URGENT UPDATE: Dr. David Altchek, the esteemed orthopedic surgeon who revolutionized Tommy John surgeries, has died at the age of 68. His passing was confirmed by the Hospital for Special Surgery on Thursday, leaving a profound impact on both the sports community and countless athletes.
Dr. Altchek, who performed over 2,400 Tommy John surgeries during his illustrious career, served as the New York Mets medical director from 2005 until this year, and as the head team physician from 1991 to 2001. His innovative techniques and compassionate care earned him a reputation as a leader in sports medicine.
His death follows a diagnosis of a brain tumor he shared with colleagues last year. Dr. Altchek’s contributions extended beyond the Mets; he also served as the physician for the U.S. Davis Cup team and was the North American medical director for the ATP Tour.
“While Dr. Altchek’s intelligence and innovations certainly benefited his patients — and sports medicine in general — his biggest impact was his warm, friendly caring personality,” stated Glenn S. Fleisig, biomechanics research director of the American Sports Medicine Institute. His legacy resonates deeply among colleagues, friends, and the athletes he treated.
Born to orthopedic surgeon Martin Altchek, David graduated from Columbia University and earned his medical degree from Cornell University Medical College in 1982. He completed his residency at HSS, where he trained under notable figures, including Dr. Russell Warren, a long-standing team physician for the New York Giants.
Dr. Altchek’s significant contributions to the field included the development of the docking procedure, which he tested on approximately 100 elbows. His approach dramatically simplified the surgery, which was crucial for athletes facing ligament injuries. “We really did not change it at all for 20-something years,” he reflected in a recent interview.
Known for his reassuring demeanor, Dr. Altchek comforted players faced with the daunting prospect of surgery, often asserting that 95% of them could return to their previous performance levels. His ability to inspire confidence in his patients was unparalleled.
In 2003, he received Columbia’s prestigious John Jay Award for Distinguished Professional Achievement, underscoring his commitment to excellence in his field. Dr. Altchek is survived by his wife, Anne Salmson, and their four children, including Charles Altchek, who serves as president of Major League Soccer’s MLS Next Pro minor league.
As the sports community mourns his loss, Dr. Altchek’s transformative impact on sports medicine and his warm, caring spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. The urgency of this news underscores the profound loss felt across the baseball world and beyond, highlighting the importance of his contributions to athletes’ health and recovery.
Stay tuned for further updates as tributes pour in for a surgeon who changed the landscape of sports medicine forever.