As the recently appointed president of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, Dr. Paul Tornetta III is not just a national expert transforming musculoskeletal care, he’s dedicated to a compassionate approach—treating each of his patients like family. Dr. Tornetta is the chief of orthopedic surgery at Boston Medical Center (BMC), and he’s also actively building the next generation of orthopedic surgeons, directing the department’s residency program at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. In his role as professor, he is fiercely and intentionally passing along his expertise in orthopedic trauma and fracture care—for which he has set industry standards and core curricula—of to all his trainees, some of whom have already gone on to deliver elite surgical care across the globe.
We sat down with Dr. Tornetta to learn about his career journey, inspiring future orthopedic surgeons, and what people and places have inspired him along the way.
1. Why did you choose to specialize in orthopedics?
Aside from my interest in mechanics and physics, I enjoy having the opportunity to work with all patients of all ages who have injuries affecting all areas of the body. I have a holistic approach to medicine, which makes sense for me as an orthopedist. As an orthopedic trauma surgeon, I am interested in getting people back to their lives after having an injury.
2. What has kept you at BMC?
A culture of shared responsibility to provide the highest level of care to our patients. I have incredible faith in my colleagues, and we hold each other to the highest standard for our patients. It is one thing to create and be a part of a culture that you are proud of, it is another thing to keep it. At BMC, we have the infrastructure, support, and buy-in to keep it for years to come. Our core mission of excellence is taken seriously by our entire staff.
3. Who or what inspires you?
This one is easy... my mother, Phyllis. She imparted to me the belief that everyone deserves equal treatment and the benefit of doubt, and also to try to see the best in people. That is the goal she had for the world, and I am humbled to carry it out through medicine.
4. What do you enjoy doing to disconnect from work?
I have a passion for photography and time outdoors. One of my favorite places to capture landscapes and wildlife on the west coast. I find immense joy in capturing the whales that frequent the waters. Likewise, on the East Coast, I disconnect by capturing the peaceful sunrises over the ocean.
5. What aspect of your role gives you the most satisfaction?
My greatest pride is seeing trainees execute our mission: providing the highest level of care to our patients. As the director of the residency program, I’m lucky to be a part of their journey from intern to a peer and a colleague who is confident and capable. I have seen how the training we provide at BMC is a force multiplier. Through our graduates, who go on to provide first-class care around the world, we touch thousands of lives.
