An Expert Group (EG) is somewhat like the “backbone” in the product development process. Any new idea for an instrument, implant or technique is evaluated and handled by the Expert Groups. They involve surgeons from all specialties and regions collaborating closely with engineers starting from guidance in making first prototypes to clinical testing of new products. The expertise and experience of the involved surgeons mark a major asset in the development process as they provide their know-how during all stages ensuring that all new products address the actual clinical needs.

To date there is a combined EG dedicated to innovations and product development for Small Animal and Large Animal Surgery.

The VEEG is part of the AOTK (Trauma) System, which includes the following human EGs: Lower Extremity EG, Upper Extremity EG, Hand EG, Foot and Ankle EG, Knee EG, Pelvic EG, Computer-Assisted-Surgery EG, Pediatric EG, as well as the Minimal Invasive Surgery Working Group (WG), IM Nailing WG, External Fixation WG, and Asian WG.

Members of the VEEG
Chairperson	Watkins Jeffrey, USA, Equine
Vet Member	Beal Brian, USA, Small Animal
Vet Member	Boudrieau Randy, USA, Small Animal
Vet Member	Piras Alessandro, Ire, Small Animal
Vet Member	Kowaleski Michael, USA, Small Animal
ARI Member	Pearce Simon, CH, Large Animal
ADI Member	Mattys Romano, CH, ADI
Synthes Vet Member	Scholl Chris, USA
Synthes Vet Member	Touhailsky Daneen
Synthes Vet Member	Horan Tim

The VEEG works closely together with the development departments of the AO Foundation’s commercial partners. Other AO institutes such as the Research Institute (ARI) and Clinical Investigation & Documentation (CID) are involved to achieve optimal solutions for the patient’s benefit.

Development of surgical implants and instruments has always been a keystone within the activities of the AO Foundation. Dozens of independent medical members as well as many additional guest surgeons provide their experience to develop new treatment options according to clinical needs within the TK-System. Finally the TK-System supports the introduction of the new techniques and their respective teaching by AO Education. Responsible for the development of all new devices is a highly specialized organization of medical-technical commissions: the TK-System.

Involvement
The VEEG welcomes the input from innovative surgeons throughout the product development process. Besides the option to take part in the clinical testing, there is also the possibility to become the so-called “Medical Godfather” of a project. Medical Godfathers supervise the whole development process from the initial idea to test marketing and teaching at AO Courses. They report their feedback to the Expert Group on its meetings. The TK-System encourages participation in its work and welcomes everybody to share their ideas.

Contact
Any surgeon who sees a clinical need for a new or improved solution for implants, instruments, or techniques is invited to participate. To get in contact with the VEEG click here.