.
Registration
Register by June 16 for the Early Bird price—automatically applied! All registration types are +$95.00 after June 16, 2026.
Registration includes program sessions, course materials, and meals and events listed in program.
Corporate/Industry Registration
Corporate representatives must register through an exhibiting company. Please contact Alison Matta for details or via phone at 630-681-1040 x300
Cancellation Policy
- You may cancel your registration for a full refund in case of health-related travel restrictions (from institution or state or federal government) or medical emergency.
- Cancellation for other reasons: Full refund less $95 administrative fee if cancelled prior by June 16, 2026. No refunds after June 16. Other costs incurred by the registrant, such as airline or hotel penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant.
- In the unlikely event that health restrictions prevent us from holding the Summer Spine Symposium in person, 50% of registration fees will be refunded, and 50% of registration fees will be applied either to a virtual meeting, or to next year’s meeting.
Registration Fees
Surgeon: $895*
Current Fellow, Resident, Allied Health, Admin: $125
Registration Deadline: June 16, 2026
*Speakers and current and former fellows of the three spine programs will be offered special discounts. Please contact Alyssa Doherty for details.
Location & Accommodations
Course Location & Accommodations
The course will be held at The Joseph, Nashville, TN, a sophisticated, art-forward retreat in the heart of SoBro, blending refined Southern hospitality with modern design, elevated dining, and walkable access to the city’s iconic music, dining, and cultural scenes
Address: 401 Korean Veterans Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203 — See Map
Rates & Room Types
Our guest block at The Joseph is available to registered guests only.
Deluxe Rooms, King or Queen/Queen: $329.00 (+tax/fees)
Booking Deadline: Monday, June 24. Please note the block may sell out earlier than this. After this date, or if the block sells out, rooms may no longer be available at the group rate.
Reservation Instructions
Make Reservations:
- Online: Reserve Here
- Phone: Call the hotel directly at (866) 912-1022 and mention the group name Summer Spine Symposium. The front desk is available 24 hours a day.
Hotel Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made 48 hours prior of the arrival date will result in one night’s room and tax penalty. In the event a guest holds a confirmed reservation and fails to check-in on the scheduled arrival date, a one night’s room and tax penalty will be assessed and the room will be released for the remaining dates.
Questions or problems with booking?
Contact Alyssa Doherty
Social Events & Nashville Activities
Fellowship Reunion Dinner
By invitation only
On Friday evening, our collaborating spine programs will host a combined Fellowship Reunion Dinner, bringing together past and current fellows for an evening of connection and conversation.
Enjoy sophisticated cocktails and Broadway views from the rooftop at The Twelve/Thirty Club, a Nashville hotspot for upscale events, live music, and creative cuisine.
Afternoon Activities
The Summer Spine Symposium offers exciting optional group activities on Friday afternoon July 17, designed to let you and your family experience the best of summer in Nashville. In addition to planned group activities, Nashville offers self-guided options such as live music, world-class museums, shopping, and exploring the city’s vibrant entertainment districts and parks.
Axe Throwing Competition
Join your fellow Challenge Cup participants in a competitive axe throwing event hosted at Bad Axe Throwing where you can step up to the target and put your skills to the test for the glory of your spine program. Lunch included. Closed-toe shoes are required for participants.
Cost: $150.00 p/participant
Time: 11:00 am lunch, followed by the Axe Throwing Competition; Conclude by 2:00 pm
Age Limits: All ages are welcome to participate with a parent/guardian present
Deadline: Sign up by June 30, 2026 to guarantee your spot.
Pickleball Tournament
All “Picklers” in attendance are invited to participate in the Summer Spine Pickleball Tournament, competing on behalf of Cedars-Sinai, Och Spine, or Duke Spine. Participate to win Challenge Cup points and glory for your home program!Cost: $65.00 p/participant
Time: 11:00 am start; Conclude by 1:00 pm
Age Limits: All ages are welcome to participate with a parent/guardian present
Deadline: Sign up by June 30, 2026 to guarantee your spot
All activities are located within walking distance of the hotel. Activities subject to change.
