Dr. Kevin Schoenfelder
Dr. Kevin Schoenfelder
Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine Specialist
Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine Specialist
Dr. Kevin Schoenfelder's journey into the world of orthopedic spine surgery began in the vibrant educational landscape of Minnesota. His early life in this culturally rich state fostered a deep curiosity about the natural world, leading him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Macalester College, where he graduated in 1974. He didn't stop there; his passion for understanding the complexities of life led him to obtain a Master's degree in Quantitative Genetics from the University of Minnesota in 1975, setting a robust foundation for his future medical endeavors.
Dr. Schoenfelder's academic prowess continued to shine at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where he received his MD in 1979. His remarkable performance during this period earned him induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Society—an honor reserved for those at the top of their class. Following medical school, he chose to broaden his experience through an internship at the University of California, San Francisco. This decision exposed him to various medical fields before he decided to specialize in orthopedic surgery.
Dr. Schoenfelder completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Washington from 1980 to 1984. During this critical period, he developed a keen interest in spine surgery, drawn to the specialty by its complex challenges and the significant impact it could have on improving patient lives. His dedication and skill during his residency were recognized when he was awarded the Best Resident Paper in 1984, a testament to his innovative approach to medical challenges.
Post-residency, Dr. Schoenfelder quickly transitioned into an academic role, serving as an Instructor of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Washington. His desire to contribute to the global medical community led him to accept a position as a Traveling Faculty member at the University of Hokkaido in Japan in 1984, where he shared and expanded his orthopedic knowledge. In 1985, he specialized through a prestigious fellowship at the University of Hong Kong, focusing on pediatric and adult spine surgery. This move enhanced his surgical repertoire and deepened his expertise.
His research, particularly on the "Sparing" of L5/S1 in Long Fusions of Scoliosis, presented at the Scoliosis Research Society in 1987, revolutionized approaches to scoliosis surgery by introducing less invasive techniques that have since been adopted worldwide. Additionally, his pioneering work with the Kaneda device for the anterior fixation of spinal fractures set new standards for treating complex spinal injuries.
In 1985, Dr. Schoenfelder began practicing at Puget Sound Spine Associates, specializing in diagnosing and treating various spinal disorders. His commitment to patient-centered care and innovative surgical techniques quickly established him as a leader in his field. This reputation for excellence continued at the Franciscan Spine Group, where he worked from 2008 until his retirement in 2018, consistently earning accolades for patient satisfaction and clinical excellence.
Orthopedic surgery, specifically spine surgery, is a complex and critical medical specialty that addresses disorders related to the body's musculoskeletal system. Dr. SchoenfeSchoenfelder'sse included a variety of procedures, from minimally invasive surgeries to major reconstructions, aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function to patients suffering from traumatic and degenerative spinal conditions.
Beyond his surgical achievements, Dr. Schoenfelder was deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. He supported numerous charitable organizations and initiatives, particularly those focused on environmental conservation, healthcare, and education, demonstrating his holistic approach to societal well-being.
Since his retirement in 2018, Dr. Schoenfelder has remained active in his community and continues to pursue his interests in the great outdoors. His retirement activities include gardening, hiking, and volunteering, particularly in environmental conservation projects, reflecting his ongoing commitment to service and active living.
Dr. Kevin Peter Schoenfelder, MD, has left an indelible mark on orthopedic spine surgery through his dedication to patient care, pioneering surgical techniques, and commitment to educating future surgeons. His legacy is characterized by a blend of clinical excellence, innovative research, and a deep-seated commitment to improving the lives of his patients and community.