Introduction to the “Chief Resident Grand Rounds” edition of the Bulletin of the Hospital for Joint Disease s

It is a distinct honor to introduce the 2026 “Chief Resident Grand Rounds” edition of the Bulletin of the Hospital for Joint Diseases. Orthopedic surgery at New York University Langone Orthopedic Hospital has been defined by a longstanding commitment to innovation, academic rigor, and excellence in patient care. From early advancements in subspecialty development to the integration of transformative techniques such as the Ilizarov technique, our institution has remained at the forefront of the field. This tradition continues through the scholarly contributions of our graduating chief residents, whose work in this issue reflects both the depth of their training and their dedication to advancing orthopedic knowledge. As in previous years, this edition features comprehensive review articles authored by the 2026 graduating orthopedic surgery residency class. These peer-reviewed articles are based on capstone grand rounds presentations given by the graduates to the department and represent a culmination of their journey through rigorous orthopedic training. This issue highlights topics that span a wide range of orthopedic knowledge and practice and reflects the breadth of clinical focus and academic curiosity among these graduates. In the realm of total joint arthroplasty, the trainees critically examine the role of timely total hip arthroplasty in young adult patients with hip pathology and dive deep into the complexity of the anterior compartment in total knee arthroplasty. Within orthopedic sports medicine, topics include bony stabilization procedures for patellar instability, complications of corrective osteotomies around the knee, the workup and management of patients requiring revision hip arthroscopy, and evolving strategies for rotator cuff disease, including repair and novel augmentation techniques. Within foot and ankle surgery, the current boom in popularity of minimally invasive surgical techniques is explored, with a focus on their potential to improve outcomes and shorten recovery. Orthopedic spine surgery is represented through a discussion of endoscopic spine surgery and its expanding role in modern practice. Hand surgery contributions include an analysis of the value and growing utilization of wide-awake hand surgery techniques. Beyond traditional subspecialty boundaries, this edition also reflects on the broader context of orthopedic practice. The ergonomics of orthopedics is addressed, shining an important light on orthopedic surgeon health and longevity, while the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in orthopedics highlights the rapidly evolving technological landscape that will define the next generation of surgeons. In addition, a historical perspective on the evolution of orthopedics through armed conflict provides insight into how orthopedics and war are inherently linked, and how innovation has been shaped by necessity across generations. These articles are the product of extensive dedication, rigorous analysis, and close collaboration with faculty mentors. First presented as departmental grand rounds, they are now offered to the wider audience of the Bulletin of the Hospital for Joint Diseases. We commend the 2026 graduating orthopedic surgery residents for their remarkable accomplishments and meaningful contributions to this issue. Their scholarship honors the legacy of the institution while underscoring the bright future of orthopedic surgery. We anticipate with great confidence their ongoing development and leadership in the years ahead.