The AAOS 2026 Annual Meeting brings big ideas to the ‘Big Easy’

Welcome to New Orleans and the AAOS 2026 Annual Meeting, where you will get a front-row seat to education and innovation shaping the future of orthopaedics. This year's meeting is designed to help you sharpen your skills, explore the latest advances in orthopaedics, and engage with colleagues from around the world, all in an unforgettable setting. Get ready for a week of shared knowledge, new connections, and meaningful collaboration that strengthens the collective impact of our work.

Start smart: Annual Meeting mobile app and registration
If you haven't already, download the Annual Meeting mobile app. It is your trusted resource for staying organized and informed throughout the week. The app can be used to build a personalized agenda, access session information, navigate the Exhibit Hall with interactive maps, purchase specialty society program tickets, and more.

Registration hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday. Attendees can pick up their badges by showing the QR code from their registration.

Educational sessions begin today and run through Friday.

New this year, childcare is available through KiddieCorp, a trusted provider of high-quality children's programs and youth services for conventions, trade shows, and special events. Click here to learn more and register your child

Learn more with greater flexibility
Based on attendee feedback, educational sessions — including instructional course lectures (ICLs), symposia, and paper sessions — are included in your registration. These sessions have been shortened to 60 minutes to reduce scheduling conflicts, increase access, and make it easier to tailor your experience without feeling overwhelmed by competing options.

“We designed these educational offerings to better meet attendees' needs by providing greater flexibility to attend more sessions of interest, at no extra cost,” said Andrew H. Schmidt, MD, FAAOS, chair of the AAOS Education Council. “Attendees will also benefit from a variety of learning formats, such as case-driven sessions, interactive workshops, and expert-led discussions, all aimed at advancing knowledge and improving patient care.”

Featured education opportunities

• ICLs - Hands-on, experience-based learning across all specialties, including adult reconstruction, sports medicine, trauma, spine, pediatrics, and shoulder and elbow.
• Innovation Theater - Live demonstrations of innovative products, services, and solutions.
• Symposia and The Way I See It… - Panels share leading-edge research and candid perspectives on current issues.
• Flash Five - Hot topics delivered in just five minutes.
• Ask an Expert and Showdowns - Interactive sessions where attendees pose clinical challenges and debate techniques.
• OrthoDome® - Large-screen surgical technique demonstrations, with many sessions eligible for CME credit.
  • Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
  • Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Courses and Case Presentation - Practical, interactive learning experiences.
• Case Chats, Posters, ePosters, and Poster Tours - Interactive discussions highlighting the latest research.
• Engagement Theater and Career Development Courses - Programming focused on leadership, mentoring, advocacy, and professional growth.
• Specialty Society Day (Friday) - Focused sessions and the opportunity to connect with experts and colleagues to learn about the latest advances and innovations driving the field of orthopaedics.

Accelerating ideas and innovation
The Annual Meeting offers multiple opportunities to witness innovation in action, support emerging ideas, and engage with the people shaping the future of orthopaedics. Surgeons, researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors alike are invited to participate in this dynamic exchange of ideas.

• The Investment Forum, presented by AAOS and HealthpointCapital, is a first-of-its-kind session at the AAOS Annual Meeting. The Forum features presentations from mid- and late-stage medtech companies, in-depth discussions on investing in private orthopaedic ventures, and candid insights from venture capital and private equity leaders. The program concludes with a high-level executive roundtable featuring CEOs from Stryker, Smith+Nephew, DePuy Synthes, and Zimmer Biomet. The session will take place on Tuesday in the Great Hall B from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

• OrthoPitch returns for its third year and spotlights the future of musculoskeletal care. Four trailblazing companies will pitch their products and solutions to a panel of industry experts and a live audience who will help determine the winner. OrthoPitch will take place in the Great Hall B on Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. Beverages will be served at 4:30 p.m.

Explore the Exhibit Hall
The Exhibit Hall opens tomorrow, featuring more than 600 industry exhibits showcasing the latest technologies, techniques, and tools transforming patient care. New this year is a golf simulator and OrthoQuest returns, an interactive scavenger hunt—both designed to make networking engaging and fun while exploring where orthopaedics is headed.

Global icon, Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnold Schwarzenegger has spent his life inspiring people to move, and now, as Zimmer Biomet's chief movement officer, he is helping motivate and support individuals seeking to improve their physical health for better mobility, joint health, and overall wellness. Schwarzenegger will join AAOS 2026 on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. in the La Nouvelle Ballroom AB as the Presidential Guest Speaker and will share insights on teamwork and performing at your best under pressure.

“Schwarzenegger's message not only resonates with us as physicians and surgeons but also serves as a powerful motivator for all our patients to prioritize their well-being and achieve optimal health,” said Ned Amendola, MD, FAAOS, AAOS president.

Let the good times roll
Wipe that beignet dust off your face because the Annual Meeting is a great opportunity to build and renew connections that fuel collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. Whether you are attending a private alumni event for your medical school or residency program or joining any of the AAOS-hosted activities like yoga, a run through the French Quarter, or Happy Hour in the Hall, you'll find countless ways to grow your professional network, strengthen relationships, and unwind after a busy day.

Here are a few events to add to your calendar:

• Join us this afternoon for a relaxed welcome reception for first-time attendees. Meet staff ambassadors, get tips, explore the mobile app, and network over light refreshments. The event will take place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the OrthoLive, Great Hall, Engagement Theater.
• Rejuvenate with Sunrise Stretch Ya Brass Yoga Class on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at the New Orleans Marriott from 6 to 7:15 a.m. No experience needed, just bring yourself and positive vibes; mats will be provided.
• Kickstart your day with the French Quarter Sunrise Run/Walk on Tuesday and Wednesday from 6 to 7:15 a.m. with fun, fitness, and fresh morning vibes! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just out for a casual stroll, this event is perfect to soak in the sights and sounds of the city waking up. Meet at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside to head out for your walk or run.

Pick up the AAOS Now Daily Editions
Along with the mobile app, copies of the AAOS Now Daily Edition will be published each morning through Thursday. The publication features previews of upcoming events and coverage from the previous day. Copies are available in magazine bins spread throughout the convention center in high-traffic areas.

Jennifer Lefkowitz is a freelance writer for AAOS Now.