Evidenced by the more than 340 United States patents he holds as an individual, and over 953 issued or pending applications he has throughout the world, Dr. Gary K. Michelson’s dedication in innovation make him the most prolific inventor in the history of medicine and the sole inventor of the most widely used innovations in spinal surgery.

Michelson is most known for the $1.35 billion settlement he recieved from medical device maker, Medtronic, in 2005. He spent years in litigation over his patents before the settlement was reached. He has seen the good, the bad and the ugly in the US patent system up close and personal and he wants to see the US patent system improve. For the benefit of all independent inventors, the American economy and to promote real job growth.

Dr. Michelson is a fierce believer in competition toward innovation. He’s not only considered one of the 500 most influential people in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal, but a longtime promoter and supporter of entrepreneurial competitions at various business schools throughout the country.