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The e-mémoires of the Académie Nationale de Chirurgie

Echographie

Thomas APARD

Seance of wednesday 27 september 2023 (IRCAD-IWC au service de l'enseignement)

DOI number : 10.26299/9txx-ry75/emem.2023.27.03

Abstract

Ultrasound has been practiced for a long time by various medical and surgical specialties. Its development in orthopedics, particularly in wrist surgery, has been made possible by improvements in probes and software. Sonosurgery is a simple, cost-effective, eco-friendly, non-irradiant, and accessible innovation that allows for the treatment of more patients worldwide. How to organize its teaching in a way that standardizes its practice while respecting the ethics, local customs, and historical practices of each, all while continuing efforts in innovation?

France was the first country to establish a Diploma in Sonosurgery in 2011. The main idea was to give recognition to a growing practice while reassuring colleagues and authorities. An interuniversity diploma was created with four professors across the country. The instructors intentionally came from diverse backgrounds to promote exchange and foster interest and serendipity: ultrasound physicists, radiologists, sports medicine doctors, plastic surgeons, rheumatologists, angiologists, and more.

A thesis is required for a maximum of conference presentations and serious scientific publications. Surgeons from other countries practicing wrist ultrasound have gathered through social networks to exchange and debate. Practical workshops have emerged at conferences (SOFCOT was a pioneer in scheduling it every year since 2014).

IRCAD is the worldwide reference in surgical education thanks to its organization, facilities, and presence on all continents. Sonosurgery benefits from its teaching through practical workshops (pairs of two learners with an expert) and theoretical classes (lectures in the auditorium with video broadcasting and recording), conducted in English for the convenience of colleagues from around the world.