Gary K. Michelson

Gary K. Michelson at the 2016 Michelson Found Animals Gala

Gary K. Michelson is an American orthopedic spinal surgeon, inventor, and philanthropist. He is best known for his contributions to spinal surgery and his extensive work in medical device innovation. Michelson has over 950 issued or pending patents worldwide, primarily in the field of spinal surgery.

Early Life and Education

Gary K. Michelson was born on February 14, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended Central High School and later graduated from Temple University. Michelson earned his medical degree from the Hahnemann Medical College (now part of Drexel University College of Medicine).

Medical Career

Michelson completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Hahnemann University Hospital. He specialized in spinal surgery and developed numerous innovative techniques and devices that have significantly advanced the field. His inventions have improved the outcomes of spinal surgeries and have been widely adopted by surgeons around the world.

Inventions and Patents

Michelson holds over 950 patents related to spinal surgery. His inventions include various spinal implants, surgical instruments, and methods for spinal fusion and stabilization. These innovations have made spinal surgeries safer, more effective, and less invasive.

Philanthropy

In 2005, Michelson sold many of his spine-related patents to Medtronic for $1.35 billion. Following this, he established the Michelson Medical Research Foundation and the Michelson Found Animals Foundation. These foundations focus on medical research, animal welfare, and educational initiatives.

Michelson Medical Research Foundation

The Michelson Medical Research Foundation funds research in various medical fields, including regenerative medicine, cancer research, and neuroscience. The foundation aims to accelerate the development of new treatments and cures for various diseases.

Michelson Found Animals Foundation

The Michelson Found Animals Foundation is dedicated to animal welfare. It supports initiatives such as pet adoption, spay and neuter programs, and the development of non-surgical sterilization methods for pets.

Awards and Recognition

Michelson has received numerous awards for his contributions to medicine and philanthropy. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2011. He has also been recognized by various medical and scientific organizations for his innovative work in spinal surgery.

Personal Life

Gary K. Michelson resides in Los Angeles, California. He continues to be actively involved in his philanthropic endeavors and supports various educational and research initiatives.

Related Pages

• Orthopedic surgery
• Spinal fusion
• Medtronic
• National Inventors Hall of Fame
• Temple University
• Drexel University College of Medicine