San Francisco Spine Surgeons

San Francisco Spine Surgeons evolved from the work of Dr. Lloyd W. Taylor, who came to St. Mary’s Medical Center in 1963. Dr. Taylor was the second-most decorated medical officer in the Second World War. He was Chief of the Orthopaedic Department at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C., and Chief of Staff at Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco. He was named to become Surgeon General of the United States Army, but he decided to come to San Francisco to start the San Francisco Orthopaedic Residency Program. Dr. James Zucherman and Dr. Ken Hsu were educated and trained by Dr. Taylor. In 1965, Dr. Gar Wynne joined Dr. Taylor and began doing spine surgery. In 1972, Dr. Arthur White joined Dr. Taylor and Dr. Wynne. He was sent around the world to work with the most renowned spine experts. He completed a spine surgery fellowship under Dr. Leon Wiltse. Dr. White was chosen to be the first international orthopaedic spine fellow. Dr. White developed the first back school in the U.S., realizing that patient education was key to success for maximizing results in spine care. This is an educational program that teaches practical information about care of the spine, posture, body mechanics, and conservative treatment and prevention of back problems. We believe that even if surgery is necessary, it is only part of the total rehabilitation program, which includes the education provided in back school.