Whether you're contemplating your first practice or considering a job change, this conversation offers invaluable guidance from those who've successfully navigated multiple transitions.

AOA Emerging Leader Aaron Brandt, MD, had a discussion with Antonia Chen, MD, FAOA, and Clayton Nuelle, MD, about transitioning jobs early in your career, and how to decide what your non-negotiables are for your workplace environment.

What drives these transitions? As our guests reveal, it's often a combination of "push factors" moving you away from your current situation and "pull factors" drawing you toward new opportunities. Despite the statistic that over 50% of surgeons change their first job within three years, these transitions are rarely discussed openly, leaving many physicians feeling isolated when considering a move.

Both physicians share candid insights about creating personal lists of "negotiables" versus "non-negotiables" when evaluating both current and potential positions. Both surgeons advocate for transparency with leadership when considering opportunities and leveraging mentorship networks to find positions aligned with your evolving career goals. They also discuss practical considerations like understanding contract terms around tail insurance, signing bonuses, and trailing collections before making any move.

Douglas W. Lundy, MD, MBA, FACS, FAOA, discussed the future of orthopaedic trauma with William T. Obremskey, MD, FAOA, Director of Orthopaedic Trauma at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Obremskey shares his vision for the future of orthopaedic trauma surgery, focusing on reducing complications through advanced technologies and improved practices.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is Dr. Obremskey's perspective that some of the most impactful advances may not come from fancy technology at all—but from addressing underlying patient factors like smoking cessation and blood sugar control that dramatically affect healing outcomes. The future of trauma care involves both cutting-edge science and fundamental public health initiatives working in tandem.

Peter Murray, MD, FAOA, from the Mayo Clinic shares his groundbreaking insights on hand surgery and leadership. Discover how this unique specialty, sitting at the crossroads of general, plastic, and orthopaedic surgery, is not only evolving but also leading advancements in areas like wound management and peripheral nerve reconstruction. Dr. Murray sheds light on the exciting integration of genetic and regenerative medicine within hand surgery, emphasizing the growing demand for skilled surgeons in this dynamic field.

Explore the cutting-edge developments in orthopaedic fracture treatment, where traditional methods meet innovative techniques. Learn about the transformative role of PCR testing in diagnosing atypical infections and the evolution of treatments for distal radial fractures. From the effectiveness of Volar plates to the promising use of spanning wrist plates for older patients, our discussion highlights a pivotal shift towards less invasive, more adaptable solutions that hold the promise of better patient outcomes.

Finally, we turn our attention to the future of hand therapy and the evolving landscape of hand surgery education. The essential role of certified hand therapists is emphasized, along with emerging therapies like desensitization and mirror therapy. We also contemplate the training of future hand surgeons, where the balance between competency-based education and traditional residency models comes into play. Ending on a note of gratitude, we celebrate the camaraderie among orthopaedic professionals, acknowledging the AOA's support and relishing in 11 years of meaningful exchanges.