Cultivating the next generation of leading spine surgeons

Can you tell us more how the GSD Program helps spine surgeons? What can they expect to gain from it?

With its global reach and flexibility, the GSD Program is an invaluable resource for spine surgeons. It consolidates crucial, pertinent, and cutting-edge learning materials sourced from AO Spine, a globally recognized leader in education and research within the field. The meticulously structured program offers spine surgeons the unique opportunity to amass comprehensive knowledge about managing patients with spinal disorders over the course of a year, while requiring only a modest time commitment of a few hours per week.

What is absolutely unique in the world and special about the GSD Program?

What distinguishes the GSD Program is not just its outstanding learning resources but also the continuous access to a cadre of expert faculty members from around the world. GSD Program participants enjoy the unique privilege of posing questions directly to faculty, participating in lively discussions on controversial topics, delving into treatments from global perspectives, and actively engaging in online case discussions. This immersive and interactive learning environment ensures that participants not only acquire knowledge but also gain valuable practical insights and perspectives from seasoned professionals around the world.

A vast international team has been instrumental in crafting this diploma program. The curriculum has benefited from insights provided by a team of spine surgeons, while educational webinars and videos are curated by esteemed faculty members from around the globe. Additionally, the expertise of the AO Spine Knowledge Forums (KFs) and Global Spine Journal has ensured that the program remains up to date. In essence, it's not just the GSD team, but numerous AO Spine opinion leaders, researchers, and educators who have contributed to and continue to refine this initiative.

Focus often is on hands-on, on-site training, but there are also great opportunities for asynchronous and online learning/teaching in surgery. What can you tell us about these opportunities?

Knowledge forms the bedrock of skill development, the cornerstone upon which expertise is built. Understanding, analysis, application, and creativity: all contribute to refining a surgeon's capabilities. Asynchronous and online learning platforms are especially beneficial for surgeons. By providing flexible learning opportunities, these platforms facilitate continuous professional growth, enabling surgeons to stay abreast of the latest advancements, refine their skills, and adapt to evolving practices. This adaptability is key to ensuring that surgeons remain at the forefront of their field, delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

What is your advice for young surgeons?

Firstly, I would stress that learning is a profound transformation in behavior, encompassing the assimilation of knowledge, the refinement of skills, and the cultivation of a positive attitude. I strongly advocate for the acquisition of comprehensive knowledge and the conduct of thorough research before embarking on any surgical procedure. The success of any skill is intricately tied to a solid foundational knowledge base. Secondly, I would encourage them to share their knowledge and skills with colleagues. By fostering a collaborative environment where information is exchanged freely, we not only enhance our individual capabilities but actively contribute to society by collectively elevating the standards of our profession, striving to better patient care and advancing the field. Most importantly, I urge aspiring surgeons to identify and nurture their passion thereby laying the cornerstone for forging a pathway to a prosperous and fulfilling professional life.