Knowledge does not equal action—bridging the chasm between research evidence and its application

The AO—a knowledge translation superpower?

More than most organizations, the AO Foundation has great potential to turn itself into a knowledge translation superpower in the future. Not only is it very active in terms of generating its own research, for example through its own ARI research institute and its clinical divisions such as AO Spine and its Knowledge Forums, AO Trauma, and AO CMF. Thanks to its strong footing in training and education, the AO is also in the unique position of being able to use its own research results right away to inform efforts like the AO courses and the numerous other educational events it organizes around the world every year.

“From a patient care standpoint, a 17-year gap is unacceptable, “ Bransford says.  “We have the opportunity and obligation to place the new knowledge we generate front and center and push implementation for the betterment of our patients and our society.  There are no excuses,  we can do better!”

The sustained effort the AO puts into the development of its international community of physicians, researchers, academics, and other stakeholders is another valuable asset in this regard. This is especially important when it comes to the local adaptation of research outcomes to various geographical regions. For instance, does it make sense to adapt a certain research result from Europe to a region like Latin America, where there are big differences in terms of patient population and healthcare standards? The AO's vast international network can be of great advantage in terms of answering questions such as these and accelerating research outcome uptake by its the global community.