In Memory of Dr. Michael Aronow
It is with profound sadness that Orthopedic Associates of Hartford (OAH) announces the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Dr. Michael Aronow. Dr. Aronow was an exceptional orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle care, a dedicated educator, and a tireless advocate for patient safety. His contributions to our practice and the broader orthopedic community were unparalleled, and his loss will be deeply felt by his colleagues, patients, and all who had the privilege to know him.
Dr. Aronow joined OAH in 2012, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. Prior to joining OAH, he spent over fifteen years on the full-time faculty at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, where he served as an Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery. He remained connected to UConn as a Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, continuing to share his expertise with future generations of orthopedic specialists.
In 2023, Dr. Aronow was named President of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS), the leading organization dedicated to the surgical and nonoperative treatment of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity. In this role, he worked tirelessly to advance the organization’s vision of leading the global community in foot and ankle education, research, innovation, and advocacy. That same year, the Connecticut Orthopaedic Society recognized Dr. Aronow’s extraordinary service by awarding him the prestigious Orthopaedist of the Year Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Society.
Throughout his career, Dr. Aronow was a passionate advocate for patient safety and physician rights. He was nationally recognized for his efforts with the first-ever American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) PAC Hall of Fame award and was instrumental in achieving 100% AAOS PAC statewide participation for Connecticut.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Aronow was a compassionate physician who prioritized patient care and well-being. He co-authored over 50 journal publications and more than 20 book chapters, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and advancing the field of orthopedic surgery. His clinical and research interests span nearly every aspect of foot and ankle care, including arthritis, sports injuries, traumatic injuries, and complex foot deformities.
While we mourn Dr. Aronow’s passing, we remain committed to continuing his legacy of excellence in patient care. Our team of highly skilled foot and ankle physicians will ensure a seamless continuum of care for his patients, providing the same level of expertise, compassion, and dedication that Dr. Aronow embodied throughout his career.
We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Aronow’s family, friends, and patients during this difficult time. His impact on OAH and the orthopedic community at large will be felt for years to come, and his memory will continue to inspire us all.