Basic Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma Surgery

Basic Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery for DPMs
April 28-29, 2026
Tampa, FL


Basic Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma Surgery is jointly provided by ACFAS and AO North America. 

The Basic Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma Surgery is a 2-day face-to-face course that consists of evidence-based lectures, AO skills lab, practical exercises, and small group discussions. Lectures will reinforce key information relevant to the topic discussed.  The AO Skills Lab will engage surgeons with hands-on learning of basic principles and practical know-how needed for live surgery.  Interactive case small group case discussions will help participants to understand decision-making, management skills, and potential pitfalls. In the practical exercises, participants will be trained in the application of fixation techniques applicable to the foot and ankle. 

Before attending the course, participants are required to review a set of prerecorded lectures and complete a self-assessment questionnaire and use resources such as the AO/OTA Fracture and Dislocation Classification Compendium at https://classification.aoeducation.org and AO SURGERY REFERENCE.

This course is intended for Doctors of Podiatric Medicine in training.  Some practicing surgeons may also find this course beneficial.


Christy King, DPM, FACFAS, Co-Chair

Alan MacGill, DPM, FACFAS, Co-Chair

Rachel Albright, DPM, MPH, FACFAS

Eric Barp, DPM, FACFAS

Roberto Brandao, DPM, FACFAS

Maryellen Brucato, DPM, FACFAS

Ben Cullen, DPM, FACFAS

Michael Gentile, DPM, FACFAS

Lisbeth Keplinger, DPM, FACFAS

Jessica Knight, DPM, FACFAS

Dustin Kruse, DPM, MA, FACFAS

Spencer Monaco, DPM, FACFAS

Amberly Paradoa, DPM, FACFAS

Diana Rogers, DPM, MS, FACFAS

Jennifer Van, DPM, FACFAS

Upon completion, participants should be able to: 

  • Understand the differences between absolute and relative stability and how the type of stability can influence bone healing
  • Recognize how different implants can impart either absolute or relative stability and the expected healing response
  • Demonstrate appropriate reduction and fixation techniques for fracture patterns of the foot and ankle, including periarticular fractures
  • Utilize reduction and fixation techniques that maintain and respect the soft tissue envelope
  • Describe treatment for metatarsal and ankle fractures based on imaging, classifications, creating an assessment, and applying decision-making

$995        Resident
$1,300    Attending

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons is approved by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education as a provider of continuing education in podiatric medicine. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons has approved each of these activities for a maximum of (hours pending) continuing education contact hours.

Basic Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery for DPMs is jointly provided by ACFAS and AO North America.