Theadore Choma, MD, specializes in spine surgery at the Missouri Orthopaedic Institute. After obtaining bachelor's degrees in biology and mechanical engineering, and a master's degree in theoretical mechanics, Dr. Choma worked as a design analyst in the FDA Orthopedics group. After obtaining his medical degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School, he performed his internship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. His postgraduate training was interrupted for two years while he served as Brigade Flight Surgeon for the 1st Armored Division in Germany. He returned to Walter Reed and completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery in 2000. He also completed a spine surgery fellowship at the Twin Cities Spine Center in 2001.

Dr. Choma was the Chief of the Spine Surgery Service at Eisenhower Army Medical Center in Augusta, Ga. and was named Assistant Professor of Surgery for the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in 2002. He also held privileges as a military staff member at the Medical College of Georgia.

In 2006, he left active military service and joined University of Missouri Health Care. He has published articles on the medical effects of surgical lasers and on the biomechanics of spinal implants. His current research interests include the biomechanics of spinal fixation and the patient-based clinical outcomes of spinal fusions, as well as the physiology of the aging spine.

Certifications
Diplomate, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2004
Diplomate, National Board of Medical Examiners, 1993
Advanced Trauma Life Support, 1993-current
Advanced Cardiac Life Support, 1992-1997
Basic Life Support, 1988-current

Honors & Awards
Peer-Selected, Best Doctors in America 2009-2010
USAREUR Flight Surgeon of the Year, 1995
Alpha Omega Alpha honorary medical society, inducted 1991