Even as a child, Dr. Drew Brown knew where to look to see the big picture. Hours spent gazing into his reptile tanks often sparked questions about biology and how the world works. Little did he know — `taking a deep dive into the foundations of complex ecosystems, biomechanics and nutrition would unearth his biggest secret to medical innovation: seamlessly blending nature with science.

Dr. Brown’s contemplative mind inspires his forward-thinking surgical team as an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon. To Dr. Brown, innovation in minimally invasive spine surgery means helping patients avoid unneeded risk. By giving more patients access to the most advanced techniques, he can do just that. But Dr. Brown won’t stop there. He also works to enhance techniques and create new ways to help his patients find relief.

Dr. Brown always knew he wanted to help people, and while earning his medical degree at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, he realized he liked working with his hands. He went on to complete his orthopaedic residency, research fellowship and surgical internship at the University of Hawaii Residency Program in Honolulu. His next stop was California, where he completed his spine fellowship at the San Diego Center for Spinal Disorders. Then, his career went worldwide.

An industry pioneer, Dr. Brown treats patients with complex spinal conditions on a global scale. Every year he works in Ghana as an associate professor and volunteer spine surgeon at FOCOS Orthopaedic Hospital, where he sees the positive impact that minimally invasive spine surgery has on global communities in need.

Dr. Brown’s approach to patient-centered care means always deepening his knowledge of the inner workings of the world. Outside of the operating room, you can find him diving into books on string theory and quantum physics — or diving into the ocean while exploring his next unknown destination.