Your AAOS

AAOS 2021: It’s On and It’s Going to Be Epic!

San Diego is a GO! For the first time in nearly two years, the musculoskeletal health community will safely reunite in person at the AAOS 2021 Annual Meeting, Aug. 31 – Sept. 3 in San Diego. Register with confidence today and get ready for four days of education, innovation, and collaboration! Connect face-to-face with top-rated faculty and colleagues while uncovering new solutions for your patients. Explore the Exhibit Hall to engage with new state-of-the-art products and the latest evidence-based orthopaedic innovations. The advance registration deadline is approaching. Secure your spot to start planning your customized experience and SAVE when you register by July 23!

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In Other News

Study Evaluates Incidence of Knee Arthroscopy without a Valid Indication

A retrospective study published online in Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy found that 34.9 percent of knee arthroscopy patients aged ≥50 years who were treated for degenerative knee disease did not have a valid surgical indication. In total, 538 patients were assessed. A joint patient–provider decision or patient request was reported as the main reason for the decision to perform arthroscopy in patients without a valid indication. Neither age, diagnosis, nor type of care trajectory were significantly associated with having a valid arthroscopy indication.

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Study: Arthroplasty Surgeons Surveyed Report High Rates of Procedural-related Pain

Incidence of musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is “extremely high” among arthroplasty surgeons, according to a study published online in The Journal of Arthroplasty. Ninety-five percent of surgeons surveyed (n = 586) reported procedural-related MSP, with an average pain score of 3.7 on a 10-point scale. Significant pain was most frequently reported in the lower back, hands, and neck. The investigators noted an association between higher MSP and burnout, callousness toward others, and decreased happiness. MSP was associated with surgeon behavior, including irritability, alcohol intake, and sleep patterns.

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Study: Diabetes Increases Risk of Wound Complications after CTR and TFR

A retrospective study published online in the Journal of Hand Surgery found that diabetes increases risk of postoperative wound complications after carpal tunnel release (CTR) and/or trigger finger release (TFR), particularly in patients with elevated perioperative hemoglobin A1C (HgA1C) levels. Overall, 262 patients with diabetes were compared to 259 nondiabetic patients. Thirty-six wound complications occurred in the diabetic group, compared to nine in the control group. Regression analysis found an increased risk of complications among patients with diabetes with HgA1C values above 6.5 percent within 90 days of surgery.

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Executive Order Addresses Anti-competitive Practices in Health Care

President Joe Biden signed an Executive Order on Friday intended to promote competition in the American economy, including within the health care sector. Under the order, the Department of Health and Human Services is directed to finish implementing the No Surprises Act, which is meant to limit unexpected medical billing, as well as support existing hospital price transparency rules. The Biden administration is also encouraging a review and revision of hospital merger guidelines by the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC has also been called to review potentially unfair occupational licensing restrictions.

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AAOS Now

Study Shows Some Transgender Adults Avoid Medical Care Out of Fear of Mistreatment

Disparities in healthcare outcomes for transgender individuals are due, in part, to impaired access to and acceptance by healthcare settings. In a recent webinar on orthopaedic care for transgender patients, panelists discussed statistics, inequities, and unique considerations in the care of transgender patients. The webinar, jointly hosted by the Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, also advised clinicians about creating a culture of inclusion in their practices.

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AAOS Volunteer Opportunities

Act Now to Nominate Future Leadership

The Nominating Committee is actively soliciting nominees for individuals to serve in the following positions:

  • Second Vice President
  • Board Member-at-Large [Over Age 45] (age 45 or older on March 28, 2022)
  • Board Member-at-Large [Under Age 45] (younger than age 45 on March 28, 2022)
  • Nominee to the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Nominations close on July 30. Members can review the position descriptions—including information about responsibilities, desired experience, and time commitments—as well as submit nomination(s) online.

Learn more and submit your nomination…