Introducing New Technology/Surgical Techniques in Orthopaedics

Description

In this presentation, Dr. Wade Gofton explores the impact of disruptive innovation and new technologies in the field of orthopedic surgery. He addresses the challenges that come with introducing new surgical techniques, emphasizing the importance of understanding the learning curve associated with these procedures. Dr. Gofton shares insights on how to effectively manage this learning curve through personal learning contracts, mentorship, and continuous education, while also stressing the need to assess the value and safety of new technologies to maintain patient outcomes. He discusses the motivations for surgeons to learn new procedures, including internal and external pressures, and presents data indicating that learning curves result in increased complication rates initially but improve over time with experience. The session also highlights the necessity of mentorship in minimizing stress and complications during the learning process, illustrating this with his personal experiences and outcomes related to various surgical approaches. Overall, he calls for collaborative efforts within the specialty to support learning and ensure patient safety amidst ongoing innovations in orthopedic surgery.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-210242

Specialties