Surgeons Become Cinematographers

Matthew Avery, MD; Joshua Tennant, MD

The use of high-definition video in surgical education is becoming increasingly popular. Orthopaedic surgeons, trainees, and patients can view thousands of free and paid-access surgical technique videos on the Internet. The AAOS and orthopaedic specialty organizations have recognized the unique educational value associated with this content and have highlighted surgical video theaters during their annual educational meetings.

Second Look – Clinical News and Views

These items originally appeared in AAOS Headline News Now, a thrice-weekly enewsletter that keeps AAOS members up to date on clinical, socioeconomic, and political issues, with links to more detailed information. Subscribe at www.aaos.org/news/news.asp (member login required) Vancomycin powder—According to a study in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma (JOT; October), early application of vancomycin powder may help prevent infection in traumatic wounds.

Study: Few Complications Seen with Peripheral Nerve Block

Terry Stanton

A study on the use of peripheral nerve block (PNB) in foot and ankle surgery revealed an overall low complication rate associated with that anesthetic method. Of postoperative complications that did occur, most were neurological in nature and few were serious or unresolved. The researchers found no clear association in complication rates for popliteal blocks versus ankle blocks.

Study: Optimal Timing of Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Foot and Ankle Surgery Not Clear for SSI Prevention

Terry Stanton

A study aiming to pinpoint the optimal timing of antibiotic administration to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs) following foot and ankle surgery found that timing of intravenous prophylaxis does not appear to significantly affect the risk of SSI. Results demonstrated that host factors and duration of surgery appear to play a much larger role in SSI incidence.

Surgical Courses for Orthopedic Surgery Residents

Patrick J. Smith, MD; Andrew R. Jensen, MD, MBE

The orthopaedic surgery residency program is one of the most rigorous training programs in the medical world. Although the hours spent in the clinic, hospital, and operating room (OR) provide an invaluable foundation for residents, it behooves them to take advantage of extra-institutional educational opportunities as well. Surgical courses for orthopaedic residents supplement learning by providing hands-on laboratory work and educational classroom teaching.