Women in Orthopaedics—Way Behind the Number Curve

Abstract

Women now constitute 49% of medical school matriculants1. The percentage of women in orthopaedic surgery training programs has not kept pace with the increase in the number of women medical students. Although the number of female orthopaedic residents has increased and continues to do so slightly over time, the results of the 2008 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) census reveal that only approximately 4% of orthopaedic surgeons responding to the survey are female2. As of the year 2009, all other surgical subspecialties (with the exception of cardiothoracic surgery) had a higher percentage of women than orthopaedic surgery had. The factors that dissuade women from pursuing careers in orthopaedic surgery are not entirely clear. Several investigators have attempted to assess the factors that come into play when women choose a medical specialty career. In the past, lifestyle issues have been cited as a deterrent for women entering surgery and its subspecialties; however, while lifestyle choice may play some role, it is no longer a significant factor in the disparity. It has been noted by several authors that, with the current generation of medical students and residents, lifestyle alone is not more of a deterrent for women than it is for men when choosing a specialty. In fact, Saalwachter et al., in their study examining the needs of both male and female surgical trainees, found that male and female surgical residents, fellows, and trained surgeons identified almost identical training needs and priorities3. Our report summarizes recent research on women in orthopaedic surgery. Women surgeons, in fact, appear to be very satisfied with their career choice4; however; it is apparent that this information needs to be better conveyed to the medical students. Greater exposure to female surgical faculty would help. Neumayer et al. found …