Michael DeRogatis, MD
Resident Physician
St. Luke's University Hospital
Bethlehem, PA
Member Since: 2021
How has the AAOS helped you during residency?
The AAOS has been an invaluable educational resource, offering access to AAOS Now, JAAOS, ROCK, Res Study, and OVT videos. These resources have been my primary tools for preparing for the OITE, cases, and case presentations. During my PGY-3 year, I attended the AAOS adult reconstructive course at the ILC in Rosemont. I had hands-on opportunities to refine techniques for primary and revision knee and hip procedures. This experience also allowed me to network with fellowship directors and renowned orthopaedic surgeons, opening doors for research collaborations and establishing connections to pursue an academic career. I also served on the editorial board for AAOS Now, where I developed skills in writing editorial pieces and reviewing submissions. This role also provided unique opportunities to interview presenters at the annual meeting. Finally, AAOS advocacy efforts have deepened my understanding of healthcare policy and equipped me to support and advance our remarkable profession.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
While working on a complex case with my mentor, Dr. Paul Issack, he told me something that has stayed with me: “No one will remember how long this case took you, but the patient will remember the outcome for the rest of their life.” This simple yet profound statement echoes in my mind whenever I’m tempted to settle for anything less than my best. It’s easy to understand in theory, but during a long case—when the OR staff is urging you to finish, and you’re debating whether the result is truly satisfactory—it’s tempting to convince yourself that the patient will love it. However, these are often the cases that end up being discussed at morbidity and mortality conferences. I’ve learned that in moments like these, it’s essential to pause, take a deep breath, and dedicate the extra time to ensure the best possible outcome. Those few additional minutes can make all the difference, both for the patient and for your growth as a surgeon.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
When I feel overwhelmed, I often do something completely unproductive, like taking a nap or watching TV. During that time, my anxiety starts to build as I realize I’m running out of time to meet my deadlines. That’s when I shift into “beast mode,” dedicating 100% of my focus to completing my work. I keep a to-do list that I update throughout the day, organizing tasks into categories: those that must be finished by the end of the day, end of the week, and less urgent items. I rarely allow myself to sleep until I’ve completed all my daily tasks, even if it means running on just a few hours of rest.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
One challenge I’ve faced during residency is spending quality time with my family. I have a wonderful wife, a two-year-old daughter, and a dog, and when I get home, everyone is eager for my attention. However, I often find myself mentally preoccupied with tasks I need to complete for work the next day. I’ve fallen into the habit of eating dinner while reading or working, being physically present but not fully engaged. My focus on my career has, at times, caused me to overlook the fact that my family needs me just as much. I’m working on changing that by staying a little later at work to prepare for cases or conferences—since I’m typically more productive in that environment. This allows me to be fully present when I get home: taking the dog for a jog, playing with my daughter, and having meaningful conversations with my wife. Once my daughter is asleep, I can dedicate any remaining time to finishing work tasks.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I’ve always loved the outdoors and living adventurously—the riskier, the more thrilling. That said, after having my daughter, I’ve toned things down quite a bit. Recently, I had the opportunity to combine some adventure with a medical mission trip to Angola. Before the mission trip, I took an extra week to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro via the Machame route. A few years ago, I trekked to Mt. Everest Base Camp and climbed several 14,000-foot peaks. Beyond mountaineering, I enjoy road and mountain biking, playing basketball, and weightlifting.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
Before attending medical school, I worked as an orthopedic physician assistant for several years. During that time, I gained experience across various settings and specialties, but I developed a particular love for arthroplasty. My attending encouraged me to pursue a career as a surgeon, often letting me perform parts of the case to spark my interest. He frequently reminded me that surgery was my true passion, and I realized that operating was the most rewarding aspect of orthopedics for me. I was also enrolled in a doctorate program focused on global healthcare, to get involved in mission work. However, as I explored opportunities to serve abroad, I found I couldn’t participate without a sponsoring physician. While I ultimately didn’t complete the doctorate program, this realization motivated me to become a surgeon, enabling me to pursue my passion for mission work and making a lasting impact both at home and abroad.