Episodes

  • Innovation in Orthopaedic Surgery

    Innovation in Orthopaedic Surgery
    Dec 19 2025
    This episode explores the multifaceted nature of innovation in orthopedic surgery, from creative problem-solving in clinical practice to collaborating with industry on new device development. Dr. Robert Orfaly hosts a conversation with Dr. Amy Ladd, Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Stanford University, a recognized leader in the field whose career spans pioneering research in thumb CMC arthritis, patents, and instrument design. Dr. Amy Ladd shares her perspective on fostering intellectual curiosity early in one's career, the process of turning a simple idea into intellectual property, and the evolving relationship between academic institutions, industry, and orthopedic surgeons. Practical advice is given for trainees, mid-career surgeons, and anyone inspired to pursue innovation, with stories ranging from creating specialized surgical instruments to applying motion analysis technology from upper limb research to optimizing golf swings. The episode also discusses the importance of networking across disciplines and the realities of developing and commercializing new medical devices, emphasizing that creativity and collaboration are central to advancing patient care. Host: Robert Orfaly, MD, MBA, FAAOS, Editor in Chief, AAOS Now Guest: Amy Ladd, MD, FAAOS, Professor & Vice Chair, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Stanford University Production and Editing: MK Quinn Media
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    29 mins
  • Inside AAOS 2026: Can’t Miss Events, Education, and the Crescent City

    Inside AAOS 2026: Can’t Miss Events, Education, and the Crescent City
    Nov 18 2025
    This episode provides a comprehensive preview of the 2026 AAOS Annual Meeting, set to take place in New Orleans. Special guests Dr. Matt Venture, Chair of the Annual Meeting Oversight Committee, and Dr. Michael Letty, Chair of the Board of Counselors, join host Dr. Stuart Fisher to discuss the meticulous planning required for one of the world’s largest medical gatherings. They cover new data-driven changes aimed at maximizing attendee engagement, including more efficient session lengths and the elimination of ICL registration fees, making education more accessible than ever. The episode highlights the importance of member feedback in shaping the meeting’s offerings, plans for innovative features such as an advanced navigation app, and exciting technological upgrades for hands-on learning. With expert insights and local perspective, the hosts share everything attendees can look forward to -from educational sessions and networking opportunities, to unique New Orleans attractions and tips for making the most of time in the Big Easy. Host: Dr. Stuart Fisher Guests: Dr. Matt Venture, Chair, Annual Meeting Oversight Committee; Dr. Michael Letty, Chair, Board of Counselors Production and Editing: Matt DeWolf
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    40 mins
  • Mastering the Art of Patient Communication

    Mastering the Art of Patient Communication
    Oct 21 2025
    This episode explores the essentials of effective doctor-patient communication in today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape, particularly in an era influenced by “Dr. Google” and increased patient access to information. Dr. Katie Schabel, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Oregon Health and Science University, draws from her experience as both a clinician and educator to discuss practical strategies for building trust, demonstrating empathy, and fostering shared decision-making with patients. Topics include the “four E's” of communication - engage, empathize, educate, and enlist - as well as tips for tackling complex conversations around surgical risks, optimization, and misinformation found online. Host: Robert Orfali, MD, Editor in Chief, AAOS NowGuest: Katie Schabel, MD, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University
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    27 mins
  • What’s Up, MOC? Key Changes to the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Program

    What’s Up, MOC? Key Changes to the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Program
    Sep 26 2025
    This episode focuses on the evolving process of Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for orthopedic surgeons, highlighting its transition to a more flexible and continuous learning experience. Dr. Gregory McComis, ABOS Director and chair of the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Committee, joins interviewer Dr. Doug Lundy to break down key elements of the MOC program—including professional standing, lifelong learning, performance in practice, and cognitive expertise. Dr. McComis also outlines recent updates, such as the introduction of the Web-Based Longitudinal Assessment (WLA), the move toward a “continuing certification process,” and changes to certification cycles. Together, they discuss how these advancements are designed to help surgeons maintain high standards of care while addressing common challenges and misperceptions. Host: Dr. Doug Lundy, AAOS Now Editorial Board/Former ABOS DirectorGuest: Dr. Gregory McComis, ABOS Director and Chair of the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Committee
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    27 mins
  • Local Voices, National Impact: How the BOC Works for You

    Local Voices, National Impact: How the BOC Works for You
    Aug 18 2025
    This episode offers an in-depth look at the vital role of the AAOS Board of Counselors (BOC) in orthopaedic advocacy and practice. New BOC Chair Dr. Michael Leddy III joins interviewer Dr. Stuart Fischer to share his personal journey in orthopaedics, including how involvement in state societies helped prepare him for national leadership. Together, they discuss pressing issues facing the profession such as scope of practice challenges, prior authorization hurdles, and ongoing Medicare reimbursement concerns. Dr. Leddy outlines the Board’s collaborative grant programs that support state societies and highlights recent advocacy successes—like increased funding and strategic sharing of resources between states. The episode also explores efforts to strengthen communication and partnerships across the orthopaedic community, promote engagement at the National Orthopaedic Leadership Conference, and encourage early career involvement in advocacy. Dr. Leddy invites listeners to the upcoming AAOS Annual Meeting in New Orleans and emphasizes the importance of bi-directional communication and grassroots participation within the Academy. Host: Dr. Stuart Fischer, AAOS Now Editorial BoardGuest: Dr. Michael Leddy III, Chair, AAOS Board of Counselors
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    23 mins
  • #55 A Legacy of Advocacy: How OrthoPAC Is Shaping Healthcare Policy

    #55 A Legacy of Advocacy: How OrthoPAC Is Shaping Healthcare Policy
    Jul 22 2025
    This episode highlights the influential role of the Orthopaedic Political Action Committee (OrthoPAC) in amplifying the voices of orthopaedic surgeons on Capitol Hill and advancing patient care. Dr. Wayne Johnson, Chair of OrthoPAC, shares insights on the committee’s mission, its major legislative victories—including payment reform and surprise billing—and its ongoing efforts to address key challenges like Medicare reimbursement cuts, prior authorization burdens, and advocacy for physician-owned hospitals. The discussion also explores the importance of bipartisan collaboration, mentorship, and how orthopaedic surgeons at all career stages can get involved in advocacy efforts. Host: Dr. Richard Schaefer, Editorial Board Member, AAOS NowGuest: Dr. Wayne Johnson, Chair, AAOS Orthopaedic Political Action Committee
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    28 mins
  • #54 The Real-World Cost of Payment Reform for Orthopaedic Surgeons

    #54 The Real-World Cost of Payment Reform for Orthopaedic Surgeons
    Jun 10 2025
    This episode explores the ongoing challenges and potential solutions surrounding Medicare physician payment reform and the sustainability of orthopedic practices. Dr. Robert Orfaly, editor in chief of AAOS Now, is joined by Dr. Adam Bruggeman, Chair of the AAOS Advocacy Council, to discuss the history of payment models from the sustainable growth rate (SGR) to MACRA, the impact of budget neutrality, and the consequences of stagnant reimbursement rates. Dr. Bruggeman shares insights into how these financial pressures are threatening the viability of independent and group practices, driving consolidation, and affecting patient access to care. The conversation highlights current advocacy efforts to secure inflationary updates for physician payments and emphasizes the importance of physician engagement and storytelling in influencing health policy. Host: Robert Orfaly, MD, Editor in Chief, AAOS NowGuest: Adam Bruggeman, MD, Chair, AAOS Advocacy Council
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    24 mins
  • #53 Special Episode: AAOS’s New Strategic Plan

    #53 Special Episode: AAOS’s New Strategic Plan
    Sep 9 2024
    The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recently went through a comprehensive multi-year process to re-imagine its core focus and aspirational state to be the trusted leaders in advancing musculoskeletal health. Members of the AAOS Presidential Line provide behind-the-scenes perspective that explores the need for change, and how these changes provide a foundation for greater collaboration, innovation, learning opportunities and benefits for current and future members, patients and the larger musculoskeletal community. More on AAOS’ proposed governance changes: https://www.aaos.org/about/meet-aaos/proposed-governance-changes/ Moving Forward: AAOS Board of Directors Approves New Strategic Plan, (AAOS Now, April 2024): https://www.aaos.org/aaosnow/2024/march-april/commentary/commentary01/ Look Towards the Future, (AAOS Now, August 2024), https://www.aaos.org/aaosnow/2024/aug/youraaos/youraaos01 Host: Valerae O. Lewis, MD, FAAOS, AAOS Membership Council Chair Guests: Paul Tornetta III, MD, PhD, FAAOS, AAOS President Annunziato (Ned) Amendola, MD, FAAOS, AAOS First Vice President Joel Mayerson, MD, FAAOS, FAOA, AAOS Board of Councilors Chair
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    38 mins