Dr. Matt Daggett’s interest in orthopedic research and education has directed his career path. It led him to start a new practice and keeps him focused on improving outcomes for his patients. He shares some background on these personal passions.

Why do you enjoy teaching students medical students?
I enjoy teaching med students because knowledge is best shared. It’s a ripple effect: the impact teaching one student in turn has an impact on every patient that future physician treats. The students continue to push me with new questions, which in turn drives better outcomes. I’ve had and still have some great teachers and mentors, and I hope to be as helpful to my students.
Also, the anatomy lab at KCU is top notch. Collaborating with students and the school has allowed for a significant amount of orthopedic research to be published. The students have a tremendous thirst for research and to utilize all the schools resources.

How and why do you partner with international surgeons?

Due to my fellowships abroad, I developed relationships and friendships that has allowed for continued dialogue and exchange of ideas. Other countries approach medicine, training and healthcare differently. When we collaborate on projects, we can exchange our unique perspectives and ideas for innovating techniques.

For example, I shared my ACL repair technique with French orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Sonnery-Cottet, last year. He repaired an Olympic skier, who was then able to compete just a few months after her injury. Additionally, his innovation in ACL construction influenced me to change my technique. He also slightly modified his technique based on my usage of the ACL internal brace.

Why are you passionate about research?

I have constantly sought out orthopedic research opportunities, whether it was as an undergrad assisting with dissections of rabbit muscle and then repair, or as an orthopedic resident “nerding out” on a 130 page review of regenerative medicine or tissue engineering.

Also, I have always challenged status quo. Sure, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. But, sometimes, we think things work better than they actually do. The data doesn’t lie in clinical outcomes.

How does your research impact the way you treat patients?

It drives me to identify what works and what we can do better. It helps us improve outcomes and lives of our patients.  The orthopedic research I’ve been involved in has directly impacted the surgical techniques for each patient. It also impacts the decision making process of which technique to use.

Orthopedics is a rapidly changing field, and at Sano, we are proud to be on the forefront.  We are not employed by a university nor does research resonate with the general population. Our passion for better results is what drives our research and education interest. Being involved in creating a better tomorrow is a privilege that we take seriously.  Our unique backgrounds and spirit of collaboration will continue to drive innovation in the quest for better outcomes for our patients.