Established in 1983
San Diego Shoulder Institute (SDSI) began as an informal physician educational gathering in 1983. Having a passion to educate and improve patient care, James C. Esch, M.D. brought together a small group of San Diego, California- based orthopaedic surgeons. The initial group assembled as peers interested in perfecting arthroscopy skills in a case study format. The value of the sessions grew quickly in popularity and expressed interest. Within a few years, Dr. Esch began hosting the meeting as an annual formal CME event and eventually expanded to a four-day course. Course content also expanded to include arthroplasty, fracture management, surgical techniques, and rehabilitation. The educational format expanded to include lectures, model laboratories, cadaver laboratories, case study presentations, and workshops. Attendees began to come from International settings, bringing course attendance from 10 to an annual average of 400. In 2005, Dr. Esch formulated a Board of Directors and transitioned San Diego Shoulder Institute to a 501 (c)3 medical education organization. In that same year, SDSI applied for and received authorization to be an accredited provider from the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME).
Throughout the years, SDSI’s reputation as a stellar educational provider has continued to expand. Evaluative feedback confirms that SDSI is “the best shoulder course in the world”. Our Board consistently integrates best researched-based practice with expert faculty to continue to offer the leading shoulder course available.
