An orthopedic surgeon at the University of Utah Health, Brian Karamian, MD, was part of the
SpineLine 20 Under 40 class in 2023. We recently caught up with Dr. Karamian to talk about what it was like to win the award, as well as how his career has evolved since then.
To be part of the 9th Annual
SpineLine 20 Under 40 class,
click here. If you’d like to nominate an exceptional colleague,
click here. Candidates must be a NASS member in good standing, and born on or after January 1, 1986.
What was meaningful to you about becoming a 20 Under 40 winner?
Being named a
SpineLine 20 Under 40 winner was deeply meaningful because it represented recognition from peers and leaders within the spine community whom I respect greatly. Early in one’s career, much of the work happens behind the scenes—long hours in training, research that takes years to come to fruition, and a constant drive to improve patient care.
This award felt like acknowledgment not just of individual accomplishments, but of the collective effort of mentors, collaborators, and teams who helped shape my development as a spine surgeon. It also reinforced my commitment to contribute meaningfully to the field going forward.
Did winning the award feel like validation for all the hard work you’ve put into your early career? If so, why?
Yes, it did feel validating. Early career years are often marked by uncertainty, delayed gratification, and balancing competing demands of clinical care, research, education, and personal growth. Receiving the 20 Under 40 award provided reassurance that those efforts were being noticed and valued by the broader spine community. More importantly, it served as encouragement to continue pursuing high standards in patient care, academic inquiry, and professional service, knowing that the work had impact beyond my immediate environment.
Do you have any career updates since winning the award in 2023?
Since receiving the award in 2023, my clinical and academic focus has continued to evolve. I have developed a strong interest in spine oncology and was honored to be appointed Co-Director of the University of Utah Comprehensive Spine Oncology Program at Huntsman Cancer Institute. In this role, I work closely within a multidisciplinary team to advance the care of patients with complex spinal tumors.
In parallel, I continue to maintain a broad spine practice, treating the full spectrum of spinal pathology, and serve as the Medical Director of the orthopedic floor at University Hospital. I remain deeply committed to research, dedicating significant time to clinical and outcomes-based studies aimed at improving the quality and value of spine care.
Together, these roles reflect my ongoing goal to integrate clinical excellence, leadership, and academic inquiry in my career.