In this inspiring episode, Dr. Mary Mulcahey interviews Dr. David Dejour, internationally renowned knee surgeon, past president of ESSKA (European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery & Arthroscopy), and head of the Lyon Ortho Clinic. Dr. Dejour reflects on his distinguished career, leadership experiences, and the evolution of orthopaedic sports medicine
in Europe.
He shares how ESSKA has grown into a global organization emphasizing education, community, and the “ESSKA spirit,” including the development of cadaver courses, a core curriculum, and European certifications for advanced surgeons. Dr. Dejour highlights his role in launching the Women in ESSKA initiative and mentorship programs, helping diversify leadership in orthopaedics.
The conversation touches on pivotal career moments: building his own reputation alongside his father’s legacy, fellowship training in the U.S., leadership lessons from business school, and shaping the Lyon School of Knee Surgery’s collaborative culture. Dr. Dejour also speaks passionately  about teaching, research, and the joy of mentoring young surgeons, emphasizing curiosity, rigor, and creativity in clinical practice.
He concludes by advising young surgeons to fully commit to their passions, work hard, and embrace leadership opportunities as they arise.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership is strategic and long-term: Successful leadership in societies like ESSKA requires multi-year planning, collaboration, and continuity across presidential terms. 
• Education is central to impact: ESSKA’s cadaver courses, curriculum, and
  certifications have set new standards for surgeon education in Europe.
• Diversity and mentorship matter: The Women in ESSKA initiative and mentorship programs have helped open doors for female surgeons and foster inclusive leadership. 
• Pivotal moments shape leaders: Fellowship experiences abroad, stepping outside comfort zones, and personal growth programs were turning points in Dr. Dejour’s career. 
• Know yourself to lead others: His leadership training focused on self-awareness rather than leadership “rules,” emphasizing emotional intelligence and reflection. 
• Mentorship fuels the field: Teaching and challenging young surgeons keeps him inspired and drives innovation. 
• Operational excellence supports vision: Great ideas need strong teams and staff to bring them to life—both in surgical practice and organizational leadership. 
• Commit fully to your passions: Leadership opportunities arise naturally when you’re deeply engaged and hardworking in your chosen field.