Madhu Rachala, MS (Orth), MBBS, FRCS (Ortho), MRCS
Specialist Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeon
Grange University Hospital
Cwmbran, Wales, United Kingdom
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
AAOS has given me a platform for all orthopaedic educational activities. I am able to enhance my learning by reading journals, and watching surgical technique videos sitting in the comfort of my office or home. I am able to collate all my educational activities with proof of certificates and use them in my annual appraisals with the licensing authorities.
As an International Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
Journals keep me updated with all the peer-reviewed articles from credible and reputed healthcare organisations. Orthopaedic video theatres help me to refresh and learn new surgical techniques so as to safely practice on my patients.
What’s the best advice you were given? Who was it from?
As an operating surgeon, it is always imperative to see your patient on the day of surgery both before and after surgery. This will help to allay anxiety to the patient, build trust, gain confidence and will have a positive impact on the outcome of the surgery. This was the best advice given to me by my consultant during my early years of training.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Having a calming influence in the operating room will get the best out of all team members. Anticipating and communicating well in advance with the team will have the maximum output from the day.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
To discuss all cases pre-operatively with my residents and formulating a plan for each case. Furthermore, to enhance resident learning, I tell them in advance what surgical steps of the procedure I want them to perform actively under my supervision.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Listening to music and nature walks.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I am a great Indian recipe cook! Predominantly for solo-consumption!
