Susan Liew

Susan Liew is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Monash University and a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon with a specialized focus on spine surgery. She serves as a Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) at The Royal Children's Hospital within the Scoliosis/Spinal Deformity Service and has been the Director of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Alfred since 2007, following a prior directorship at Austin Health (2003–2007). Her clinical expertise is complemented by a strong commitment to medical education, where she has chaired regional training programs and currently serves as an examiner for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Her research interests span Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Surgery, Medical Education, and Geriatric Orthopaedics. She is particularly focused on surgical outcomes, perioperative care in older adults, and risk stratification using tools like the Modified Frailty Index. Her educational leadership is evident in her role in shaping surgical training across Victoria and Tasmania.

The trends in her recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on evidence-based orthopaedic practice, with multiple systematic reviews and clinical studies on joint replacements, spinal surgery complications, and patient-centered outcomes in aging populations. Her work increasingly integrates geriatric assessment into surgical planning, aligning with national health priorities.

Her scientific awards include:

• AOA Leadership Award (2007)
• State Award for Excellence in Teaching (2008)
• State Award for Excellence in Teaching (2009)

She has been actively involved in research grants and projects, including the ERAS Ortho program for hip and knee surgery and studies on bacterial infection in spinal discs. She also contributes to government advisory through the Ministerial Advisory Committee for Surgical Services. While she does not appear to have formal PhD students listed, her role as an educator and examiner indicates significant mentorship in surgical training.

Susan Liew is affiliated with key research networks and leads or contributes to multi-institutional projects, particularly in enhancing recovery pathways and improving care for elderly surgical patients. Her work is aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to good health and well-being.