The European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology (EFORT) is a highly regarded platform linking all European national orthopaedic associations. EFORT is the European equivalent to AAOS in America, with aims to reflect the will of all participating associations to promote the exchange of scientific knowledge and experience in orthopaedic surgery, with a particular emphasis on education and research. EFORT hosts an annual congress, during which a world-renowned leader in orthopaedic surgery is selected to present the Michael Freeman Honorary Lecture.
In 2021, EFORT immediate past president, Professor Philippe Neyret, and current president, Professor Klaus-Peter Günther, invited Dr. Fu to deliver this honorary lecture. In recognition of Dr. Fu’s immense popularity among orthopaedic surgeons and to our knowledge of knee anatomy, especially the ACL, the lecture was given separately from the congress’s scientific program – one day prior to its commencement during the opening premiere. The lecture, entitled “Is The Latest Always The Greatest?” discusses innovation and development of new technologies as necessary factors for advancements in health care, while dissecting the history of various innovations to reveal that some have not only been ineffective, but at times harmful. The presentation highlighted the importance of evidence and value--based innovation in a world too often influenced by biases stemming from industry, media, and personal gains.
During the live broadcast, hosted by president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, EFORT leadership recognized Dr. Fu’s exceptional contributions to the international orthopaedic community with the EFORT Honorary Award and Membership. Dr. Fu was one of three distinguished surgeons to receive this honor, along with Dr. Gilles Walch (France) and Dr. Reinhard Windhager (Austria). To conclude the opening premiere, Dr. Fu was asked to deliver a message to young doctors worldwide, answering that we must strive to reach our maximum potential without fear, we must always place the patient first, and we must remember that money is important, but not THAT important – it is most important to do what you love!