The June 7, 2017 issue of JBJS contains one more in a series of personal essays where orthopaedic clinicians tell a story about a high-impact experience they had that altered their worldview, enhanced them personally, and positively affected the care they provide as orthopaedic physicians.
This “What’s Important” piece comes from Dr. Frederick A. Matsen, III of the University of Washington. In his moving tribute to former colleague Doug Harryman, Dr. Matsen explains how his friend and mentor’s devotion to improving patient outcomes was matched by an unwavering faith that permeated every aspect of his life. The article includes a link to a series of engaging videos that Dr. Harryman made to share his many discoveries about shoulder function with the world.
If you would like JBJS to consider your “What’s Important” story for publication, please submit a manuscript via Editorial Manager. When asked to select an article type, please choose Orthopaedic Forum and include “What’s Important:” at the beginning of the title.
Because they are personal in nature, “What’s Important” submissions will not be subject to the usual stringent JBJS peer-review process. Instead, they will be reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief, who will correspond with the author if revisions are necessary and make the final decision regarding acceptance.
My name is Mike Voelkel. I lived in Washington for most of my life and was a baseball pitcher. My arm was damaged in the 80’s. I remember Dr. Harryman showing me a picture of my rotator cuff and it looked like a rabbits tail. I have sense moved to California in 2007. I was made aware of Dr. Doug Harryman’s passing only recently. According to Dr. Harryman, I was the first rotor cuff surgery that was done with a scope. There were around 5-7 other doctors in the room from around the world to witness the procedure. He said he didn’t think I would be able to throw again because of the extent of the damage and the procedure itself. I was not able to throw competitively, but I was able to throw again, with no pain. I owe my ability to use my arm normally to Dr. Harryman.
Sincerely,
Mike Voelkel
He was a true pioneer. Thanks for helping to keep his memory alive.
Rick Matsen