Mohamed O Elhassan, MD
Orthopedic Surgery Resident
Medcare Orthopedics and Spine Hospital
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Member Since: 2025
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
AAOS has been more than just a professional body, it’s a global learning hub. Its big library, resident focused programs, and structured learning paths have helped me align my training with international standards. By integrating diverse experiences from across the world into a unified, evidence-based curriculum that sharpened my surgical skills, guided my preparation, and helped shape me into a more confident and capable surgeon.
As an International Resident Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I rely heavily on the Surgical Techniques Guide it’s become a go to for me before entering the OR. The peer reviewed journals keep me updated with the latest evidence-based practices, and the Orthopaedic Video Theater offers a great visual learning experience that adds depth to my preparation and understanding.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I received was from my mentor and he told me “The difference between a good surgeon and a great surgeon is: a good surgeon knows how to do it, but a great surgeon knows why we’re doing it.” That reminds me that technical skill alone is not enough what sets a great surgeon apart is attention to detail, communication with patients, leadership, and humility. That mindset continues to guide me every day.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Getting a head start on the day that’s my go to. I wake up early, get in a solid workout to jumpstart my energy, then tackle patient documentation before the day gets hectic. That early momentum gives me time to study, work on research projects, and still connect with friends and family. It keeps my body sharp, my mind focused, and my life in balance even during the busiest weeks of residency.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Writing everything down. Every small detail I learn from my mentors, every surgical tip I pick up, every patient encounter that teaches me something I try to capture it. Residency goes by fast, and I want to look back one day as an attending and have a roadmap of how I got there. For me, building this habit means collecting not just book knowledge, but the kind of wisdom that only comes from being present and observant every day in the hospital.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I’ve been an athlete since high school basketball and tennis are my go to sports. I enjoy running when I can and make time for the gym even during tough rotations. I love being outdoors, traveling, and exploring new cultures. Staying physically active helps me reset and keeps my energy high, both inside and outside the OR.