The AO Foundation is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization led by an international group of surgeons specialized in the treatment of trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Founded in 1958 by a group of Swiss surgeons who shared one goal - delivering radically improved patient outcomes in the treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. Today, the AO has a global network of over 520,000 surgeons, operating room personnel, and scientists in over 160 countries. It has almost 20,000 surgeon members working in the fields of trauma, spine, craniomaxillofacial (CMF), veterinary, and reconstructive surgery. Our mission is promoting excellence in patient care and outcomes in trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.