Gunnar B. J. Andersson, M.D., Ph.D.

Spinal Surgery  |  Rush University Medical Center

Dr. Andersson’s clinical and research interests included the lumbar and cervical spine, intervertebral disc biology, as well as the biomechanics and epidemiology of back pain. He has been at the forefront of spine surgery research and education for more than 30 years. In fact, he is credited with designing the renowned seat in Volvo automobiles in the 1970’s.

After completing his fellowship in orthopedics at The London Hospital, Dr. Andersson spent ten years as a member of the faculty at Sahlgren Hospital; which is part of the University of Goteborg, in Sweden. He came to the United States as a visiting professor in 1976 before moving permanently in 1985.

Dr. Andersson is a member of numerous organizations and societies associated with spinal research and care including: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (where he served as the chairman of the research committee), American Orthopedic Association, Orthopedic Research Society, North American Spine Society, and the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine, who awarded him with the ISSLS Stryker Spine Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002. He has also been presented with the Muybridge Medal for career achievement from the International Society of Biomechanics.

As a prolific researcher of vertebral disc degeneration and occupational biomechanics, Dr. Andersson has authored or co-authored more than 320 academic papers and over 160 books and book chapters. Dr. Andersson is also a journal reviewer and editor, holding positions on the editorial boards of more than 15 journals including Clinical Biomechanics, Spinal News International, and Contemporary Spine Surgery, where he is a founding Editor-in-Chief.

Dr. Andersson retired in 2014 and serves as the The Ronald L. DeWald, M.D Professor and Chairman Emeritus of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Rush University School of Medicine.

Profile

• The Ronald L. DeWald, M.D Professor and Chairman Emeritus
  Department of Orthopedic Surgery
  Rush University School of Medicine
• Physician, Private Practice
  Midwest Orthopedics at Rush
  Chicago, Illinois

Education 

• M.D., University of Goteborg, Goteborg, Sweden, 1967
• Ph.D., Medical Science, University of Goteborg, Goteborg, Sweden, 1974

Residency

General Surgery, Sahlgren University Hospital, University of Goteborg, Goteborg, Sweden

Fellowship 

Orthopedics, The London Hospital, London, United Kingdom

Certifications 

• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
• Swedish Orthopaedic Surgery Board

Hospital Affiliations/Admitting Privileges 

Rush University Medical Center