The Shift. From 1992 to 2007 there was a shift in ideology of the group. The group’s emphasis evolved from product development to clinical outcomes research. The small group of individual surgeons expanded to a large, multi-center collaboration of spine surgeons and researchers across the US.

The early ISSG. The newly designated International Spine Study Group formed in 2007 with the goal of producing groundbreaking research that would advance the treatment of adult spinal deformity. DePuy Synthes Spine awarded the first grants for administrative purposes and to initiate two retrospective studies:

• Multicenter Retrospective Evaluation of the Results of Revision with Extension of Fusion from L3, L4, L5 to the Sacrum and Pelvis
• Multicenter Retrospective Evaluation of Operative versus Non-Operative Treatment of Adult Spinal Deformity: Clinical and Radiographic Features that Differentiate the Two Groups

The current ISSG. In 2009, an online database was initiated to allow for seamless data entry and centralized data quality assurance. In 2010, the ISSG Foundation was established as a non-profit 501(c) to fund the research. Today, the ISSG consists of many participating members and affiliates from sites across the country as well as a central administrative coordinator.

The Members. This committed group of orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and researchers share a passion for research, data reporting, and the science behind the treatment of adult spinal deformity. Their collective goal and vision for the future of spinal surgery culminates in an unparalleled contribution of the highest quality of spine research.