Motivations and Barriers for Women Orthopaedic Surgeons Considering Arthroplasty Fellowship

Abstract

BackgroundArthroplasty is one of the least gender-diverse orthopaedic subspecialties. While previous studies have looked at factors influencing fellowship choices for women, few studies have attempted to understand the decision for or against arthroplasty specifically. Working to better understand fellowship choice is a critical step in the process of increasing women recruitment. MethodsAn anonymous survey was distributed using REDCap to women orthopaedic surgeons and trainees through listservs, social media groups, and residency programs. Surgeons who had decided on a specific subspecialty or already completed fellowship were included. Responses were obtained from 164 surgeons (72 arthroplasty surgeons, 92 other subspecialties). Chi-squared and Fisher’s Exact tests were then performed. ResultsThe most important factor for those who chose arthroplasty was enjoyment of the surgeries. The biggest concerns from those in the arthroplasty group about the field were work–life balance, ability to become pregnant and/or have a healthy pregnancy, and sex bias from referring physicians. Of those who ultimately chose another subspecialty, 30.4% considered arthroplasty “a little” and 8.7% considered it “strongly.” The most important dissuaders for the group that considered arthroplasty were concerns about “boy’s club” culture, concerns about the physicality of the surgeries, and a lack of mentors. ConclusionWhile the decision to choose a career path is multifactorial, our hope is that through the identification of modifiable factors we can increase women representation in arthroplasty. Increasing mentorship, implementing practical solutions to improve work–life balance, supporting healthy pregnancies, and mitigating the physical demands of surgery could help address current disparities.