Throughout October, the Caribbean Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (TCOS) is marking a major milestone, celebrating two decades of regional collaboration, professional development, and improved access to orthopaedic care across the region. 

As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, TCOS hosted its annual scientific meeting from October 3–5, followed by its annual banquet on October 4. The events brought together distinguished regional and international speakers, surgeons, and residents for a gathering of knowledge and fellowship. What began as an informal gathering of 23 orthopaedic surgeons from eight English-speaking Caribbean territories in 2005, affectionately called “Lime I”, has since grown into the premier association for orthopaedic advancement in the region. 

Officially launched in 2007, TCOS has spent the past two decades creating spaces for surgeons and residents to share knowledge, sharpen skills, and address the unique challenges faced in resource-limited settings. Since its inception, TCOS has steadily expanded its impact and reputation. It has been incorporated under the Companies Act in Jamaica, registered as a charitable organisation, and recognised as an international association of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). 

Growing stronger over the years

For 20 years, TCOS has remained steadfast in its vision, promoting high-quality care for the people of the Caribbean through the advancement of the science, art, and practice of orthopaedic surgery. This anniversary stands not only as a celebration of what has been accomplished, but also as a call to action to build on this legacy for generations to come. Its annual scientific meetings, hosted on a rotating basis across the region, have brought together surgeons, residents, and global experts to collaborate on cutting-edge research and exchange surgical expertise. Over the years, initiatives such as resident scholarships, webinars, speciality training courses, and workshops have further enriched the professional growth of Caribbean orthopaedic surgeons and advanced patient care across the region.

Reflecting on the origins of TCOS, one of the association’s founders, Dr Christopher Rose, shared, “I am Grenadian by birth, Jamaican by citizenship and Caribbean in perspective. As Caribbean people, we have always tended to look to North America, rather than looking inwards and trying to harness and develop the talents that are in the Caribbean. It was and still is my belief that Orthopaedic surgeons in the Caribbean should be more aware of the challenges that confront each of us in our respective territories and to offer technical support and guidance, when needed, to our colleagues who work in environments with limited resources.”

Speaking on the milestone, president of TCOS, Dr Camille Quan Soon, emphasised, “marking 20 years is not just about honouring our history, but about carrying forward our commitment to our mission”.

“TCOS has become a vital vehicle for the dissemination of Orthopaedic knowledge in the English-speaking Caribbean, and we remain committed to supporting surgeons, residents, and ultimately, the patients we serve. As we look ahead, our focus will be on growing membership, expanding training opportunities, and strengthening our regional and international collaborations,” she added.