Becker's Hospital Review, a publication for hospital executives, has named the orthopedic and spine program at The Johns Hopkins Hospital as one of the 40 best in the United States.

“The department, founded in 1900, has a long history of innovation, which it continues today through research and clinical trials,” the magazine notes. “Highly regarded as one of the best hospitals in the nation, the department's residency program is exclusive, with only five graduates per year. “

The Johns Hopkins Hospital has topped U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals list for 20 years in a row and its orthopedic program ranked fifth in 2010.

Becker’s elected to rate orthopedic and spine programs because they are “a key service line for hospitals.” And the company says those on its top 40 list were chosen because they “have been awarded numerous accolades for their programs by other publications and rating agencies, provide superior outcomes and have strong program reputations.”

The publication earlier this year named Hopkins one of the 30 best hospitals in the nation and last month called Hopkins one of the 100 top places to work in U.S. health care.