08/27/2026
ISASS Remembers Gunnar B. J. Andersson, MD, PhD
The spine surgery world lost one of its giants with the recent passing of Dr. Gunnar Andersson. He will be remembered for his countless contributions to spine care, and the many roles he served - as mentor, partner, advocate, and friend. Among his many leadership roles, Dr. Andersson had a profound impact on ISASS, serving as the society’s President in 2014-2015, and Co-President the following year. He was instrumental in establishing ISASS as an ‘advocacy society’, holding our first seat on the AMA House of Delegates in 2014. The policy and advocacy foundation he helped build over a decade ago has a lasting impact on ISASS’s continued efforts to advocate on behalf of spine surgeons, patients, and our industry partners.
Frank Phillips, MD, former ISASS President, remarked, “Gunnar was indeed a remarkable person, spine surgeon, researcher, and leader. He was a mentor to me and the reason I moved to Midwest Orthopedics at RUSH. His accomplishments in the Spine field are unparalleled. Over the years I worked with Gunnar on numerous Committees and Boards and have yet to meet a person with his unique leadership style and ability to promote collaboration with a remarkable ability to bridge gaps. I will miss Gunnar’s advice and upbeat outlook.”
While we honor his contributions and celebrate his remarkable life and career, it is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our friend and colleague. Dr. Andersson, you will be missed.
