ConferenceThe 73rd South African Orthopaedic Association (SAOA) Congress will take place from 6 to 9 September 2027 at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town, South Africa. As the annual scientific meeting of the South African Orthopaedic Association, the congress brings together orthopaedic surgeons, trainees, researchers and allied healthcare professionals from across South Africa and the wider African continent, alongside invited international faculty.
The congress provides a comprehensive scientific programme covering the full spectrum of orthopaedic surgery and traumatology. Sessions traditionally include orthopaedic trauma, fracture management, arthroplasty, sports medicine, spine surgery, hand and upper-extremity surgery, paediatric orthopaedics, musculoskeletal oncology and specialist education. The meeting combines keynote lectures, instructional courses, free paper presentations, expert panel discussions and opportunities for collaboration between clinicians, researchers and industry.
Particular emphasis is placed on evidence-based clinical practice, education and the challenges of delivering orthopaedic care across diverse healthcare settings. Topics such as complex trauma, bone healing, musculoskeletal infection, reconstruction, implant technology and new surgical techniques are regularly featured alongside discussions on innovation and clinical research. A technical exhibition complements the scientific programme, providing delegates with access to the latest orthopaedic implants, devices and medical technologies.
As one of the leading orthopaedic meetings in Africa, the SAOA Congress provides an important platform for professional development, scientific exchange and international collaboration. The 2027 meeting in Cape Town is expected to attract delegates from across Africa and beyond, reflecting the growing role of the region in orthopaedic research, education and clinical practice.