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The Spinal Tap

How orthopedic surgeons have raked in billions through ties to medical device companies via consulting deals, royalties or ownership stakes, while patients’ injuries mount.

1 - 6 of 6 Results

The Spinal Tap

Federal Investigation Into Spine Surgeries Uses Mob Laws to Target Health Care Fraud

Investigators allege a Texas company that arranges spine surgery and other medical care for people injured in car crashes accepted bribes in violation of 1960s-era racketeering law.

By Fred Schulte

Feb. 8, 2022
The Spinal Tap

Crash Course: Injured Patients Who Sign ‘Letters of Protection’ May Face Huge Medical Bills and Risks

The letters function as liens that “protect” spine surgery clinics while patients could be left with inflated medical bills and unexpected health risks.

By Fred Schulte

Dec. 21, 2021
The Spinal Tap

Florida Spine Surgeon and Device Company Owner Charged in Kickback Scheme

Dr. Kingsley R. Chin and SpineFrontier were the subject of a recent KHN “Spinal Tap” investigation.

By Fred Schulte

Sept. 8, 2021
The Spinal Tap

Surgeons Cash In on Stakes in Private Medical Device Companies

Doctors tied to professional sports teams share in investment bonanza.

By Fred Schulte

Aug. 10, 2021
The Spinal Tap

Injuries Mount as Sales Reps for Device Makers Cozy Up to Surgeons, Even in Operating Rooms

Aggressive sales tactics have allegedly led surgeons to use defective or wrong-size implants, screws or other products on patients, including former Olympian Mary Lou Retton.

By Fred Schulte

Aug. 9, 2021
The Spinal Tap

Device Makers Have Funneled Billions to Orthopedic Surgeons Who Use Their Products

Federal officials say that some of the money changing hands has corrupted doctors and endangered patients.

By Fred Schulte and Elizabeth Lucas

June 17, 2021