What is ESSKA European Certification?
The ESSKA European Certification Programme is based on the ESSKA Specialist Core Curriculum. It is modular in structure, with individual specialists being encouraged to study one or more ‘Modules’ directly relevant to their current or future clinical practice.
Participants should have 3 years post specialism experience and be familiar with the procedures being performed
With each module consisting of three extensive assessments, the European Certification Programme sets the benchmark for surgical excellence in the orthopaedic community. Each Module is similar in structure, workload, learning activities and assessment.
Successful completion of each Module will lead to the award of an ESSKA European Certification in that surgical specialisation.
The completion of all 4 arthroscopic knee Modules (ACL, Meniscus, Multi-Ligament, Patello-Femoral) will lead to the ESSKA Certificate of Excellence in the Arthroscopic Knee Domain, and accreditation as an ESSKA Teacher.
ESSKA
CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME
Application closing
on 15 October 2026
ACL Module Structure
Theory component (online theory study and multiple-choice assessment)
In-person surgical skills course (surgical skills assessment)
Clinical reasoning (reflection on using techniques in practice, case study presentation)
Module start date is 1 November 2026
In-person assessments 12-13 March 2027.
Application closing
on 15 October 2026
Meniscus Structure
Theory component (online theory study and multiple-choice assessment)
In-person surgical skills course (surgical skills assessment)
Clinical reasoning (reflection on using techniques in practice, case study presentation)
Module start date is 8 November 2026.
In-person assessments 19-20 March 2027
Assessment & awards:
Part I - online theory assessment
Part II - in-person surgical skills assessment
Part III - clinical reasoning case study assessment