AAHKS Stands Behind Surgeon’s Role

In a recent interview, Elon Musk predicted that robots would be better surgeons than the best human surgeon in three years. This prompted AAHKS President R. Michael Meneghini, MD to submit an editorial to the Journal of Arthroplasty (JOA) expressing AAHKS’ position: “We are very much ‘pro innovation’ and support utilizing robotics and AI in the field of hip and knee arthroplasty. However, human compassion, empathy, knowledge and interaction remain the role of the orthopaedic surgeon. Technology should augment their compassion and surgical skill – not replace it.” Look for Dr. Meneghini’s editorial coming soon in the online JOA, accessible to AAHKS members on the JOA website or by logging into the AAHKS website (click the “Journal of Arthroplasty” tab).