AANA25 Shoulder Access Pass-GENERAL SESSION: AANA Legends (Main Stage)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This presentation honors three pioneers—Drs. Steve Snyder, Jim Esch, and Steve Burkhardt—who fundamentally advanced shoulder arthroscopy over the past several decades. They discuss their journeys from early challenges, such as lack of established techniques and instruments, to the development of foundational evaluation methods (e.g., the 15-Point Arthroscopic Exam) and innovative tools for labrum and rotator cuff repair. Snyder shares his transition from open surgery at Mayo Clinic to arthroscopy in Texas, overcoming skepticism to pioneer less invasive approaches grounded in biomechanical principles. Esch recounts founding the San Diego Shoulder Institute course, which grew from informal meetings to a premier educational program integrating cadaver labs and diverse expert perspectives. Burkhardt describes inventing and testing new surgical instruments, collaborating with multiple companies to bring ideas to fruition. They highlight the evolution from limited early tools to advanced anchors and biologics, acknowledging the ongoing quest to improve outcomes and address issues like bone loss and Bankart repair failures. Reflecting on their extensive careers, they stress embracing new technologies thoughtfully, maintaining meticulous surgical approaches, and the importance of personal support systems. Collectively dubbed “the three amigos,” their legacy is one of innovation, education, and mentorship that shaped modern shoulder surgery and continues to inspire younger surgeons worldwide.

Asset Caption

Moderators: Jeffrey S. Abrams, M.D., John M. Tokish, M.D., FAANA
Stephen S. Burkhart, M.D. | James C. Esch, M.D. | Stephen J. Snyder, M.D.

Keywords

shoulder arthroscopy

Steve Snyder

Jim Esch

Steve Burkhardt

15-Point Arthroscopic Exam

San Diego Shoulder Institute

shoulder surgery innovation