Summary

This study aimed to analyze nearly two decades female participation compared to male participation at the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery, and Orthopaedic Surgery (ISAKOS) Biennial Meeting.

Abstract

Introduction

Gender disparity in Orthopedic Surgery remains among the most significant in all fields of medicine, with women accounting for only 6.5% of practicing Orthopedic Surgeons. This disparity has been observed in female authorship in journals. However, female representation and participation at academic conferences is currently unknown. This study aimed to analyze nearly two decades female participation compared to male participation at the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery, and Orthopaedic Surgery (ISAKOS) Biennial Meeting. We hypothesized a statistically significant increase in the proportion of female participants during this period.

Methods

Data from ISAKOS biennial meetings from 2007 to 2023 were collected from publicly available meeting programs. Participants were categorized into three groups: scientific paper presentations, instructional course lectures (ICLs), and surgical demonstrations. Gender and affiliated country were recorded. Gender determination was made through evaluator recognition, with uncommon, unrecognized, or ambiguous names evaluated using a systematic search strategy of the individual’s online presence. Descriptive statistics were reported as overall totals and percentages. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square and Fisher exact tests (p<0.05). Trends over time were analyzed using Linear Regression, with statistical significance evaluated against a p-value of 0.05.

Results

The percentage of female participants increased from 6.4% in 2007 to 12.4% in 2023 (p-value of 0.038). Females comprised 4.6% of ICL lecturers, 8.9% of scientific paper presentations, and 5% of surgical demonstrators. Females were significantly less likely to be chairs, moderators, participants, and faculty surgeons (p<0.001). A total of 55 unique countries were identified as presenter affiliations, with the United States, China, Italy, and the Netherlands having the highest female participation rates. Yes, add the % of females

Conclusion

Female representation at ISAKOS Bienniel Congress increased from 6.4% to 12.4% over the eligibility period of 16 years. Although this number is consistent with the proportion of female Orthopedic Surgeons in practice, the number represents underrepresented individuals. The ISAKOS Bienniel Congress, over the 16-year eligibility period, has observed a nearly doubled female participation.