Advancing patient care through the thoughtful exchange of ideas.

Of paramount importance was the mandate to commit to long-term relationships with other members and their families. Indeed, over the past 15 years, this group has become an extended family with deep connections that extend far beyond the boundaries of our profession.

Fellowship trained surgeons committed to advancing patient care

The Association of Clinical Elbow and Shoulder Surgeons is a group of fellowship trained elbow and shoulder surgeons who share the common goal of the advancement of patient care through collaboration. The Association conducts discussions of complicated elbow and shoulder cases online and during the annual scientific meeting. Through participation in ACESS, members strive to improve the quality of care provided to patients with elbow and shoulder disorders.

2025 Annual Meeting

July 31 - August 3, 2025
Skamania Lodge
Stevenson, WA
This summer, ACESS will celebrate 20 years of improving shoulder & elbow care through collaboration.

Education

ACESS surgeons are thought leaders who participate in the education and training of orthopedic residents and shoulder & elbow fellows at leading academic institutions, and lecture at national and international academic meetings.

Research

Our faculty membership collaborate to investigate shoulder and elbow clinical conditions and treatments. There are currently 3 ongoing research projects that have IRB approval.

Mission

Develop a collegial atmosphere of friendship and community for members and their families, to encourage long-term relationships and sharing of ideas.

Purpose

Bring together a group of physicians who share a common interest in shoulder and elbow surgery for the purposes of:
1. Providing a peer group with whom to share clinical cases
2. Furthering our own education in shoulder and elbow surgery
3. Develop a network of shoulder and elbow surgeons for patient care and referral
4. Provide a platform for evaluating patient outcome in multi-centered studies

History

ACESS was founded in 2005 by a core group of shoulder and elbow surgeons. Membership is by invitation with specific criteria that is voted on by the active membership. The Annual Scientific meeting is open to all members and to industry for society support.