AOSpine Course-Principles and Treatment in Spinal Disorders for Residents (Jan, 2017)

AOSpine North America Principles courses are intended to address the additional training needs and practice gaps of the orthopaedic and neurological spine residents. This course is designed to offer residents the opportunity to learn the AO principles of anatomic reduction of fracture fragments; stable fixation to ensure proper healing while allowing the surrounding tissue to strengthen; atraumatic surgical technique to preserve the blood supply to the bone fragments and soft tissue; and early, pain-free mobilization so the patient can be returned to function as soon as possible as they apply to spinal surgery.

Learner Objectives :
At the conclusion of this Course, the participant should be able to:
• Perform a complete neurological assessment and identify potentially unstable spinal injuries
• Order appropriate imaging
• Classify the injury according to fracture morphology, instability, and neurological status
• Describe the best operative and nonoperative treatment option for each patient based on the available evidence
• Reduce/decompress/stabilize appropriately
• Demonstrate the basic knowledge of the principles of bone and soft tissue healing
• Identify the anatomic and biomechanical issues in spinal fixation
• Collaborate in the rehabilitation plan for the patient
• Identify and manage postinjury and postoperative complications
• Apply psychomotor skills developed during practical exercises into surgical practice.