Hernia repair—one of the most commonly performed general surgery procedures in the US and globally—has developed significantly in recent years, and the March Bulletin cover story discusses the ever-evolving field. Among the trends in hernia repair surgery are increased use of robotics, non-permanent mesh, shared video learning, machine learning applications, and a more holistic approach that encompasses abdominal core health.
Other highlights of the March issue include:
Executive Director’s Update: Bringing Our Quality Programs to Every Community
Dr. Patricia Turner highlights the Power of Quality—a multiyear, national campaign to promote the important role the ACS surgical quality programs can play in improving patient outcomes while enhancing hospital efficiencies. She also details how surgeons can serve as champions of the programs.
The Doctor Is Out: Supporting Inclusion for LGBTQ+ Surgeons
The Association of Out Surgeons and Allies—an organization comprising LGBTQ+ surgeons and allies from all surgical specialties—is committed to providing a “space for LGBTQ+ surgeons and trainees that promotes a dignified and successful surgical career without stigma, judgment, or discrimination.”
Surgeons Can Drive Quality—and Help the Environment
As an energy- and resource-intensive field, surgery plays an outsized role in carbon output, and surgeons are beginning to take action and address the unintended environmental impact of their practice.
Brazen in Brazoria: Dr. Sofie Herzog Was First Woman Surgeon in Texas
Railway surgeons were some of the first physicians to practice new ideas, form specialized societies, and revolutionize medical transport of critically ill patients. Among them was one of the first female surgeons in America—Dr. Sofie Herzog.
Outreach Program Teaches Teens about Trauma, Injury Prevention
Since 2012, the EAST Community Outreach Program has educated several thousand high school students from different regions of the country about distracted driving, firearm safety, interpersonal violence, substance abuse, STOP THE BLEED®, burn safety, and trauma survivorship.
In addition, you’ll find a viewpoint article on surgeons’ duty to address planetary health, a report on using circulating tumor DNA to guide colorectal cancer treatment, news about the Leadership & Advocacy Summit, and much more.
