The advances in orthopaedics are not limited to the United States. International studies and researchers offer both different perspectives and cutting-edge research. In orthopaedics—as in politics, economics, and many other fields—it pays to know what’s happening internationally as well as locally.

AAOS members can get that international perspective as members of SICOT—the International Society of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. SICOT’s mission is to promote the advancement of science and the art of orthopaedics and traumatology at the international level, particularly through its multi-national publications, triennial world congress, and annual international meeting.

An American surgeon, Robert Lovett of Boston, is credited as one of the first to help form the society. Established in Paris in 1929, SICOT is currently headquartered in Belgium. More than 100 countries are represented. SICOT USA sponsors an open luncheon at the AAOS Annual Meeting for all members.

Meet in Marrakech

The 2007 SICOT international meeting will be held in Marrakech, Morocco, Aug. 29 – Sept. 1. Sites for future meetings include Hong Kong, 2008 (triennial meeting); Thailand, 2009; and Sweden, 2010.

In addition, SICOT USA provides access to several international orthopaedic societies and aid agencies, including the World Health Organization, the World Orthopaedic Concern, and the International Research Society for Orthopaedics and Traumatology. American surgeons can use this opportunity to gain access to new cultures and ideas or to provide care in less developed countries.

Members can participate at educational centers located in several developing countries as well as through the Telediagnostics Project, which provides online consultations.

Join a tradition of rich and exciting exchange of orthopaedic knowledge at an international level. Call (847) 698-1627 or e-mail zuleg@aaos.org for membership information.

Matt Zuleg is SICOT society coordinator in the AAOS department of specialty society services. He can be reached at (847) 698-1627 or zuleg@aaos.org