Q&A: Getting to Know Dr Sarah Murgatroyd, Orthopaedic Surgeon

We caught up with Dr Sarah Murgatroyd in between surgeries to learn more about the person behind the profession—her journey into medicine, what drives her, and the insights she’s gained along the way.

Q1. Sarah, can you tell us a little about your journey into orthopaedic surgery?

A: I trained in medicine in London before moving to New Zealand, where I completed my orthopaedic training and fellowship exams. From there, I undertook subspecialty fellowships in upper limb and paediatric orthopaedics across Sydney, Brisbane, and the UK.

Those experiences gave me a broad and diverse foundation, and I’ve been practicing in Brisbane since 2019, focusing on adult upper limb conditions and paediatric orthopaedics — particularly complex and less straightforward cases.

Q2. What areas of orthopaedics are you most passionate about?

A: I’m particularly drawn to cases where the answer isn’t immediately obvious.
That includes complex upper limb conditions — shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand — as well as paediatric orthopaedics, including congenital and developmental conditions.

In both areas, what I value most is being able to provide clarity — helping patients and families understand what’s going on, and what actually needs to happen next. These areas allow me to make a tangible difference to quality of life, whether it’s restoring movement after trauma or helping children with long-term mobility challenges.

Q3. You’ve worked in several countries — how has that shaped your perspective?

A: Working across New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and undertaking an observership in South Africa has given me a broader perspective on how healthcare systems operate.

It’s reinforced the importance of adaptability, communication, and thoughtful decision-making — particularly when resources, expectations, and patient needs vary.

I’ve taken those learnings into my current practice, where I focus on delivering clear, considered, and patient-centred care.

Q4. Beyond surgery, you’re very involved in teaching and mentoring. Why is that important to you?

A: Teaching has always been an important part of my work. I’m a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Queensland and have been involved in registrar education at Redcliffe Hospital.

Passing on knowledge is both a responsibility and a privilege — and it also keeps me constantly learning and refining my own practice.

Q5. You’re known for your advocacy around diversity in orthopaedics. Can you share more about that?

A: Yes — orthopaedics has traditionally been a male-dominated specialty. I’ve always felt strongly about representation and the need to create inclusive environments where all trainees feel supported. Diversity brings different perspectives and improves the way we care for patients. Advocacy in this space is about ensuring the profession evolves to better reflect the community we serve.

Q6. What current research projects are you working on?

A: I’m involved in a number of projects, including work on the use of internal fixations in unstable elbow joints, anatomical studies in flatfoot, and the role of physiotherapy in preventing complications following elbow surgery.

Research is an important part of advancing orthopaedics — helping us refine treatment approaches and improve outcomes over time.

Q7. Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of orthopaedics?

A: I see the field becoming more personalised and technologically advanced, particularly with innovations in imaging, robotics, and patient-specific implants. But just as important is accessibility — ensuring that these advancements don’t widen gaps in healthcare. My vision is a specialty that combines cutting-edge surgical practice with equity of care, no matter where a patient lives or what their background may be.

Q8. What do you enjoy outside of medicine?

A: I love spending time with my family — they keep me grounded. I also enjoy pottery, which is wonderfully therapeutic, and kite-surfing, which is a little more adrenaline-filled. Having those creative and physical outlets helps me recharge so I can give my best at work.

If you’ve got a question for Dr Sarah Murgatroyd about upper limb, paediatric or trauma orthopaedics, or her work at Moreton Bay Orthopaedic Practice, head over to our LinkedIn and leave a comment.