Martha's journey: Collaboration drives complex spine reconstruction

[Allina Health Newsroom, February 24, 2026] Collaboration is key at Allina Health Brain and Spine Institute, collaboration among the care team and between the doctor and patient. For Martha Christian, it played a crucial role in her agreeing to what she calls, “the MOAB – the mother of all back surgeries.”

After months of planning, Timothy Kovanda, MD, and Joseph Kapurch, MD, neurosurgeons with Allina Health Brain and Spine Institute, spent 14 hours over two days reconstructing Martha’s spine. Her story is one of courage, trust and expert care. Watch Martha’s story below.

Posted on February 24, 2026 in allina health brain and spine institute