Bonsai

The Living Orthopaedic Tree

The specialty of Orthopaedic Surgery took origin in the correction of childhood deformities. The word “orthopaedia” was coined by Nicholas Andry in 1741, when he published his book entitled Orthopaedia: or, The Art of Correcting and Preventing Deformities in Children. Therein, he states, “As to the title, I have formed it of two Greek words viz Όρθος, straight and Πάίδον, a child. Out of the two words I have compounded that of Orthopaedia to express in one term the design I propose which is to teach the different methods of preventing and correcting the deformities of children.” This analogy of the crooked tree tied to a strong post reflects the basis of Orthopaedic Surgery—to correct deformities. While this living artwork represents the historical symbol of the Tree of Andry, the process of its creation reflects the educational process. The initial training of this tree required four years, which is about the same time it takes to train an Orthopaedic resident. However, as living art, the training process is lifelong. With ever-increasing medical knowledge, every Orthopaedic surgeon must engage in a lifelong pursuit of learning.

PDF Fact Sheet

Awards

2008 Board of Councilors Award
The Living Orthopaedic Tree
eMotion Pictures: An Exhibition of Orthopaedic Art
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

First Place and Second Place
1995 Riverside Flower Show, Bonsai Exhibition

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