After an editorial in Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research stated orthopedic surgeons should be removed from sideline coverage, the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City came out with their statement against the change.
Here are three points:
1. HSS physicians have been present at Super Bowl championships and Olympic victories. The orthopedic surgeons believe it's their responsibility to utilize their skills to care for athletes and lead efforts to improve sports safety.
2. Orthopedic surgeons have served as NFL head team physicians for more than 50 years. The HSS believes if they withdraw alternate medical professionals will still need to be present. However, these professionals will lack the needed expertise, training and experience.
3. Majority of on-field injuries are musculoskeletal. Being able to evaluate an athlete after witnessing the injury allows surgeons to treat the athlete more effectively.