Passing the Editor in Chief Baton: A Time for Reflection and Future Vision

As we begin a new year with this first issue of the International Journal of Spine Surgery (IJSS), it is my privilege to turn over the leadership of this stellar journal to Jim Harrop, MD, an accomplished spine surgeon and scholar. He will lead the IJSS to even greater heights of relevance and recognition as a scientific and educational resource for spine surgeons around the globe.

Over the past 4 years, the journal has been awarded an Impact Factor, has navigated the challenges of online open-access publication, and is moving toward stable financial footing with an article processing charge that is one of the most optimal in the field. While the special issues continue, the journal has added an international focus issue along with video publication opportunities. Additionally, a formal Publications Committee of the International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery (ISASS) Board of Directors has been established to foster the growth of ISASS publications in the future.

Growth in each of these areas during my tenure reflects the dedication and hard work of the journal’s deputy editors: Albert Telfeian, MD; Sheeraz Qureshi, MD; James Harrop, MD, and more recently Isaac Moss, MD. Frank Phillips, MD, a former ISASS president, has overseen the special issues along with each issue’s guest editors. The IJSS is also indebted to the journal’s associate editors—Morgan Lorio, MD; Kai-Uwe Lewandrowski, MD; and Alex Park, MD, PhD—along with the senior review editors and the multitude of manuscript reviewers whose selfless efforts ensure that IJSS is a true peer-reviewed publication.

The challenges facing online publication to provide relevant, novel, internationally sourced reports and manuscripts will continue. Yet, as ISASS grows to meet the needs of spine surgeons and their patients, the future is bright for both the society and the journal.

As I conclude my tenure as editor in chief, following in the footsteps of Hansen Yuan, I must acknowledge and applaud the tireless effort of Audrey Lusher, the managing editor for IJSS and ISASS publications. Her thoughtful and organized approach to management is a true asset. I offer her my heartfelt thanks.

• This manuscript is generously published free of charge by ISASS, the International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery. Copyright © 2025 ISASS. To see more or order reprints or permissions, see http://ijssurgery.com.