Through education, research, and mentorship, Dr. Joseph Tauro proudly supports those who serve. His work in military orthopedic training reflects a shared mission — advancing surgical care for the men and women who protect our nation.
At the intersection of orthopedic innovation and national service, Dr. Tauro’s leadership in the Military Arthroscopy Surgical Training (MAST) program and his ongoing research in simulation-based education are helping strengthen military medical readiness while fostering collaboration between civilian and military surgeons.
Enhancing Surgical Readiness Through the MAST Program
For several years, Dr. Tauro has played an active role in the MAST Program, a multi-branch initiative dedicated to advancing arthroscopic and reconstructive surgical skills among military orthopedic surgeons.
Hands-On Training for Military Surgeons
Each year, MAST hosts an intensive four-day cadaveric lab that brings together specialists from the Army, Navy, and civilian medical communities. Participants engage in hands-on workshops using advanced arthroscopic instruments and minimally invasive techniques designed to improve precision and performance.
“It’s an honor to help train the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting ours,” said Dr. Tauro. “Their focus and commitment make teaching deeply rewarding.”
These programs not only sharpen surgical skills but also build partnerships that enhance military medical readiness and improve orthopedic care for active-duty service members and veterans.
Collaboration and Mentorship: Bridging Military and Medicine
Beyond MAST, Dr. Tauro contributes to residency and mentorship programs at military bases such as Fort Bragg and Walter Reed Hospital, where active-duty orthopedic surgeons work alongside experienced civilian physicians.
Partnership Through SOMOS
Through the Society of Military Orthopaedic Surgeons (SOMOS), these collaborations create powerful learning exchanges that strengthen the connection between academic medicine and the military’s mission of service.
“Education doesn’t just build technical skill — it builds confidence that improves the readiness of our soldiers”, Dr. Tauro shared.
AOSMI proudly supports these efforts and stands with the military medical community in advancing orthopedic excellence through shared knowledge, compassion, and innovation. We are proud to support efforts that expand orthopedic care for veterans through ongoing education, research, and collaboration with military medical professionals.
Advancing Orthopedic Education Through Simulation and Research
Dr. Tauro’s work extends beyond mentorship to groundbreaking research in surgical simulation and augmented reality (VR). His recent simulation comparison study, presented at MAST, evaluated multiple training models—from basic plastic simulators to immersive VR environments—to determine the best approach for teaching shoulder arthroscopy.
Combining Technology and Training
Early results suggest that combining multiple simulators provides the most comprehensive and effective training experience, offering surgeons the opportunity to master skills in both virtual and hands-on settings.
This work, currently under review for publication in the Journal of Arthroscopy, was developed in collaboration with the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) and SOMOS.
In addition, Dr. Tauro continues to study ACL reconstruction techniques and the use of biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance surgical recovery. These efforts reflect AOSMI’s mission to merge education, research, and innovation for the advancement of orthopedic care.
Why It Matters
Programs like MAST and mentorship initiatives across the country ensure that military orthopedic surgeons are equipped with the latest skills, techniques, and technologies. These collaborations ultimately benefit service members who depend on orthopedic care to recover from injuries sustained in training or duty.
By connecting academic research with real-world military practice, leaders like Dr. Joseph Tauro help support care for our armed forces and continues to evolve with precision, compassion, and purpose. AOSMI is honored to support these initiatives and stands committed to strengthening orthopedic education and readiness across all communities.
AOSMI’s Commitment to Our Military Community
At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifice of our nation’s military members. Through education, research, and compassionate care, our physicians proudly support initiatives that enhance the readiness and wellbeing of military medical professionals.
About Dr. Joseph Tauro
Dr. Tauro is certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and serves as a Master Instructor for the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA), where he sits on both the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
He is Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and a national lecturer on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgical techniques. His specialties include shoulder, hip, and knee procedures, joint preservation, cartilage transplantation, and the integration of augmented and virtual reality into orthopedic training.
Request an Appointment
If you’re seeking advanced orthopedic care, we invite you to visit Dr. Joseph Tauro at our Toms River office today. Our team proudly provides specialized, patient-centered orthopedic care — serving our local community and the military families who inspire us every day.
Call: (732)720-2555
Location: 9 Hospital Drive, Toms River, NJ 08755
*This blog from AOSMI is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patient outcomes vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care.
