Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to have a ton of strength or much experience using power tools to become an orthopaedic surgeon. These are among the myths and stereotypes that deter women from entering the field.
The Perry Initiative is working to combat these obstacles by connecting with women leaders from medical schools nationwide. Duke hosted the Perry Initiative's Medical Student Outreach Program on April 1. More than 50 students, faculty, and resident volunteers gathered to highlight the benefits and pathways to a career in orthopaedic surgery.
Students from Duke, Campbell University, Wake Forest University, East Carolina University, Eastern Virginia University, University of North Carolina, Howard University, and the Medical College of Georgia gathered to hear from inspiring women leaders and learn more about what it's like to work in the field.
Melissa Erickson, MD, a Duke spine surgeon and associate professor of orthopaedic surgery and neurosurgery, partnered with the Wake Forest Department of Orthopaedics to lead the Perry Initiative's outreach at Duke. She shared her path and emphasized the importance of good mentors guiding students' journeys.
Attendees also heard from Duke School of Medicine Dean Mary E. Klotman, MD; Orthopaedic Surgery Chair Benjamin Alman, MD, and Joe Minchew, MD, and others about the pathways to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon, career-life balance, fellowships, and mentorship. The students participated in a hands-on Sawbones lab, practicing intramedullary nailing and external fixation techniques. The event closed with a candid panel discussion featuring current female orthopaedics residents, fellows, and attendings, including Dr. Cynthia Emory, chair of Wake Forest Orthopaedic Surgery.
Duke fourth-year medical student Isabel Prado attended the event for the second year. She is one of eight incoming Duke orthopaedic residents who begins our program in the fall. Kiera Lunn, a second-year medical student at Duke, said she's leaning toward orthopaedics but weighing her options. Lunn said she enjoyed meeting and interacting with orthopaedic residents who volunteer and help with the simulations.
According to the 2018 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons census data, 7.6 percent of practicing orthopedists identify as female. There are encouraging signs the pipeline is improving. The Association of American Medical Colleges reported in 2022 that 16.6 percent of all active orthopedic residents identify as female.
"It continues to be a key pipeline initiative in orthopaedic surgery," stressed Erickson.
The Perry Initiative was founded in 2009 by Jenni Buckley, a mechanical engineer, and Lisa Lattanza, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon. The organization has reached over 13,000 high school, college, and medical students through over 450 events.