Raffaele Grasso, MD
International Orthopaedic Surgeon
Pan Am Clinic
Winnipeg, Canada
Member Since: 2022
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has been an indispensable partner in my professional development, guiding my career from its foundational stages in Italy to securing a fellowship abroad. Its resources and community have been instrumental in two key areas: practical education and professional networking.
AAOS provided a vital platform for professional connection. Through participation in annual meetings and other specialized forums, I was able to network with respected orthopaedic surgeons from around the world. These interactions transcended mere introductions; they led to genuine professional relationships. This relationship was pivotal, as it ultimately facilitated my transition to a highly competitive Sports Orthopaedic Fellowship in Canada—a significant achievement for a young surgeon coming directly from Italy.
As an International Orthopaedic Surgeon Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
AAOS video library has been an invaluable educational tool. As an aspiring orthopaedic surgeon, the ability to access high-quality, peer-reviewed surgical technique videos was critical. This material allowed me to study complex procedures, refine my understanding of best practices, and prepare for advanced training opportunities in a way that traditional textbooks could not. The clarity and detail of these videos directly enhanced my clinical knowledge and surgical skills, providing a crucial bridge between theoretical learning and practical application.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I have ever received came from a senior surgeon I had the privilege of meet at Cambridge (UK) for my Trauma Fellowship. During a candid discussion about our profession, he told me: "Don't let your greatest triumphs define you; let your greatest complications teach you."
This advice has been a constant compass throughout my career. It's a reminder that in a field where perfection is the standard, our most profound growth often comes from our most difficult moments. A complication is not a failure but an opportunity to be a better surgeon and a more humble professional.
It taught me the importance of meticulous self-evaluation, patient-centered communication, and a commitment to transparency with both my patients and myself. This counsel has shaped my practice by instilling a deep respect for continuous learning and a relentless focus on patient safety. It reminds me daily that true excellence is built on a foundation of integrity, a willingness to learn from every setback, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
My go-to productivity trick is a form of dynamic optimization. It’s the process of continuously observing, adapting, and implementing the most effective techniques from a variety of sources to create a personalized workflow that maximizes efficiency and improves outcomes.
In practice, this means actively seeking out opportunities to observe how different surgeons approach the same procedure. By watching a variety of experts, I can identify subtle differences in their techniques—from instrument handling to strategic decision-making. I then integrate these insights into my own practice, trying out a new approach in a controlled environment. Through this process of focused experimentation, I can determine which methods are most effective and repeatable for me.
The ultimate goal is to build a customized surgical and clinical routine that is not only efficient but also resilient. This iterative approach allows me to constantly refine my skills and workflow, ensuring I am always operating at my peak performance.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
One habit I'm currently trying to make is writing a **detailed, personal operative note** immediately after every procedure.
While a standard operative report covers the clinical details of a case, this personal note is my opportunity to capture the nuances of the surgery from my perspective. I document not only what was done, but **why** certain decisions were made, what unexpected challenges arose, and what specific technical lessons were learned.
The goal is to create a comprehensive and immediate record of my thought process and performance. This practice serves as a powerful learning tool, allowing me to review my actions and continuously refine my judgment and surgical technique for the benefit of future patients.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
In my spare time, I embrace two passions that reflect my Italian background and professional life: **football (or "calcetto")** and **travel**. Football is a cherished part of my culture and personal life. I play regularly with friends, which offers a great way to unwind, stay active, and enjoy friendly competition. Beyond the physical benefits, it’s a vital mental break from the rigors of my professional life, fostering teamwork and camaraderie in a completely different setting.
As for travel, I've learned to leverage professional opportunities to explore new places. Conferences, visiting professorships, and international collaborations have given me the chance to experience diverse cultures and clinical environments. This blend of work and personal passion allows me to broaden my horizons, both professionally and personally, turning every trip into an enriching journey of discovery.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
As a proud Italian, one of my most cherished hobbies is serving as an informal food critic. Whenever I travel—especially for conferences or fellowships—I make it a personal mission to seek out and review authentic Italian restaurants and pizzerias. Most people think I'm just enjoying a meal, but I'm on a quest to find places that honor tradition. I look for the quality of the ingredients, the time-honored techniques, and the genuine passion behind the food. It's a small way to connect with a piece of my culture wherever I am in the world.