What's Happening?
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has announced the appointment of Dr. Wudbhav N. Sankar as the new Chief of its Orthopedic Center, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Sankar, an internationally recognized leader in pediatric orthopedic surgery, will
succeed Dr. John M. 'Jack' Flynn, who is stepping down for medical reasons after a decade of transformative leadership. Dr. Sankar brings extensive expertise in hip disorders, spinal deformity, and pediatric trauma, along with a strong record of innovation in patient-centered care. He currently serves as the Director of the Young Adult Hip Preservation Program and leads the Hip Disorders Program at CHOP. Dr. Sankar has been instrumental in advancing clinical practices and improving outcomes for children with hip and spinal disorders. His appointment follows a national search, and he is expected to continue CHOP's legacy of excellence in pediatric orthopedic care.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Dr. Sankar as Chief of CHOP's Orthopedic Center is significant for several reasons. CHOP is consistently ranked among the top pediatric hospitals in the nation, and its Orthopedic Center is known for outstanding outcomes and family-centered care. Dr. Sankar's leadership is expected to further enhance the center's reputation and capabilities. His expertise in hip disorders and spinal deformity, along with his innovative approaches to patient care, will likely lead to improved recovery times and outcomes for pediatric patients. This transition also underscores CHOP's commitment to maintaining its status as a leader in pediatric healthcare, which has broader implications for the field of pediatric orthopedics and healthcare innovation.
What's Next?
Under Dr. Sankar's leadership, CHOP's Orthopedic Center is expected to continue its focus on accelerating innovation and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Sankar has expressed his commitment to advancing the center's global standing in orthopedic care, which includes pursuing earlier diagnoses, safer interventions, and innovations that benefit patients and families. The center will likely continue to develop and implement new techniques and treatments that could set new standards in pediatric orthopedic care. Additionally, Dr. Sankar's involvement in various professional societies and research groups may lead to increased collaboration and knowledge sharing within the field.
