SICOT, Société Internationale de Chirurgie Orthopédique et de Traumatologie, is an international non-profit association incorporated under Belgian law with the aim to promote the advancement of the science and art of orthopaedics and traumatology at international level in particular for the improvement of patient care, and to foster and develop teaching, research and education. In 2014, SICOT celebrated its 85th anniversary.

The current gatherings of surgeons from 110 member nations and others beside each year are now highly organised scientific, clinical and social events. The expressions of pleasure at meeting friends speak well of the congenial bonds among the members of SICOT. 

SICOT is setting world standards of surgical competence – knowledge plus clinical skills – by offering an annual Diploma Examination comparable to those of exemplary institutions in highly developed countries. The two highest scoring graduates of this examination are awarded a travelling fellowship from the German Section of SICOT which provides a fully funded tour of the German centres of excellence. The SICOT Journal, International Orthopaedics, has shown steady gains in the Philadelphia-based publication reference rating. SICOT’s Manual of Education Objectives is there to guide trainees along a map to the goal of full training. The SICOT group on Facebook and e-Newsletter is used widely for continuous communication among members and interested non-members. It spreads the word, announcements and conversations among members. The SICOT Fellowships offer unique opportunities for education and exchange. The SICOT Foundation helps to provide funds for travel to conferences and to work with masters of surgery in notable teaching centres. Young Surgeons Workshops provide forums for learning from invited experts but of particular importance, they allow young surgeons an opportunity to present their own research to their colleagues.

An increasingly successful initiative has been the creation of Orthopaedic Education Centres. They provide an opportunity for education, research and manual skills training. They are open to community surgeons, nurses and physiotherapists. In fact, they can bring a whole orthopaedic community together.