2024 Conference Chairs
Chairman
Robert G Frykberg, DPM, MPH, MAPWCA, FRSM, FFPM(Glasg)
Honorary Professor of Podiatric MedicineUniversity of Galway
Adjunct Professor
Midwestern University
Phoenix, AZ
Robert G Frykberg, DPM, MPH, MAPWCA, FRSM, FFPM (Glasg), is a graduate of the California College of Podiatric Medicine in 1976. Dr Frykberg went on to complete his residency training at the New England Deaconess Hospital in Boston. He served as the President of the Massachusetts Podiatric Medical Society and a Member of the Board of Registration in Podiatry. From 1992 to 1994, he attended the Harvard School of Public Health and graduated with a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in quantitative methods. After 21 years of private practice, Dr Frykberg accepted the position as Clinical Dean of the Des Moines University College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery prior to moving to Phoenix. After 15 years of dedicated service to our Veterans, Dr Frykberg has decided to retire from his role as Chief of Podiatry at the Phoenix VA Medical Center and as Director of the Phoenix VA Medical Center Podiatric Residency Program. He continues to hold the academic rank of Professor, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix and Adjunct Professor, Midwestern University Program in Podiatric Medicine. His research and writing interests have included all facets of lower extremity disorders, but are specifically focused on diabetic foot ulcers, infections, Charcot foot, and wound care. The author of nearly 100 peer-reviewed publications, he has also been the Editor of two textbooks: The High-Risk Foot in Diabetes Mellitus (1991) and the Diabetic Charcot Foot (2010). His expertise in the Diabetic Foot translated into hundreds of speaking invitations nationally and internationally with numerous lecture engagements in China, India, Russia, South America, the UK, Vietnam, Japan, Indonesia, Italy, and across Europe.
Co-Chair
Charles Andersen, MD, FACS, FSVS, MAPWCA
Chief of the Vascular/Endovascular Surgery Service (Emeritus)Chief of the Wound Care Service
Clinical Professor of Surgery UW, USUHS
Madigan Army Medical Center
Tacoma, WA
After graduating from Utah State University, Charles Andersen, MD earned his medical degree at the University of Utah where he also completed an internship and a one year of Surgical Training. He then entered the military where he completed his surgical residency at Madigan Army Medical Center and a Vascular Surgery fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He remained in the military where his positions included program director in General Surgery and Chief of the Department of Surgery at Madigan Army Medical Center for 20 years. After retirement from the Army, he remained at Madigan Army Medical Center as a Civilian Physician. He has spoken nationally and internationally on Vascular Surgery, Limb Preservation, and Wound Care. He has over 100 peer-reviewed publications. Currently, he is Chief of the Vascular/Endovascular/Limb Preservation Service and Medical Director of the Wound Care Clinic at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma Washington. He is a Clinical Professor of Surgery at the University of Washington and the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences.
2024 Faculty
Jaminelli Banks, DPM
Private PracticeSynergy 360
Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ
Abrazo Scotts Hospital
Scottsdale, AZ
Adjunct Professor
Midwestern University School of Medicine
Glendalle, AZ
Jaminelli Banks, DPM, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon. She serves patients at Ledesma Foot and Ankle in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr Banks utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach to treat patients to reduce their pain, improve their quality of life, and increase their activity levels. She specializes in the repair of foot and ankle injuries, as well as the reconstruction of deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, flatfeet, and high-arched feet. Dr Banks earned her Bachelor of Science in pre-med/biology, graduating summa cum laude from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She then worked at the National Cancer Institute at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr Banks continued her education, earning her podiatric medicine degree at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While in Philadelphia, she worked at the Gait Lab studying foot and ankle pathologies and assisted in developing athletic tennis shoes for Stride Rite for Kids. After graduating, she completed a combined seven-year surgical and research fellowship at the Carl T Hayden Phoenix VA Medical Center in Arizona. During this time, Dr Banks helped develop protocols for clinical trials and studied wound healing products with the goal of amputation prevention. She spent another year-long surgical fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Department of Plastic Surgery in Dallas, where she performed surgery on over 1000 patients in one year. Dr Banks received additional training in diabetic limb salvage and advanced wound reconstruction. She is also an adjunct professor at Midwestern University School of Medicine in Downers Grove, Illinois, and continues her work in clinical research. In her spare time, Dr Banks enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, and traveling.
Tracy Basso, DPM, FACFAS, FAENS
Managing PartnerBasso Podiatry Group
Davis, CA
Tracy Basso, DPM, FACFAS, FAENS, majored in physiology at UC Davis, and then went on to graduate from the California School of Podiatric Medicine in 1988. DrBasso has more than 36 years of wide and diverse medical and surgical expertise, both in podiatry, peripheral nerve surgery, and in limb salvage. Dr Basso is the managing partner for the Basso Podiatry Group, as well as three endovascular labs dedicated to limb salvage and amputation prevention. His specialty is lower extremity nerve surgery. Dr Basso is certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, and the Association for Extremity Nerve Surgery. Dr Basso holds Fellowship in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine, and the Association for Extremity Nerve Surgery. Dr Basso is dedicated to the treatment of neuropathy and has received training in advanced peripheral nerve surgery through the Mayo Clinic, including micro nerve surgery. Dr Basso is a past president of the Association for Extremity Nerve Surgery, and a past president of the California Podiatric Medical Association. Dr Basso demonstrates a kind and thoughtful approach to his patients, combining that with a depth of expertise as a foot and ankle surgeon. He is a sought-after peripheral nerve surgeon. He has lectured in various parts of the country in peripheral nerve surgery, wound care, and limb salvage. And is a published author in the area of wound care and limb salvage. Dr Basso is dedicated to his family, his church and his community. And he is an avid cyclist. He enjoys reading and music.
Devin Bland, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM
Prestige Medical CarePhoenix, AZ
Devin Bland, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM graduated from Midwestern University School of Podiatric Medicine in 2013. After graduation, he completed his surgical residency in 2016 at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. He furthered his surgical training by completing one of the premier surgical reconstructive fellowship programs specializing in Diabetic patients, Charcot, Revisional Surgery, and Pediatric Care with the American Foundation of Lower Extremity Surgery and Research in Alamogordo New Mexico. Dr Bland is board qualified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He practices in the private sector centrally located in Phoenix Arizona at Prestige Medical Care, a multispecialty group. Dr Bland has received many awards and special recognition for his surgical ability in treating advanced foot and ankle pathology. He has authored textbook chapters relating to bone grafting, served as a residency director, and continues to teach at Midwestern University in Glendale Arizona.
Andrew Boulton, MD, DSc, FACP, FICP, FRCP
PresidentWorldwide Initiative for Diabetes Education University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
Visiting Professor
University of Miami, Miami, FL
Consultant Physician
Manchester Royal Infirmary
Professor Boulton is a graduate of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and subsequently trained in Sheffield, and Miami prior to accepting an appointment at Manchester University. He has authored more than 550 peer-reviewed manuscripts (H-Index >130) and book chapters, mainly on diabetic lower limb and renal complications. Among his many awards, he has received the ADA’s Roger Pecoraro Lectureship, the EASD Camillo Golgi prize and was the first recipient of the international award on diabetic foot research. He was the 2008 winner of the ADA’s Harold Rifkin award for distinguished international service in diabetes. He received the 2012 Georgetown distinguished achievement award in diabetic limb salvage. In 2015 he visited Nagoya, Japan and gave a prize lecture on diabetic complications at the Japan Society of Diabetes, and in 2017 was the Banting Memorial Lecturer at Diabetes UK and also received the International Diabetes Endocrinologist Award of the year from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. A previous editor of Diabetic Medicine he is currently the senior associate editor of Diabetes Care. In 2019 he was ranked the number one UK diabetes researcher in the field of complications. He was the founding Chairman of the Diabetic Foot Study Group and was previously Chairman of Postgraduate Education and then Hon. Secretary/ programme chair for the EASD. Until late 2015 he was President of the EASD. Currently, President, International Diabetes Federation, and Chairman of EURADIA (European Alliance for Diabetes Research).
Christopher K Bromley, DPM, FACFAS
Delray Beach, FloridaChristopher Bromley, DPM, FACFAS currently practices foot and ankle surgery in Delray Beach, Florida. Dr Bromley's specialty within the group is Surgery, Sports Medicine, and Homeopathy. Dr Bromley has been passionate about nutrition and complementary medicine since entering private practice. He completed his surgical residency in 1992 in Baltimore, MD. His training included such prestigious hospitals as the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins. An international and national lecturer of foot and ankle surgery, wound care, and regenerative medicine. When not in the office and on the podium, Dr Bromley is an on-track performance driving instructor and motorcycle track day instructor. Dr Bromley is very proud of his three children Sarah, Kent, and Alexander.
Sung Byun, DPM
Podiatric SurgeonPortland VA Medical Center
Portland, OR
Sunghwan Byun, DPM, FACFAS, FABPM / CAQ in Amputation Prevention current works at Portland VA Medical Center as a podiatric surgeon. Dr Byun majored in biology at the George Washington University, and then went on to graduate from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in 2010. Dr Byun completed three-year residency of rigorous foot and ankle surgical and medical training including trauma, reconstructive surgery, diabetic limb salvage and preventative care at Virtua Health. During his residency, he was trained under a variety of podiatric surgeons and vascular surgeons including exclusively one to one base with orthopedic surgeon fellowship trained foot and ankle surgery. After completing the residency training, Dr Byun pursued 1 year fellowship training for podiatric Dermatology – Plastic Surgery at St. Luke University Hospital. After finishing the residency training and fellowship training, Dr Byun desired to have further training on diabetic foot limb salvage and reconstructive surgery. He felt a strong connection in his life after facing family experience of limb loss. He accomplished the South Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (S.A.L.S.A) Fellowship at University of Arizona College of Medicine under mentorship of Dr Armstrong and Dr Mills being his director. After his training, Dr Byun has da a variety of experience with podiatric medicine and surgery with the underserved patient population. Currently, he is working as a Surgeon in Portland VA Medical Center collaborating with the Prevention of Amputation in Veterans Everywhere (P.A.V.E.). He is a board director of Federal Services Podiatric Medical Association (F.S.P.M.A.) and a member of Healthy Equity & Advocacy Committee at American Limb Preservation Socieaty (A.L.P.S.) Dr Byun enjoys being with his family: his wife and twin boys in Oregon as he is spending time with his kids for his soccer practice.
Windy Cole, DPM, CWSP, FFPM RCPS (Glasg)
Director of Wound Care ResearchKent State University College of Podiatric Medicine
Independence, OH
Windy Cole, DPM, CWSP, FFPM RCPS (Glasg) is a native Ohioan. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Cincinnati where she graduated summa cum laude. She is also an honor graduate from the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr Cole has practiced in Northeast Ohio for over 22 years. She is an adjunct professor and Director of Wound Care Research at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. She is board certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Wound Management. She has been a dedicated wound care advocate for two decades with interests focused on medical education, diabetic foot care, wound care, limb salvage, & clinical research. Her passion to help others has led her participate in humanitarian efforts including a medical mission to Jordan in 2018 to aid the large Syrian refugee population seeking asylum from civil war. Dr. Cole has published numerous peer-reviewed and industry articles on these topics and is a sought-after speaker both nationally and internationally. She is a feature writer for Podiatry Management and Today’s Wound Clinic as well as a contributing writer for Podiatry Today. She is an Editorial Board member of Wound Management and Prevention, Podiatry Today, The Foot Journal, Wound Masterclass, Podiatry Management and Lower Extremity Review. She is also the Podiatry Section Editor for the ePlasty Journal and a Guest Editor for Foot and Ankle Quarterly. She is a wound care advocate on the forefront of wound research and was the 2020 World Union of Wound Healing Silver Medal Award recipient for her work in Technology-driven Research and the 2022 recipient of the Kaplan-Kanat Memorial Lecture Award. Dr. Cole is a member of the ACCWS BOD. Additionally, she sits on the advisory board of multiple emerging biotech companies and has been integral in collaborating on innovative research protocols in the space.
Don Curtis, DPM, FACFAS
Assistant ProfessorMidwestern University
Glendale, AZ
Associate Professor
Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine
Glendale, AZ
Donald Curtis, DPM , FACFAS is a native of Salt Lake City, Utah and received his undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science & Health at the University of Utah. He went on to complete his medical training at the William M Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. Dr Curtis then continued his training at the Carl T Hayden VA Medical Center, in Phoenix, Arizona, completing a three-year surgical residency program. Dr Curtis joined Midwestern University in March of 2012, after eight years of private practice. He is course director for Advanced Pathomechanics, Podiatric Medicine II and Podiatric Emergency Medicine and Trauma. Dr Curtis is board certified in Foot Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He also remains an attending at the Carl T Hayden VA Medical Center, working with and helping train the podiatric surgical residents. Dr Curtis is involved with a variety of research activities here on campus ranging from tendon function, wound care and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. In the past, he has been involved with research in infectious disease and inter-professional education as well as being a contributing author to a textbook on Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Foot and Ankle.
Ryan Dirks, MS, PA, CWS
Chief Executive Officer/Chief Medical OfficerUnited Wound Healing
Puyallup, WA
Ryan became interested in caring for patients as a Physician Assistant with the goal of extending the hands of physicians and providing care in underserved areas. His passion for sports as an NCAA athlete and Olympic hopeful made sports medicine a natural fit. In 2011, he was introduced to skilled nursing wound care and felt a unique calling to provide specialty care in an often underserved area. The love for this work and increasing demand sparked the idea of starting United Wound Healing, and eventually his role as CEO led to full-time leadership and administration. He still volunteers at several local high schools providing sports medicine coverage. Ryan’s interests include spending time with his wife and their twin sons, physical fitness, and exercise. He also enjoys spending time in the outdoors, hiking, and fly fishing.
John N Evans, DPM, FACFAS, DABFAS
Chief of Podiatry, Beaumont-Corewell Hospital Dearborn, MIChair Emeritus, Health Policy & Practice Committee, American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
Medicare (WPS) Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) Emeritus-Representative, Podiatry, MI
Past Chair, Communications Committee, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery
Periperal Vascular Disease Council, American Heart Association, APMA Representative
John Evans, DPM, FACFAS, DABFAS received his DPM from the Temple University College of Podiatric Medicine and has a BS in Pharmacy from the University of Connecticut. He is board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (Foot and Ankle) and is Chief of Podiatry at Corewell Health (Beaumont) Medical Center in Dearborn, Michigan. He has served as Chair of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Health Policy and Practice Committee and as a Medicare Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) representative for over 20 years and was the 2018 recipient of the APMA Award of Excellence. He served as the Podiatric representative to the PAD Guidelines Writing Committee of the American Heart Assn. and American College of Cardiology which were published in 2024 and serves as the Podiatric representative of APMA to the AHA PVD Council. He is active with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, having served on multiple committees including their Board of Directors for eight years, and is the immediate Past-Chair of their Communications Committee. He is active with the American Limb Preservation Society on the Health Equity and Advocacy Committee as Co-Chair of the Research and Data Analysis Sub-Committee, the CLI Global Society, and as faculty for the New Cardiovascular Horizons organization. Dr Evans is a nationally recognized speaker on a variety of topics including Peripheral Arterial Disease, the Diabetic Foot, Limb Salvage and Preservation, Physician Burnout, Dealing with the Difficult Patient, and Mindfulness in Medicine. r. Evans is in private practice in southeast Michigan.
Michael A Fishman, MD, MBA
Interventional Pain MedicineLancaster, PA
Michael A Fishman, MD, MBA is an interventional pain management specialist who cares deeply about the accurate diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of patients living with chronically painful conditions. He is the expert that patients and other physicians choose to evaluate difficult cases with a fresh eye, and is known to formulate individualized ‘outside of the box’ cutting-edge treatment protocols. Dr Fishman is a double board-certified Anesthesiologist and Interventional Pain Specialist with extensive experience treating patients with a variety of painful conditions.
Ira J Gottlieb, DPM
Chesapeake Foot and Ankle CenterPasadena, MD
E. Lynette Gunn, APRN, GCNS-BC, CWCN, CFCN
Chief of Outpatient Nursing ServiceEastern Oklahoma VA HCS
E. Lynette Gunn, APRN, GCNS-BC, CWCN, CFCN is an Advanced Practice RN – Clinical Nurse Specialist with specialization in gerontological nursing, case management, wound and foot care. She has over 25 years of direct care nursing experience beginning with medical/surgical, pediatric, orthopedics, wound care, foot care, education, and telehealth. She is currently the Chief of Outpatient Nursing at the Eastern Oklahoma VA HCS. As the Chief of Outpatient Nursing, she is responsible for the development, maintenance, and expansion of Veteran outpatient programs – both in person and virtual Care for northeastern Oklahoma. Lynette received her Associate degree in Nursing from Connors State College in Warner, OK, her BSN in nursing from Washburn University in Topeka, KS, and her MS in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma. Lynette is a firm believer in active participation in professional practice organizations being a member of ANA/ONA, NACNS (National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialist) WOCN (Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses Association), AAWC (Association for the Advancement of Wound Care) and NOVA (Nurses of the VA). Presentation Experience: 1. Developed Skin School – A Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program for EOVAHCS in Muskogee, OK 2. Course Coordinator for Wound Treatment Associate Program (through the WOCN). Only one for State of Oklahoma. 3. Telehealth Trainer – Eastern Oklahoma VA HCS 4. Venous Insufficiency: Assessment and Treatment Strategies (2014) 5. Ethical Implications of Bullying – Session during “Workplace Bullying” (2015) 6. Implementation of a Tele-Wound Program (2018) 7. Use of Virtual Care during the COVID Crisis (2020)
Cathy Harmon, DNP, MSN Nrg Ed, FNP-BC, CWOCN
Wound and Ostomy Outpatient Clinic ProviderLake City VA Medical Center
Lake City, FL
Cathy Harmon, DNP, MSN, FNP Nrg Ed, FNP-BC, CWOCN is the Wound and Ostomy Outpatient Clinic Provider for the Veteran population at the Lake City VA Medical Center in Lake City, FL. The Clinic also provides telehealth services to the Veteran population in outlying rural clinics in South Georgia and North Florida. She serves the Veteran population as a memorial to her dad, a combat wounded WWII Veteran. Dr Harmon earned her nursing degrees - BSN, MSN in Nursing Education and DNP - from Florida State University. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (AANC). Dr Harmon received her wound care education from The Medical University of South Carolina, her Foot Care education from WebWOC and her Ostomy education from Emory University. She is certified in all 3 specialties through the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certifying Board (WOCNCB) where she also serves as a board member. Dr. Harmon is a member of the Wound, Ostomy, Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) and the Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC). She also serves as a reviewer for the WOCN and has published articles in the peer-reviewed journals Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing (JWOCN) and Ostomy Wound Management as well as several WoundSource blogs. Prior to coming to the VA, Dr Harmon’s nursing career included Acute Care, Pediatrics, Long-Term Care, Home Health Care and as Associate Professor in Nursing. Dr Harmon resides in North Florida with her husband, John, and dog, Vader. She enjoys running, martial arts, gardening, going to the beach and Tampa Bay Lightning hockey.
Evelyn Heigh-Rosen, DPM
Clinical Faculty & Assistant ProfessorArizona College of Podiatric Medicine, Midwestern University
Phoenix, AZ
Associate, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Medicine Diplomate, American Board of Wound Management
Evelyn Heigh-Rosen, DPM is an Arizona native and received her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Arizona State University. She received her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine at Midwestern University. Dr Heigh-Rosen completed a comprehensive foot/ankle medical and surgical residency at the Northwell Health Hospital System in Long Island, NY, and went on to continue her training with a fellowship at the UCLA-affiliated podiatry program in Los Angeles. Dr Heigh-Rosen is board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine as well as the American Board of Wound Management. She is board-qualified by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Dr Heigh-Rosen joined the Midwestern University faculty in March of 2022, after 3.5 years of practicing with a large multispecialty group in Phoenix, AZ. Dr Heigh-Rosen has a special interest in both treating and researching dermatologic conditions of the lower extremity. Dr Heigh-Rosen has contributed to the medical literature to improve the care of patients with lower extremity disorders and has presented at national podiatric medical meetings in the wound care arena.
Anil Hingorani, MD
Vascular Institute of New YorkBorough Park, Brooklyn, NY
Anil Hingorani, MD, is a board-certified vascular surgeon at the Vascular Institute of New York, located in the Borough Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, and an assistant professor at Mount Sinai Medical Center and SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn. Dr Hingorani has more than 20 years of experience treating a wide range of vascular conditions. After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), in Rensselaer, New York, with a Bachelor of Science in biology in 1988, Dr Hingorani attended Albany Medical College (AMC) in Albany, New York. Upon graduating in 1990, Dr Hingorani completed his surgical residency at St Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center of Columbia University in New York, followed by a vascular fellowship at Brooklyn’s Maimonides Medical Center. Dr. Hingorani has a broad range of experience in diagnosing and treating vascular conditions, and his specialties include vascular access, varicose veins, lower limb arterial disease, carotid artery angioplasty and stent, aortic aneurysm, and vein disorders. In 2019, Dr Hingorani was awarded the Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor and made the Marquis Who's Who in the World list. He has also authored numerous peer-reviewed publications throughout his career. As a highly respected vascular surgeon in his native state of New York, Dr Hingorani belongs to several professional organizations, including the American Board of Vascular Surgery, the International Union of Angiology, and the Society of Vascular Ultrasound. When he is not working with patients, Dr Hingorani enjoys spending time with his wife, son, and daughter.
Arpana Jain, Doctor
Dr. Arpana Jain is a Burn Surgeon and Associate Medical Director at the Diane and Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center. She is also an Assistant Professor of surgery at University of Arizona and Creighton University. She is the director of Ambulatory care at the burn center as well as medical director of the Laser Program and Burn surgery fellowship. Dr Jain received training in Burn Surgery with emphasis on pediatric burns at University of California and Shriner’s Hospital. Her practice includes caring for patients suffering from both acute burn injury and late effects of burns, with a special focus on critically ill burn patients, reconstruction of burn scars and pediatric burn care. She has authored many journal articles, guidelines, and book chapters. She is an internationally recognized leader in burn care.
Vin Jain, MD
Dr. Vinamra Jain leads Synergy Health 360, an integrated primary care and specialty services practice in Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Jain specializes in primary care, hospital medicine, and preventive care with a special emphasis on wellness. As an experienced family physician, Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and further training in Integrative medicine from the University of Arizona under Dr Andrew Weil. During his time as a physician, Dr. Jain has been licensed to practice in six states. He is a member of American Family Medicine, Society of Hospital Medicine, American Telemedicine Society. Dr. Jain is recognized for the exceptional care he provides to patients and specializes in lifestyle, healthy living and preventative care. He is leading change in the management of chronic disease by providing the care, attention and support patients need and deserve.
Lanise R Jamerson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Mental Health APRNEastern Oklahoma VA HCS
Muskogee, OK
Mrs. Lanise Jamerson is a Muskogee, Oklahoma based nurse practitioner who is specialized as Psych/Mental Health nurse. Mrs. Lanise Jamerson provides a full range of primary mental health care services, including biopsychosocial assessment and diagnosis of patients with mental illness and co-occurring disorders. Treatment modalities include both medication and psychotherapeutic management. Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) works in a variety of settings, including inpatient, emergency and community-based mental health services.
Christopher Japour, DPM
Podiatry Section ChiefPodiatry Residency Director
VA Illiana Healthcare System
Danville, IL
Christopher Japour, DPM, is podiatry section chief and podiatry residency director at the VA Illiana Healthcare System in Danville, IL. Dr Japour serves as an adjunct clinical instructor for Dr. William Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, and American Board of Lower Extremity Surgeons. Dr Japour received his doctor of podiatric medicine degree from New York College of Podiatry and completed his postgraduate training in podiatric surgery and medicine at New York College of Podiatry and Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. He is Fellowship Trained from Mount Sinai School of Medicine of the City University of New York.
Robert Kirsner, MD, PhD, FAAD
Chairman and Endowed Harvey Blank Chair and ProfessorDr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Robert Kirsner, MD, PhD, is Professor, Chairman, and the endowed Harvey Blank Chair in the Dr. Phillip Frost Dermatology in the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and Professor of Public Health Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He is Chief of Dermatology at the University of Miami Hospital and Clinics and Jackson Memorial Hospital and directs the University of Miami Hospital Wound Center. Dr Kirsner received his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University, his medical degree from the University of Miami, and a PhD in epidemiology from the University of Miami, after he completed his clinical training. His clinical training included internal medicine, a clinical and research fellowship in wound healing and dermatology at the University of Miami. His research interests include Wound Healing and Skin Cancer Epidemiology. Dr Kirsner serves as one of 3 academic editors for the journal Wound Repair and Regeneration and on the editorial boards for several other journals in dermatology and wound healing. Dr Kirsner serves in national leadership positions in both Wound Healing and Dermatology, including being immediate Vice President of the American Academy of Dermatology and serving as Vice President of the Wound Healing (he will President in 2026). In addition to career development awards, foundation, industry sponsored funding and CDC funding, he currently leads or is part of several NIH funded grants. Independent of books, book chapters and abstracts, he has published over 600 articles.
James C Knudson, DPM
Podiatric SurgeonMike O.Callaghan Military Medical Center
Nellis Airforce Base
Las Vegas, NV
James Knudson, DPM, Major USAF, BSC is currently serving at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada, and has been in active duty in the Air Force for the past 2 years working with the orthopedic department providing medical care, sports medicine and surgical care for foot and ankle injuries and chronic conditions. Dr Knudson started his military career serving 4 years as an enlisted member in the U.S. Army serving as a combat medic in the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, NC. After separating from the service, he completed an undergraduate degree at the University of Oklahoma earning a BS in Health and Exercise Science followed by Podiatry school at Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland OH, where he received a scholarship from the Air Force’s Health Professions Scholarship Program, and commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. Dr Knudson completed a 3 year residency at the Tampa VA hospital. After residency he started serving as an active duty podiatrist in the Air Force at Nellis AFB seeing active duty, guard/reserve, spouses and dependents as well as veterans throughout my day. Dr Knudson is married with two children 9 and 10 years old. When not in clinic or the OR he spends time outdoors with family and friends, exploring the southwest deserts and mountains, camping, skiing and hiking, or spending time at home completing renovation projects.
Diane La Tourelle
President1 Health Source, Inc.
Celina, TX
Diane La Tourelle is a seasoned pharmaceutical sales professional with over 28 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Throughout her career, she has developed deep expertise in promoting a wide array of pharmaceutical products, including specialty drugs, medical devices, and innovative therapies. Diane is known for building lasting relationships with healthcare professionals and excels at understanding customer needs, consistently delivering tailored solutions that enhance patient outcomes. With a strong foundation in clinical knowledge and a passion for staying ahead of industry trends, Diane has consistently exceeded sales targets, driving market share growth for leading pharmaceutical companies. Her ability to successfully navigate complex sales environments—from hospitals to private practices—combined with her skill in communicating effectively with physicians, pharmacists, and healthcare administrators has been key to her success. Diane is a results-oriented professional who blends a commitment to ethical sales practices with a strategic approach to territory management. In addition to her sales achievements, she is recognized for her collaborative spirit, mentoring junior colleagues, and contributing to cross functional teams. Diane graduated from the University of Manitoba and continues to engage in ongoing professional development in pharmaceutical sales and healthcare marketing.
John Lantis, II, MD
Vice Chairman of the Department of SurgeryChief of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Director of Surgical Clinical Research
Mount Sinai West
New York City, NY
John C Lantis, II, MD is the Vice Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Mount Sinai West and St Luke's Roosevelt Hospitals in New York City, where he is also the Chief of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. He holds the academic title of Professor of Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Dr Lantis' clinical practice spans the fields of Vascular/Endovascular Surgery, and lower extremity wound healing. He directs a clinical/basic science research program in the field of lower extremity wound healing and tissue repair and is published extensively. He is a founding member of the American Board of Wound Medicine and Surgery. He currently sits on the editorial board of WOUNDS and the Journal of Wound Care. In addition, he is a reviewer for half a dozen other journals. To date, he is/or has been the principal investigator on more than 55 multicenter and single center chronic wound and vascular surgery trials.
Bradley A Levitt, DPM
Bayview Physicians GroupVirginia Beach, VA
Bradley A Levitt, DPM, is a fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon. He received his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency training in podiatric medicine and surgery at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Following his residency, Dr Levitt completed an additional year of a reconstructive foot and ankle surgery fellowship at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, where he also served as Clinical Instructor for the Department of Orthopedics. Dr Levitt has published several articles and is a contributing editor for Diabetic Foot and Ankle. His interests include traumatic injuries of the foot and ankle, deformity correction, diabetic Charcot reconstruction, Ilizarov external fixation, and soft tissue coverage of the foot.
Michael Miller, DO, FACOS, FAPWH, WCC, AWCC
CEO & Medical DirectorMiller Care Group
Indianapolis, IN
Michael Miller, DO, FACOS, FAPWH, WCC, AWCC is the CEO and Medical Director of Miller Care Group. Dr Miller is a board-certified general surgeon who has been practicing chronic wound management since 1997. He has traveled all over the world and provided wound care and related education through lectures, peer-reviewed articles, and book chapters as well as volunteering annually in Honduras. He became certified in addiction treatment in 2015 and also provides advanced pain management. In 2010, he was honored by being named the Physician of the Year by the American Osteopathic Foundation. He is an Assistant Professor at Marion University College of Osteopathic Medicine where he lectures and mentors medical students.
Ralph J. Napolitano, DPM, CWSP, FACFAS
Director, Wound Care and HealingOrthoNeuro
New Albany, OH
Ralph J Napolitano, Jr, DPM, CWSP, FACFAS is a double board-certified podiatrist and wound care specialist physician specializing in medicine, surgery and wound care of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. He is the Director of Wound Care and Healing with OrthoNeuro, a multispecialty medical practice based in central Ohio. He is also an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Specialty Medicine at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Athens, Ohio. Dr Napolitano is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and a diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Wound Management. He was the first podiatrist in the state of Ohio to earn the board certification Certified Wound Specialist Physician (CWSP). He remains active publishing and lecturing locally and nationally on wound care and healing. In 2018, Dr Napolitano was the only podiatrist in the world to have an article accepted into the Cureus Journal of Medical Science’s publishing competition on negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell utilizing novel dressings. In 2019, during a limited commercial release, he was the first clinician in North America to trial DERMATAC™, a new single-use, proprietary silicone acrylic hybrid drape that is used as an accessory to NPWT systems. When not practicing medicine, Dr Napolitano enjoys spending time with his wife and their two children. His broad interests include music, golf, fishing, and mountain biking. Of particular interest is jazz music. His main instrument is the trumpet. Over the years he has studied, performed, and recorded with members of The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, The Columbus Jazz Orchestra, and the Saturday Night Live Band.
Collin E Pehde, DPM, FASPS
Director, Amputation Prevention and Research FellowshipLee J. Sanders Endowed Professor of Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention
Assistant Professor/Clinical Podiatry, Department of Orthopaedics
UT Health San Antonio
San Antonio, TX
Collin Pehde, DPM, FASPS is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery in the Department of Orthopaedics, Division of Podiatry at UT Health San Antonio. He holds the Lee J. Sanders Professorship in Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention and serves as the Director of the Amputation Prevention and Research Fellowship. Dr Pehde focuses his practice on the treatment of the diabetic foot. This encompasses preventive high risk diabetic foot care, acute and chronic wound management and advanced foot and ankle orthoplastic reconstructive surgery to prevent major limb amputation. He is dedicated to training medical students, residents, and fellows on their journey to becoming the next generation of podiatric surgeons.
Jessica Randolph, DPM
Founder and OwnerOnPoint Podiatry
Glendale, AZ
Jessica Vernola Randolph, DPM is the owner and founder of OnPoint Podiatry in Glendale, AZ. Her practice focuses on all aspects of Foot and Ankle Care. She has a large, diverse patient population treating individuals requiring advanced lower limb reconstruction to elite professional dancers and highly specialized athletes. She provides targeted care to her individual patient’s needs. Dr Randolph is a native of Phoenix, AZ. She is classically trained in ballet and many different modern dance techniques. She received her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Dance and Choreography from Arizona State University, followed by her Masters in Dance Education for Higher Education from New York University. While living in New York City she performed and taught for the Isadora Duncan Dance Foundation. While dancing, choreographing and teaching in New York City she was first introduced to the field of Dance Medicine. Dr Randolph returned to Arizona; performed, taught and choreographed as a member of the Movement Source Dance Company for five seasons. After graduating Cum Laude from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelors of Science with an emphasis in Biology she went on to her Doctorate Degree from Midwestern University in Podiatric Medicine. She then completed a rigorous 3-year surgical residency program at the Carl T. Hayden Phoenix VAMC. Dr Randolph has advanced surgical training in rear foot reconstruction, limb preservation, advanced wound care, Charcot foot reconstruction, joint arthroscopy, sports medicine and biomechanics. During her spare time Dr Randolph remains active in the dance community. She is an avid runner, tri- athlete, SCUBA diver, and tries to fit in a dance technique class when she can. She is happily married to her best friend a Veteran of the United States Air Force. Dr and Mr Randolph have two adorable Black Labrador Retrievers Revan and Malgus along with a cuddly cat Jade who fill their home with love and energy.
Julie Rhodovi, MBA, CWCA, LBBH
Chief Commercial OfficerTissue Health Plus
Julie Rhodovi is an accomplished, senior executive level professional, with health care strategy development, revenue cycle, payor and government relations, and contract relations experience. Her experience includes managing contract negotiations, field-based services, oversight of the cross-functional network service experience, and working with interdisciplinary management teams across the country to determine needed relations with payor organizations. She has worked in the post-acute care setting and the payor field for over 29 years, with direct experience in the building and launching of a Medicare Advantage plan. Ms. Rhodovi is a Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) with the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) and the current treasurer with the ABWM Foundation, as a Board of Trustee. She is a founding executive member and treasurer of the Post-Acute Wound and Skin Integrity Council (PAWSIC) and a Board Member on the Alliance of Wound Care Stakeholders. Ms Rhodovi holds a master’s in business administration with a concentration in health management and is a certified six sigma lean black belt in healthcare (LBBH). Julie is the Chief Commercial Officer of Tissue Health Plus, an up and coming specialty Value Based Care initiative.
Johanna Richey, DPM, FACFAS, DABFAS
Assistant ProfessorMidwestern University
Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine
Glendale, AZ
Johanna Richey, DPM, FACFAS, DABFAS grew up in the southwestern United States in both Texas and Arizona. She began her career as an art and education major in college. Life drawing sparked her curiosity into life sciences and ultimately medicine as a career. She graduated from the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine at Midwestern University and completed her surgical residency program with Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. She has been heavily involved in academics both as a residency program attending at the Kaiser SF Bay Area Program and now as Assistant Professor/Attending Faculty at Midwestern University. Dr Richey is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in both Rearfoot Reconstruction and Forefoot Surgery. She is currently the Co-Chair of the AO DPM North America Division and continues to be active in clinical research with multiple peer reviewed publications and continued medical education lecture events. She has served on hospital committees for Peer Review, OR/Surgical efficiency, and Trauma Response team efforts. She has been in clinical practice for over 10 yrs, but her passion is centered in academics. She has worked in several different practice environments, including private and large organizational settings, serving in both inpatient and outpatient care roles, including trauma and elective reconstructive surgery.
Lee C Rogers, DPM, FFPM, RCPS (Glas
Associate Professor/Clinical, Podiatry Division ChiefUT Health San Antonio
San Antonio, TX
Lee C Rogers, DPM, FFPM RCPS(Glasg) is on the Board of Directors of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. He helped the ABPM found the Certificate of Added Qualification in Amputation Prevention and Wound Care in 2017. He is a Fellow Faculty of Podiatric Medicine of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Dr Rogers has authored over 150 peer reviewed manuscripts or book chapters and focuses on creating systems of excellence for diabetic foot care and limb salvage.
Gary Rothenberg, DPM, CDCES, CWS
Clinical Associate ProfessorEndocrine Division
University of Michigan School of Medicine
Ann Arbor, MI
Gary Rothenberg, DPM, CDCES, CWS, is a Board-Certified Podiatrist, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist and Certified Wound Specialist who currently holds a Clinical Associate Professor Faculty Appointment within the Endocrinology Division at the University of Michigan School of Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Previously, he served as Director of Resident Training and Attending Podiatrist at the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Miami, Florida. A graduate of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, he completed 3 years of residency training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio followed by 4 years of private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. His previous private practice experience and academic practices within the VA and university settings have focused on conservative and surgical management of the diabetic foot. Education has always been his passion -- whether working with students, residents, colleagues, or most importantly, patients, Dr Rothenberg believes education is the key to prevention of diabetes related lower extremity complications.
Kimberly Rozman, MSN, RN, CWON
Huntleigh Clinical Program ManagerColorado
Kimberly Rozman, MSN, RN, CWON is experienced at developing clinical training programs, clinically supporting marketing and sales to launch new products as well as initiation and management of clinical trials. Kimberly is a Clinical Program Manager for Huntleigh (a member of the Arjo Company). She creates educational and training materials for vascular assessment and treatment products. She also manages 5 clinical trial sites including contract and budget negotiations, site implementation, and clinical monitoring of the trial.
Carmen Schanderl, MSc, BSc
Product Manager, for Digital Health SolutionsOPED GmbH
Germany
Carmen Schanderl, MSc, BSc, has been working as a Product Manager for Digital Health Solutions at OPED GmbH since January 2023. Through this role and her previous experiences, including speaking at a Digital Health Congress 2024 in Germany, she has deepened her expertise in developing usercentered innovations in healthcare. This combination of skills, together with her academic background, enables her to effectively communicate complex concepts and develop impactful solutions for the LinkedIn Carmen Schanderl healthcare sector.
Thomas Serena, MD, FACS, FACHM, MAPWCA
CEO and Medical Director of the SerenaGroupCambridge, MA
Thomas E Serena, MD, FACS, FACHM, MAPWCA, CEO and Medical Director of The SerenaGroup, a family of the wound, hyperbaric and research companies, is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of The College of William and Mary and Penn State Medical School. He completed his residency in Surgery at The Milton S Hershey Medical Center with an additional year of training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Southern Illinois University. To date, he has opened and operates wound care centers across the United States and globally. Dr Serena has been the lead or Principal investigator in over 100 clinical trials, including gene therapy for critical limb ischemia, antimicrobial dressings, growth factors, topical and parenteral antibiotics, and CTP therapy. He founded the first wound healing cooperative research group that produced more than 12 manuscripts in 2016 alone. In 2011 he developed a diagnostic technique that now bears his name (The Serena Technique). He holds numerous patents on wound care devices and dressings. He is recognized internationally as an expert in the field of wound healing: He has more than 200 published papers and has given more than 1000 invited lectures throughout the world. He has published three medical textbooks and authored numerous book chapters. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Wound Healing Society and served two terms on the board of the Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC) and is now the President. He has also been Vice-President of the American College of Hyperbaric Medicine and President of the American Professional Wound Care Association.
Bhavesh Shah, DPM, MBA
Surgical Consultant - Total PodiatrySan Antonio, TX Co-Director Operation Footprint Co-Director/Moderator - CFAR virtual lecture series
Bhavesh Shah, DPM, MBA, is a board-certified podiatric physician and surgeon in practice since 2002 and Co-Director of Operation Footprint. Dr Shah received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois in Chicago and then attended Dr. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in North Chicago, IL, where he received a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 1998. In 1999, Dr Shah interned at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed a three-year residency at the Foot and Ankle Institute of Monrovia, California, in 2002. Dr Shah is board-certified in Foot Surgery with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and is board-certified by the American Board of Lower Extremity Surgery, the American Professional Wound Care Association, and the American College of Foot and Ankle Pediatrics (ACFAP). As the Co-Director of Operation Footprint, a non-profit global organization that provides free surgical care to indigent children in India, Mexico, El Salvador, and Honduras with genetic or acquired conditions of the foot and ankle, Dr Shah performs life-changing surgeries. Under the auspices of Operation Footprint, he also trains local surgeons in complex deformities to help make a lasting difference in the communities they serve around the globe. To learn more about the charitable work Dr. Shah and Operation Footprint do worldwide, please visit operationfootprint.org. He is also a Co-Director and moderator of the Complex Foot & Ankle Reconstruction (CFAR) virtual lecture series. He has finished his M.B.A. and is pursuing his doctorate in education with an emphasis on adult teaching and learning.
Jason C Snyder, DPM
Advantage Care PhysiciansManhattan Physicians Group
New York, NY
Jason Snyder, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist with additional credentialing in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery. Dr Snyder offers personalized treatments for patients of all ages at Professional Podiatry Services of New York in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. After graduating from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Independence, Ohio, now called Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine, Dr Snyder completed his residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Dr Snyder specializes in the conservative and surgical management of various foot and ankle problems affecting children and adults, including diabetic foot care and reconstructive foot procedures. He’s also a board-certified wound care specialist. In addition to working with patients at his Brooklyn practice, Dr Snyder is affiliated with nearby New York City hospitals, including Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island and Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He’s a member of various professional organizations, including the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, and the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. In his free time, Dr Snyder enjoys cooking, cycling, and watching movies.
Zwelithini Tunyiswa
Chief Executive OfficerOpen Wound Research
Zweli, a proficient healthcare management professional and seasoned entrepreneur with expertise in quantitative marketing and data science, embarked on his journey in wound care back in 2011. At that time, he joined forces with Wound Healing Solutions, a prominent post-acute wound-care consultancy in the nation, where he played a pivotal role in its development and eventually became a partner. The consultancy was successfully acquired in late 2022, and today, Zweli is the CEO of Open Wound Research, a venture he co-founded in the same year.
Phillip Tutnauer, DPM, FACPM, FASPS, FAPWH
PodiatristPinon, AZ
Phillip Tutnauer, DPM practiced podiatry in New Jersey for 30 years. He is a graduate of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine Class of 1988 and completed a Podiatric Surgical Residency at Community Hospital Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr Tutnauer is currently a Podiatrist for IHS at Chinle Comprehensive Healthcare Facility (CCHCF) and Pinon Health Center (PHC) for Indian Health Services. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Podiatric Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons and a Fellow of the Academy of Physicians in Wound Healing. He spent almost 3 years in Guam at Guam Regional Medical City, Guam Memorial Hospital and American Medical Center. His involvement in professional education is extensive and includes local, national, and international lecturing regarding medical/surgical seminars. Dr Tutnauer has assisted in the training of Family Practice residents, Medical Students, and Special Forces Medics in PHC and CCHCF. He is also a retired Firefighter with 34 years of service in New Jersey. Dr Tutnauer is married to his wife Liza and they have a 14-year-old daughter, Ella. He enjoys singing and has performed with many choruses and choirs in New York, New Jersey, and Guam as a Bass Baratone for these groups. He also enjoys riding bicycles, horseback riding, reading and watching movies.
Gisele Valentine, RN, BSN, MBA, CWS, DAPWCA
Clinical DirectorWound Care & Compression
Essity
Philadelpia, PA
Gisele Valentine, BSN, RN, MBA, CWS, DAPWCA, is a seasoned registered nurse with over 34 years of clinical expertise. A graduate of the University of Maryland School of Nursing, she is a certified wound care specialist. Gisele’s diverse experience encompasses trauma nursing and homecare, blending her passion for nursing, wound care, and clinical education. In her current role as Clinical Director of Wound Care and Compression at Essity, Gisele travels globally to educate healthcare professionals on wound care best practices and improved patient outcomes. With more than 20 years in home health care, she is dedicated to empowering communities through education on a variety of health topics. Gisele believes that knowledge is power and is committed to helping individuals make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
Ivan Vela, DPM
Loretta Vileikyte, MD, PhD
Research ProfessorLancaster University Medical School
Lancaster, UK
Loretta Vileikyte, MD, PhD has been active in clinical research of diabetic complications for over 30 years, pioneering research into the interplay between the biomedical and psychological/behavioral aspects of diabetic neuropathy and foot ulceration. Her unique combination of skills and expertise allows her to study the biological and psychosocial/behavioral risk factors of neuropathy/foot ulceration in an integrated fashion, thereby producing clinically meaningful results. In collaboration with her colleagues from the UK and USA (Johns Hopkins, Rutgers and Penn State Universities, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and the University of Miami, where she has been a visiting faculty member since 2002) Dr Vileikyte has led a number of large scale multicenter/multidisciplinary transatlantic research projects that developed patient reported outcome measures: a neuropathy and foot ulcer-specific quality of life instrument (NeuroQoL) used in the EDIC (the DCCT follow-up) and the Patient Interpretation of Neuropathy (PIN) instrument for the assessment of patient cognitive/emotional representations of neuropathy as a risk factor for foot ulceration guiding foot selfcare. Furthermore, she led a collaborative (Manchester, UK / Miami, USA) NIH study (RO1-DK070166 NIH/NIDDK) that investigated the effects of psychological stress on diabetic foot ulcer healing, which generated one of the largest foot ulcer tissue biomarker databases and provided preliminary data for two other successful NIH grant applications: (1) investigating the cortisol synthesis enzyme, CYP11B1, as tissue biomarker for diabetic foot ulcer healing; and (2) a recently awarded NIH grant application examining the impact of removable cast walker design on usability in foot ulcer healing. Currently, she is exploring the psychological factors, influencing patient acceptance of digital technology in foot ulcer prevention: in a SBIR phase 1 study I examined the patient perceptions of usability and ease of use of a foot temperature-monitoring system for amputation prevention for people at high foot ulcer risk, whereas in a Diabetes UK study we are developing a behavioral intervention to enhance the patient acceptance of smart technology in self-monitoring of foot pressures.
Michael P Webb
Michael P Webb comes from Orem, Utah and built a company which he ran for 21 years. After selling that business, Michael has spent the last 14 years consulting on various projects as well as training with various education companies in the world of entrepreneurs. Mchael understands what it takes to run a small business. He recently joined the Legally Mine Team.
Dane K Wukich, MD
Professor and Chair of the Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUT Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, TX
Dane K Wukich, MD, is Professor and Chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UT Southwestern, where he holds the Dr Charles F Gregory Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery. He is also the Medical Director of Orthopaedic Surgery at UT Southwestern University Hospitals. Dr Wukich received his undergraduate education from Carnegie-Mellon University and earned his medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine. He completed his general surgery residency and orthopaedic surgery residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in foot and ankle surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. As an Army Medical Corps officer, Dr Wukich served as chief of orthopaedic surgery in Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. He achieved the rank of Major with the U.S. Army, receiving several Army Commendation Medals and an Army Achievement Medal. Dr Wukich also received the Southwest Asia Services Medal and the National Defense Service Ribbon. Dr Wukich is a nationally renowned foot and ankle specialist, educator, lecturer, and researcher. He has written more than 100 papers and given invited lectures around the globe. He serves as a peer reviewer for 11 journals and is the author or co-author of several book chapters dealing with foot and ankle problems in athletes and patients with diabetes. His research interest includes the complications of circular external fixation in patients with diabetes, foot and ankle problems in post-transplant patients, and treatment of spastic deformities of the foot and ankle in patients with traumatic brain injury and/or stroke. He remains actively involved in the education of orthopaedic surgery not only around the world but also at UT Southwestern with orthopaedic residents. Dr Wukich is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, the American Orthopaedic Association, and the American Diabetes Association.