Safdar Khan named to inaugural class of Distinguished Fellows of the North American Spine Society

Safdar Khan, vice chair for surgical innovation in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, has been selected for the inaugural class of Distinguished Fellows of the North American Spine Society (DFNS). The designation recognizes spine specialists who have demonstrated sustained excellence in clinical care, education, research, leadership and service to the spine community.

The honor places Khan among a select group of spine surgeons recognized for their contributions to the field of spine care. As a member of the inaugural class, he is among the first physicians to receive the designation, helping set the standard for future fellows.

Khan was formally inducted during the DFNS Convocation Ceremony at the North American Spine Society annual meeting Oct. 14 in San Antonio.

"This recognition is a tremendous honor," Khan said. "I am grateful for this opportunity and proud to represent UC Davis Health and Orthopaedic Spine Surgery on a national stage. Advancing spine care is a team effort, and I am fortunate to work alongside outstanding colleagues who share a commitment to innovation, education and exceptional patient care."

Advancing innovative spine care

At UC Davis Health, Khan has helped advance spine surgery through clinical innovation, research and education. He has expanded access to specialized spine care and championed the use of robotic guidance, surgical navigation, augmented reality and custom implants tailored to individual patients. These technologies are helping surgeons plan and perform complex procedures with greater visualization and precision.

Khan is also committed to preparing and mentoring the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons. Residents and fellows working alongside him gain hands-on experience with the emerging techniques while taking part in research to improve spine care and patient outcomes.

Working across disciplines

Khan is also helping shape the future of spine innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration at Aggie Square, UC Davis’ innovation hub for research, entrepreneurship and industry partnerships. His work there is creating opportunities to evaluate emerging surgical technologies, expand the use of robotic and augmented reality-assisted spine surgery, and move promising innovations closer to clinical use.

The collaboration also provides opportunities for residents, fellows and researchers to work across disciplines and gain exposure to technologies that could influence the future of spine care.

"This recognition reflects Khan's dedication to improving the lives of patients with spinal disorders and advancing our specialty through innovation, education and service," said R. Lor Randall, chair of orthopaedic surgery. "We are proud to see one of our faculty members recognized among the nation's leaders in spine surgery. His accomplishments reflect UC Davis Health's commitment to supporting faculty who are improving patient care, training future physicians and driving innovation in medicine."

Founded in 1985, the North American Spine Society is one of the largest multidisciplinary spine organizations in North America. The Distinguished Fellow designation recognizes members who have made meaningful, long-standing contributions to the society and the field of spine care through clinical excellence, scholarly achievement, leadership and service.

Learn how Khan is using custom implants to advance personalized spine surgery.