Shared Decision-making in Orthopaedic Surgery

Shared decision-making (SDM) is the process by which the physician and the patient collaborate to arrive at the evidence-based treatment that best aligns with the patient's individual goals of care. The implementation of SDM practices is especially important when an invasive surgical procedure is among the treatment options. Ideally, the variation in the patient treatment choice would mirror the variability in patient goals rather than variation in a physician's ability to communicate effectively. Potentially aiding in these communication efforts, decision aids are tools gaining popularity for their ability to help physicians facilitate the SDM process with patients. This article is intended to give the practicing orthopaedic surgeon an understanding of the concept of SDM and how it can improve physician-patient communication. We will explore the key elements of SDM, attendant benefits, indications, and barriers to implementation and propose steps to begin the incorporation of SDM into practice.