The relationship between orthopaedics and industry must be reformed

It is well-known that the long-standing relationship between orthopaedics and industry has benefited both parties. However, strong evidence indicates that the relationship is no longer a balanced one. Through a very effective stratagem, industry has used its enormous marketing power to a degree where the education of the orthopaedists now is, to a great degree, under its control and structured to satisfy its marketing needs. Orthopaedics' dependency on industry's support has resulted in our profession gradually abandoning its traditional values and ethical principles, and adopting those of the business community. This change is not in the best interest of medicine. The orthopaedic community, although striving to maintain a mutually productive relationship with industry, should forbid any intrusion into our autonomy in the areas of education and research.