Handover of the baton at the Eduardus Hospital in Cologne

Both have been long-time companions of the A2® short-shaft approach. One, Dr. Thorsten Hillmann, assumed the role of Chief Physician at the Eduardus Hospital in Cologne on July 1, 2025. The other, Dr. Nikolaus Szöke, has relinquished his position as Chief Physician and will remain with the hospital as a Senior Consultant. We spoke with both of them.

Dr. Thorsten Hillmann and Dr. Nikolaus Szöke

While changes in chief physicians can often lead to far-reaching changes elsewhere, the focus at “Eduardus” is on continuity. The Department of General Orthopedics and Orthopedic Rheumatology has rarely brought in external physicians in recent years. Instead, the clinic relies on the thorough training of its own specialists, who can gradually become dermatologists in their areas of expertise.

“I have been working with the team for eight years and have grown within the hospital,” confirms Dr. Hillmann, highlighting the hospital’s policy, which he intends to continue as chief physician. “I am pleased that our board has chosen Dr. Hillmann as the new chief physician,” says Dr. Szöke, expressing his satisfaction with the choice. Dr. Szöke himself will be available to the clinic as a senior consultant and will pass on his knowledge to the next generation of physicians.

Since 2012, the entire clinic team – together with fellow chief physician Dr. Jochem Schunck – has increased the number of surgeries by 100% and expects significant increases in the future, including in revision surgeries. “That’s why it’s important that we continue to advance our training and optimize our processes so that we can handle the increasing number of surgeries,” explains Dr. Hillmann.

The team’s projects include expanding revision arthroplasty and shoulder surgery, as well as a standardized rotation plan for residents, who will be able to familiarize themselves with general orthopedics, spine surgery, and trauma surgery. A stronger focus on science and research is also on the agenda. Finally, there is the need to further digitize processes and reduce repetitive tasks: “During the pandemic, we introduced video consultations for initial consultations. This is working extremely well for discussing initial questions with patients from the surrounding area and clarifying what they need to bring for the procedure,” explains Dr. Hillmann.

The hospital, located on the right bank of the Rhine on Cologne’s “schäl Sick” (Schäl Sick), is one of the leading clinics for short-stem implants in Germany. “We’re doing very well with the A2® Short Stem,” says Dr. Hillmann. Both physicians appreciate the openness and the opportunity to discuss technical solutions with the ARTIQO experts. “I’m actively involved in the A2® training for new users and greatly value the friendly atmosphere among my colleagues,” says Dr. Hillmann, describing the collaboration. “The intensive exchange and the willingness to learn from one another gives the new surgeons a great deal of confidence.”