NASS DFNS CLASS OF 2026
Ripul Panchal, DO, FACS
American Neurospine Institute
Frisco, TX
Neurosurgeon
NASS Member Since 2009
What skills do you believe are most important for today's spine professionals to develop?
Adaptability is vital for spine professionals amid rapid advances in imaging, navigation, robotics, AI, and techniques; we must adopt innovations thoughtfully. Patients now access vast information, so listening, educating, and communicating are as crucial as surgical skill. Spine care extends beyond the operating room: understanding patient goals, clarifying options, and building trust are essential. Technical excellence must be paired with caring for the person behind the diagnosis.
Is there a NASS volunteer experience that had a lasting impact on you?
Serving as a committee member in the development of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines deepened my appreciation for the rigorous effort required to translate scientific evidence into actionable recommendations for clinical decision-making. The collaboration with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and clinical experiences was highly valuable.
What made the experience particularly meaningful to me was recognizing that the work we were doing could have an impact far beyond our individual practices. A well-developed guideline can help surgeons make more informed decisions, establish consistency in care, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
That experience reinforced my belief in the importance of evidence-based spine care and the responsibility we have as physicians to contribute to our specialty. It also motivated me to remain actively involved in NASS through research, education, guideline development, and mentorship.
What originally drew you to the field of spine care?
My chief resident—now a mentor and lifelong friend—introduced me to spine surgery’s complexity and rewards. I remain drawn to the field because similar cases invite diverse strategies and opinions, yet all aim for optimal patient outcomes. This blend of clinical challenge, ongoing learning, and collaborative diversity sustains my passion.