David B. Thordarson, MD Takes the Helm at AOFAS
David B. Thordarson, MD, a skilled foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon, has been appointed President of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS). This prestigious organization is recognized as a leading authority in both surgical and non-surgical treatments for disorders affecting the foot, ankle, and lower extremities.
As he steps into this pivotal role, Dr. Thordarson is eager to strengthen the organization’s influence and advance its mission. "I truly believe that AOFAS stands as the foremost educational, research, and service organization for foot and ankle care globally," he stated. He is dedicated to delivering top-notch educational resources and nurturing innovative research and medical initiatives through the Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Foundation.
Dr. Thordarson's extensive medical training has established him as a leading figure in orthopaedic surgery. He completed his medical education, residency, and fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles, which has laid a strong foundation to propel AOFAS into the future.
Currently, Dr. Thordarson holds several key positions, including Chief of the Division of Foot and Ankle Surgery within the Department of Orthopedics, and he is also a Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Looking back on his career, Dr. Thordarson credits much of his success to the invaluable guidance of his mentors. He’s particularly grateful to his fellowship mentors, Andrea Cracchiolo, MD, and Edward Leventen, MD, who ignited his passion for this specialized field. In turn, he invests time in mentoring residents and fellows, nurturing the next generation of talented surgeons.
With more than twenty years of active involvement with AOFAS, Dr. Thordarson has served in a variety of roles, including President-Elect and Vice President, prior to his election as President. This deep commitment has granted him the chance to shape many aspects of the organization, promoting education and facilitating professional growth within the community.
He also had a notable term as the Editor-in-Chief for Foot & Ankle International (FAI) and Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics (FAO)—the society's open-access journal. Under his leadership, the impact factor of FAI significantly increased, reflecting his dedication to advancing scholarly work that greatly benefits AOFAS.
Alongside his editorial responsibilities, Dr. Thordarson has played a crucial role in organizing professional events and educational courses. He has been a faculty member for over forty orthopaedic courses, contributing to the ongoing education of his peers in the profession.
“The AOFAS has been my favorite professional organization since I joined in 1992,” Dr. Thordarson remarked. He expresses great honor in taking on this leadership role in such a respected organization and is eager to further AOFAS's ongoing success.
About Foot and Ankle Orthopaedic Surgeons
Foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons are specialized medical experts focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders affecting the foot and ankle. Their training is thorough and includes four years of medical school, five years of residency, and an additional fellowship year aimed at gaining specific surgical skills.
These surgeons provide comprehensive care to patients of all ages, performing reconstructive surgeries for deformities resulting from arthritis, addressing sports injuries, and managing trauma to the foot and ankle.
Understanding the AOFAS Mission
The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) brings together a dynamic community of foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons who are devoted to enhancing patient care. The organization is unwavering in its commitment to education, research, and advocacy, ensuring that its members stay updated with the latest knowledge and practices.
AOFAS takes pride in offering outstanding resources and events for continuous education, promoting cutting-edge research, and improving awareness of various foot and ankle conditions among patients. By fostering collaboration and excellence, AOFAS strives to enhance professional performance and, ultimately, improve patient outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dr. David B. Thordarson?
Dr. David B. Thordarson is a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon and the newly appointed president of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS).
What is the AOFAS?
The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society is a leading organization dedicated to the surgical and non-surgical treatment of foot and ankle conditions.
What are Dr. Thordarson's contributions to AOFAS?
Dr. Thordarson has served in various roles including President-Elect, Vice President, and Editor-in-Chief of relevant journals, influencing many aspects of AOFAS's growth and development.
What educational background does Dr. Thordarson have?
He completed his medical education, residency, and fellowship at the University of California in Los Angeles.
What is the importance of foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons?
They specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, providing essential care and surgical interventions for various foot and ankle issues.
