ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To describe the experiences and current situation of AO Spine Fellows in Latin America, as well as the concerns of junior spine surgeons in their first 3 years of practice. METHODS: A multiple-choice questionnaire was sent to AO Spine Associate Fellows who completed their studies within the past 5 years. This survey aimed to gather information on their professional activities during the initial 3 years of practice following their fellowship. By comparing the responses and activities undertaken by surgeons on a country-by-country basis, it will be possible to describe and analyze the local and regional outcomes in Latin America. RESULTS: The countries with the highest participation in the AO Spine Fellowship program are currently Argentina (30.7%), Brazil, and Colombia (28.21%). Participants aged 36 to 45 are the age group with the highest engagement (30.7%). Among program participants, 75% are orthopedists. Other notable findings include that 95% of respondents have greater experience and feel more comfortable working in degenerative spine pathology. CONCLUSIONS: Currently, junior fellows in the AO Spine program report a high level of comfort with the initiative. However, our study reveals valuable insights that can contribute to its improvement. It is worth noting that there is a clear preference for the standard posterior approach persists. Nevertheless, there is a growing interest among junior surgeons in endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques. This study serves as a gateway to essential data for future studies and the enhancement of the Fellowship education program in Latin America.