The envelopes are open, and your orthopedic residency journey is officially set. After years of dedication, late nights, and rigorous study, Match Day 2026 marks a defining moment—one that launches your career in orthopedic surgery.
This milestone is more than just a result. It’s the beginning of your transformation from medical student to orthopedic resident, and ultimately, to a surgeon who will restore mobility, relieve pain, and change lives.
Today, we celebrate you—and welcome you to the AO North America family.
The Future of Orthopedic Surgery Starts Today
To the newest members of the orthopedic surgery community: congratulations.
You’ve put in the work. You’ve passed the exams. You’ve earned your place.
Now, you step into the operating room not just to learn—but to lead, innovate, and heal.
Your orthopedic residency will challenge you in ways you’ve never experienced before. The learning curve is steep, the expectations are high, and the days are long. But the impact you’ll have on your patients—and the skills you’ll develop—are unmatched.
What Happens After Match Day
Match Day is just the beginning. As a new orthopedic resident, your next steps are critical:
- Build strong relationships with mentors and peers
- Strengthen your foundational surgical knowledge
- Prepare for hands-on clinical training
- Seek out trusted educational resources
The transition from medical student to resident can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
You Do Not Walk Alone: Your AO Community
As you begin your orthopedic surgery residency, you become part of a community dedicated to excellence in patient care and surgical education.
Through AO North America, you gain access to:
- World-class, hands-on orthopedic training courses
- Mentorship opportunities with experienced surgeons
- A global network of orthopedic professionals
- Practical resources that bridge theory and surgical practice
- Training that prepares you for the OR
You bring the dedication—we provide the tools to help you master your craft.
Resources for New Orthopedic Residents
Starting residency is easier when you have the right support system. AO North America offers essential resources for orthopedic surgery residents, including:
- Skills-based training programs
- Case-based learning opportunities
- Peer and mentor connections
- Career development support
- Training that progresses as you progress through residency and fellowship
These resources are designed to help you succeed from your first day in the OR through every stage of your career.
Next Steps: Join the AO NA LINK Webinar on April 9, 2026
Your residency match is just the beginning—now it’s time to build your network and gain practical insights.
Join us on April 9, 2026, at 8 pm ET for AO NA LINK online session 10: Managing Consults as a Newly Matched MS4, designed specifically for new orthopedic residents.
In this session, you’ll gain:
- Insights for starting orthopedic residency
- Guidance from experienced surgeons
- Opportunities to connect with peers across North America
Learn more and register
Welcome to the AO NA Family
As you begin this next chapter, remember that you are part of a community committed to your growth, your success, and your future as a leader in orthopedic surgery.
We’re excited to be part of your journey!
