Ramin Espandar, MD
Pediatric Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Surgeon
Thomas Jefferson University – 3B Orthopaedics
Philadelphia, PA
Member Since: 2018
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
AAOS has provided education, networking, and resources that supported my transition from international academic practice to fellowship training in the U.S. Its courses, guidelines, and community connections have kept me current and engaged with advances in pediatric and sports orthopaedics.
As an Affiliate Orthopaedic Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I use AAOS journals, clinical practice guidelines, and the Orthopaedic Video Theater most frequently. These resources allow me to refine surgical techniques, stay aligned with best practices, and continue growing as both a clinician and educator.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
“Always put the patient’s needs first, and the rest will follow.” This advice from a mentor early in my career has guided my approach to patient care, teaching, and research.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
I believe consistency is the foundation of productivity, showing up every day and making steady progress is more powerful than waiting for the perfect moment. I also apply a simple approach: stop, think, act, and then learn from any difficulties. Each challenge becomes an experience, and over time those experiences shape true expertise.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I try to spend as much time as possible with my wife and daughters, especially when I’m in San Antonio. Whether it’s cooking or baking together, playing volleyball, or even going shopping, these moments help us stay connected despite the distance.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I enjoy traveling with my family, photography, hiking, and reading in areas such as U.S. history, social sciences, and Persian literature. When I visit my wife and daughters, I especially enjoy our traditions of cooking, playing volleyball, and going shopping together, all simple but meaningful ways we share time. Cooking reminds me of surgery: you must be prepared, precise, and well-scheduled to create something successful.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
My wife and daughters often turn ordinary activities into fun competitions, whether cooking challenges, volleyball games, or even shopping adventures. They have a way of keeping me on my toes, and they’re becoming tough competitors both in the kitchen and on the court!