The origins of the International Society of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (SICOT) trace back to the early 20th century, spurred by collaborative discussions among pioneers like Vittorio Putti, Robert Lovett, Hans Spitzy, and later Fred Albee. While Lovett’s 1913 letter to Putti and Spitzy outlined initial plans for an international orthopaedic society, World War I and Lovett’s untimely death delayed its formation. Renewed efforts in the 1920s, led by Albee and Putti, gained momentum, culminating in a 1929 meeting where influential orthopaedic surgeons from various countries laid the foundation for SICOT. They recognized the need for international collaboration to advance orthopaedic surgery, agreeing to establish a triennial congress and a constitution inspired by the International Surgical Society.

The inaugural meeting of SICOT was held at the Hotel Crillon in Paris on October 10, 1929, with attendees from 13 countries. Despite language barriers and some initial resistance, the founders agreed on the society’s structure, membership, and bylaws, emphasizing inclusivity beyond national organizations. Key decisions included adopting multiple official languages and appointing officers without pay. Albee’s leadership and enthusiasm were instrumental in driving the society’s establishment, with Putti and others ensuring its forward momentum. This collaboration marked the beginning of a global exchange of orthopaedic knowledge and practice, solidifying SICOT as a pivotal organization in the field.

The original article can be found here