16-17 May Te Pae, Christchurch: Insights By Convenor Alex Lee
As the dust settles from what was a truly memorable few days, I’ve had a moment to reflect on the recent Orthopaedic Trauma Conference that I had the privilege of convening. The feedback from delegates has been positive, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making it such a dynamic and engaging event
Special thanks goes to Jonny Sharr, and the organising committee Tim Chuang and Andy Powell for making this a well-run conference. The format of the conference really seemed to strike the right chord. Focused sessions, robust discussions, and room for spontaneous interactions made for an atmosphere that was both educational and collaborative
We were incredibly fortunate to welcome three international guests - each with a unique lens on orthopaedic trauma care
Reza Firoozabadi (orthopaedic trauma surgeon at Harborview Medical Centre, Seattle) is devoted to teaching orthopaedic residents/fellows and improving the quality of patient care through his research that's focused equally on the clinical and technical aspects of orthopaedic trauma surgery and the injured patient. Topics covered included: Infection Prevention In Orthopedic Trauma And How We Manage Polytraumatized Patients at Harborview - plus Acetabular Trauma (Stable vs Unstable)
Diane Nam (orthopaedic surgeon at Sunnybrook, Toronto) is an Associate Scientist in molecular and cellular biology whose main research interest is the molecular and cellular aspects of fracture healing with respect to the immune system. Diane explores why not all fractures heal properly & what process modifications could improve outcomes. She covered aspects such as Proximal Humerus - Out with tradition, in with innovation & Upper Extremity Surgery
Angus Maclean (orthopaedic Surgeon Glasgow )has a special Interest in trauma, limb reconstruction & knee surgery plus managed a reputable medicolegal practice for nearly 20 years. His topics included Complex Orthoplastics/Ilizarov/Non-union and The UK Trauma Network Model. The implementation of the Major Trauma Network in Scotland was very well received, sparking significant interest and thoughtful engagement from the audience.
Their presentations showcased a wide spectrum of expertise, from cutting-edge surgical techniques to system-level innovations and it was inspiring to see how their perspectives enriched our local conversations
Of course, no conference is complete without a proper social gathering, and our evening at the iconic Hagley Oval didn’t disappoint. Delegates had the chance to unwind, network -and in true Kiwi fashion, enjoy a few impromptu speeches from our overseas guests. Let’s just say the clinical pearls were slightly fewer, but the laughs were plentiful!
Our sincere thanks to Southern Cross Healthcare for sponsoring the Trauma COE dinner
What excites me most is the momentum this event has generated. The New Zealand Orthopaedic Trauma Society is growing stronger, and I am excited to see its influence in shaping the delivery of trauma care across the country. Looking ahead, I’m particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of establishing the New Zealand Trauma Network - watch this space.
Thank you again to all who attended, spoke, supported, and helped pull this together. Here's to continued collaboration, great clinical care. Until next time! - Alex
We greatly appreciate the support of our twelve Trauma COE sponsors. In addition to Southern Cross Healthcare sponsoring the dinner at Hagley Oval, we were joined by our PLATINUM sponsor Johnson & Johnson MedTech | Orthopaedics and Stryker as GOLD
Our SILVER sponsor was ORB Medical with Bonebridge & Enovis as BRONZE supporters
And our EXHIBITORS were Acumed, DBM Medical Group, Endosport, Evolutis, Smith+Nephew plus the Vortek Group
The catching up opportunities either side of the COE were also memorable. On Wednesday night there was an excellent welcoming dinner at Bessies hosted by the Canterbury Orthopaedic Group 
A bunch of trauma surgeons using e-scooters to get back to their hotel...what could possibly go wrong?!
There was time to introduce the international speakers & orthopod David Stephen (also from Sunnybrook, Toronto) to the Tussock Hill Vineyard
and even for a quick "Tim & Dave do Akaroa" tour...we look forward to our next meeting!