CME OnDemand: 2022 AOFAS Annual Meeting-Symposium 4: What Does the Science Say (or Fail to Say) About Caring for Female Patients? (Women's Leadership Forum)

Symposium 4: What Does the Science Say (or Fail to Say) About Caring for Female Patients? (Women's Leadership Forum)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The Women's Leadership Forum was introduced as a new tradition at the meeting. The forum aims to recognize the value of gender-focused discussions and highlight achievements of female leaders in the field. The panel discussed the impact of hormones on the musculoskeletal system, specifically focusing on estrogen's effects on bone, muscle, ligaments, and tendons. Estrogen was found to have a direct and indirect effect on bone turnover, with low estrogen levels leading to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures. In skeletal muscle, estrogen was found to play a role in muscle structure, damage, and repair. In ligaments and tendons, the effects of estrogen were found to be less clear, with some studies suggesting a negative effect on stiffness, but a protective effect on healing. The panel also discussed the role of other hormones, such as relaxin, and their effects on female patients. They highlighted the need for further research and understanding of these hormones' effects on female patients' treatment and outcomes. The video also discussed issues related to access to care and outcomes for female patients. It was noted that there may be differences in access to care for women and that women may experience worse pre-operative and post-operative scores in some cases. The panel emphasized the importance of addressing these issues and finding solutions to improve access to care and outcomes for female patients. Overall, the discussion highlighted the need for continued research, education, and collaboration to better understand and address the unique needs and challenges of female patients. The Women's Leadership Forum and the Women's Leadership Forum's commitment to recognizing and supporting female leaders in the field.

Keywords

Women's Leadership Forum

gender-focused discussions

female leaders

hormones

estrogen

bone turnover

muscle structure

ligaments and tendons

access to care