AO Trauma Course—Basic Principles of Fracture Management for Swiss Surgeons

AO Foundation

Description

The AO Trauma Course—Basic Principles of Fracture Management for Swiss Surgeons is part of AO Trauma's educational program for residents and based on a specific framework of competencies and learning objectives. They feature a balanced mix of educational methods with a strong focus on interactive sessions. Online pre-course self-assessment prepares participants for the course and allows the faculty to tailor the course to the needs of the participants. Before attending the course, participants are expected to complete the online self-assessment questionnaire. The course consists of evidence-based lectures which cover the key information required. In practical exercises, participants will be trained in the application of various techniques. The AO Skills Lab consists of ten stations where participants will learn about the principles of fractures, biomechanics, and test fracture management options. Discussing cases in small groups will help participants to understand decision-making processes and further develop management skills. After the course, an online post-course self-assessment will provide participants with important feedback on how much they have learned. *** Details are subject to change ***

Target participants

This course is targeted at first- to third-year trainees and is also open to newly certified orthopedic and trauma surgeons who are interested. Participants have to work in Swiss hospitals.

Objectives

Upon competition of this course, participants will be able to:

- Discuss the concepts of stability, their influence on bone healing, and how to apply implants to achieve appropriate stability

- Read and analyze x-rays of fractures properly and apply the AO/Orthopedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) Fracture and Dislocation Classification Compendium

- Plan a treatment based on assessment, imaging, classification, and decision-making

- Outline and use the AO Principles in the treatment of diaphyseal and simple articular fractures

- Apply the knowledge of soft-tissue injury in making appropriate decisions regarding treatment options and timing

- Identify and discuss the special problems related to: Fractures in the immature skeleton, Pelvic injuries, Osteoporotic fractures, Postoperative infection, Delayed union and/or nonunion

Chairpersons

Ruth Gremminger

Martin Riegger

Please find more information here.