ASPN Minimally Invasive Spine (MIS) Certification
Advance your skills in minimally invasive spine with ASPN’s structured 12-month programs. Choose a Fundamentals track or pursue procedure-specific MIS Certification with mentoring, site visits, and a practical exam at the ASPN Annual Meeting 2026.
Program Chair:
David M. Dickerson, MD
Vice Chairs:
Ashley Bailey-Classen, DO
Anthony Giuffrida, MD
Angel Boev, MD
Two 12-Month Pathways
1) Certification of Participation — ASPN Fundamentals of MIS Course — $1,000
- 10-part virtual didactic series
- 100-question written exam
- No hands-on, no mentor site visits, no procedure certification
Who it’s for: Participants seeking a structured foundation in MIS principles without procedure certification.
2) MIS Certification (1, 2, or 3 procedures) — starts at $2,000
- 10-part virtual didactic series
- 100-question written exam
- Hands-on practical exam at the ASPN Annual Meeting 2026
- 2–3 site visits with an assigned mentor for observation
- Regular mentor meetings to plan and debrief cases
Who it’s for: Participants pursuing procedure-specific certification with guided mentoring and assessment.
Quarter Structure (for both pathways)
Each pathway runs 12 months across four quarters:
- Q1: Fundamentals of MIS
- Q2: Fundamentals of pedicular access and anterior column procedures
- Q3: Sacroiliac Complex Interventional Management
- Q4: Spinal stenosis treatment with or without arthrodesis
What to Expect:
- Format: 10 virtual didactics + written exam; practical exam (Certification pathway only) at ASPN 2026
- Mentorship: Assigned mentor; 2–3 observation site visits; regular planning/debrief meetings (Certification pathway)
- Outcome: Certificate of Participation (Fundamentals) or procedure-specific MIS Certification (1–3 procedures)
FAQ:
How long is the program?
Twelve months, divided into four themed quarters.
What’s the difference between Fundamentals and MIS Certification?
Fundamentals includes didactics and a written exam only. MIS Certification adds mentoring, site visits, and a practical exam, leading to procedure-specific certification.
Where is the practical exam held?
At the ASPN Annual Meeting in 2026.
Can I add procedures later?
Applicants may select 1–3 procedures within the Certification pathway. (Details on additions/changes will be provided upon acceptance.)