In this episode of The Spine Pod, co-hosts Courtney Schutze and Brady Riesgraf sit down with Dr. David Yam, a board-certified neurosurgeon at Prosser Memorial Health in Washington. Dr. Yam completed his medical education, internship, and neurosurgery residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, and with nearly two decades of experience, has since built a career rooted in clinical excellence and continually improving patient outcomes. Throughout his career, Dr. Yam has trained with some of the most respected names in spine, participated in early artificial disc replacement trials, and continually sought new ways to elevate his clinical understanding and expertise. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes how progress in medicine often comes from leaning into discomfort, asking hard questions, and being willing to evolve. Dr. Yam goes on to share how motion-preserving technologies and devices have become an important part of his surgical toolbox. Having participated in early clinical trials, he discusses the responsibility that comes with adopting new technologies thoughtfully, balancing innovation with evidence, patient selection, and long-term outcomes. Now mentoring the next generation of spine surgeons, Dr. Yam offers insight into what it means to practice with humility, curiosity, and accountability. From surgical decision-making to leadership in healthcare, this episode highlights how experience, honesty, and lifelong learning shape better surgeons and better care. In this episode you’ll learn: How to navigate complex healthcare and insurance systems when pursuing newer, motion-preserving technologies What patients need to know to better advocate for themselves in a complex healthcare system How conservative care, not surgery, is often the first option for patients struggling with back and/or leg pain What makes a patient a good candidate for motion-preserving surgery, and when the right time is to seek out surgical intervention The importance of patient trust, shared decision-making, and education in achieving better patient outcomes Dr. Yam’s reflections on mentorship, lifelong learning, and keeping a curious mind in spine surgery From sharing his philosophy on when patients should seek out surgical treatment, to providing a roadmap for patients to better understand their options, Dr. Yam offers clarity, perspective, and a human-first approach. Whether you’re a patient exploring your next step or a surgeon thinking about how to guide your own practice, this episode is full of insight. Learn more about Dr. Yam: Prosser Memorial Health: https://www.prosserhealth.org/services/spine-care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-yam-30060987/ You can find The Spine Pod on all Podcast Streaming Platforms, including: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSpinePod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DBzWfVt1ExQE0qTjhOERa?si=EEBPwQgRQSujyZsaXnJagA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-spine-pod/id1745442311 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/98fd41ad-75ee-4371-bb70-c5b274324a47/the-spine-pod?ref=dm_sh_kmfvSHB5iY109GDslhiJul22E iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-spine-pod-174320414?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false&autoplay=true Follow The Spine Pod to learn more about the latest episodes and happenings in the world of motion preservation: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespinepod... TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thespinepod The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.
