Laurence J Conway, MD
PGY4 Orthopedic Surgery Resident / Aspiring Arthroplasty Fellow
Hospital Santo Tomás
Panama City
Panama
Member Since: 2025
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
The AAOS has played a key role in my orthopedic training. I often use the Orthopaedic Video Theater (OVT) to review surgical techniques before operations, and I attend AAOS webinars to stay current with evolving practices and clinical discussions in various subspecialties.
As an International Resident Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
The resource I use most is the Resident Orthopaedic Core Knowledge (ROCK) platform. It’s incredibly helpful for reviewing topics in trauma, sports medicine, and arthroplasty. Its structure helps me prepare efficiently for both academic assessments and day-to-day patient care.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I’ve received came from my mentor, Dr. Roque Pinilla:
“Never underestimate the case.” He shared it early in my surgical training, and it has stayed with me ever since. Every operation, no matter how routine it seems, demands full preparation and respect for its potential complexity.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Time-blocking is my go-to productivity tool. I plan out dedicated time slots for studying, training, and family. That structure helps me stay focused and balanced throughout my week.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I’m working on consistently applying a structured, step-by-step approach in every surgery I perform. Standardizing my technique helps ensure I don’t skip steps and builds the discipline necessary for surgical excellence. I’d call it developing surgical consistency and procedural rigor.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I enjoy lifting weights and playing sports, but most of all I love spending time outdoors with my family. Whether it’s going for walks with my wife, my son, and our dog, or simply being active together—it’s my favorite way to recharge.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I grew up in the British Virgin Islands, surrounded by beautiful beaches and a laid-back island lifestyle. It was a unique place to grow up and gave me an early appreciation for culture, nature, and community.