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Overlooked in the Operating Room: Sexual and Gender Minority Visibility in Orthopaedic Surgery

  • Apr 20, 2026
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Abstract Book of the 5th International Conference on LGBT studies

Year: 2026

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Overlooked in the Operating Room: Sexual and Gender Minority Visibility in Orthopaedic Surgery

Benjamin Ramsahoye

ABSTRACT:

Orthopaedic surgery has historically been regarded as one of the least diverse specialties in medicine. Whilst several studies have investigated the representation of sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals within the orthopaedic workplace, the evidence base remains limited and fragmented. Current literature suggests that approximately 3–5% of orthopaedic professionals identify as LGBTQ+, compared with 20% of the healthcare workforce in the UK. Possible explanations for underrepresentation include perceived negative stereotypes and reports of discrimination, with up to 74% of SGM orthopaedic professionals describing experiences of bullying or differential treatment. These factors pose significant barriers to entry for prospective LGBTQ+ trainees. In addition, there is an increasing incidence of clinical presentations which disproportionately affect certain SGM groups, such as gonococcal septic arthritis in sexual minority men. Evidence suggests that patients from this group are more likely to openly discuss sexual health topics with LGBTQ+ identifying healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of workforce diversity in improving doctor-patient communication. Although further robust epidemiological evidence is needed to better characterise SGM representation in orthopaedics, strategies such as initiatives to improve LGBTQ+ visibility, mentorship programmes, and educational interventions should be considered. These approaches may contribute to improved workforce wellbeing, enhanced sustainability, and higher standards of patient care. In summary, the findings highlight the need for strategies to improve visibility and inclusion in orthopaedic surgery, which may be widely applicable to other surgical and medical specialties alike.

Keywords: Diversity; Healthcare; LGBTQ+; Mentorship; Workforce