AAOS – A New Research Agenda (with some discomfort)
We have recently returned from AAOS (American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons) in Las Vegas. There we connected with others about leading edge technologies and techniques; discussed product development; attended demonstrations and connected with others from around the world. In light of being back, we thought we’d highlight a couple things that may be of interest to you.
First, Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) president David B. Burr, PhD, delivered a presidential address that set a particular tone: “make no mistake – we must change.” What must change? Orthopedic research. He states, “The ORS must change – for scientific reasons, for economic reasons, for logistic reasons.” He challenged his colleagues not to be “lulled into believing that the status quo is right because it is the status quo.” Using the example of the AAOS focus on advocacy and education, Dr. Burr again noted that “research is at the forefront of the ORS mission, followed closely by communication.” Thus, the important discussion should be about how the ORS and the AAOS as well as others will interact scientifically going forward to the betterment of orthopedic research and orthopedic practice. Because, after all, creating silos of specialized knowledge will not solve the problems that we have to solve.
Second, particular exhibits/demonstrations of interest to us included:
1. VisibleBody.com – innovative online animation program. We met with them at the show and got a demo.
2. Zero-G trainer - exciting PT system. You run on air!
3. Surgeon debates/presentations on fusion vs. Arthroplasty – entertaining as well as educational.
4. Flamingo Hotel – was like being transported into 1984.
Overall, the conference underscored relationships – relationships that can change the world. This line of thinking is reminiscent of our post about setting a research and design agenda about healthcare that fosters new models. And these models are created through – and only with – others. As Dr. Burr closed he stated, “in the current research environment, glacial mode is simply not an option. We need to think critically about our future, even it means some discomfort.”
Working in a truly collaborative partnership – one based on mutual respect and support, seems like an agenda worth pursing, doesn’t it??
Lastly, the conference was productive and served as an important reminder: The ongoing willingness to do good things to enhance better patient care happens when we talk, interact, and practice with each other! So let it unfold….
Thanks to Robin Hutton and onlinewoman for their images!
Carey Candrian
Tags: AAOS, aaos meeting, arthroplasty, collaborative partnerships, Dr. David B. Burr, health 2.0, leading edge technologies, medical care, medical practice, ORS, orthopedic education, orthopedic research, orthopedics, patient care, research agenda, scientific research, specialized knowledge, strategic research agenda, total arthroplasty, visiblebody, zero-G trainer
