| Primary Surgeon | Assisting | |
|---|---|---|
| ACL | 52 | 2 |
| Multiligament | 5 | 2 |
| Osteotomy | 9 | 1 |
| Meniscal repair | 64 | 2 |
| Chondral procedures (OCD/OATS etc) | 5 | 1 |
| Others | 148 | 19 |
| Total | 283 | 27 |
What have you learnt the most from this fellowship?
Throughout this fellowship, the most significant lessons I’ve gained have revolved around refining my clinical decision-making skills and deepening my understanding of individualized patient care.
First, I’ve learned that effective decision-making is central to quality patient outcomes. Each case presents unique challenges, and this fellowship has highlighted the importance of carefully balancing clinical examination findings with imaging to guide these decisions. A thorough physical examination often reveals information that imaging alone can’t capture, helping ensure we’re addressing the core of the patient’s problem and tailoring treatments accordingly.
Additionally, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for patient-specific graft selection in ACL reconstruction. Each patient’s risk factors, activity level, and goals can vary significantly, and selecting the appropriate graft type is crucial for achieving optimal results that support the patient’s lifestyle.
Finally, this fellowship has reinforced the importance of joint-preserving options, whenever feasible. Learning to prioritize strategies that preserve the native joint and function was invaluable. These experiences have collectively enriched my approach to treating patients with more precision and an emphasis on long-term outcomes.
Good things about the fellowship
The fellowship has been an exceptional experience for several reasons. One of the highlights has been the exposure to two distinct practices, which provided me with a broader perspective on clinical approaches, surgical techniques, and patient management. Observing and adapting to different styles has been invaluable in shaping my versatility and adaptability as a surgeon.
Another major advantage has been the extensive surgical opportunities, which have allowed me to gain hands-on experience and build confidence in performing a range of procedures. The high surgical volume has been instrumental in refining my technical skills and enhancing my efficiency in the operating room.
Finally, the variety of cases I’ve encountered has been outstanding. From complex reconstructions to challenging cases, the fellowship has exposed me to a comprehensive spectrum of pathologies. This diversity has strengthened my clinical acumen, sharpened my diagnostic abilities, and prepared me well for handling a wide range of scenarios in my future practice.
Things that could be better / improved
One area for potential improvement would be incorporating multidisciplinary team (MDT) session with physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists. This could provide a better understanding of the rehabilitation
Any other comments
Overall, this fellowship has been an outstanding experience that truly elevates a fellow’s surgical skills to the next level. The extensive hands-on experience, combined with exposure to diverse cases and advanced techniques, has been invaluable for building confidence and expertise in the operating room.
Additionally, the opportunity to participate in research has been a significant benefit. This balance of clinical practice and academic involvement makes this fellowship a comprehensive and highly rewarding training experience.
