Duke University Hospital Program

The Duke University Hospital Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is a prestigious and comprehensive five-year ACGME-approved training program with eight positions. The program provides training in all subspecialty areas of orthopaedic surgery. Residents participate in outreach programs in underserved communities regionally and internationally. Competency is closely monitored through various evaluations, presentations, and examinations. Residents rotate through Duke University Hospital and its affiliated hospitals, gaining exposure to diverse clinical experiences.

Application requirements for the program include a personal statement, curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, USMLE/COMLEX scores, medical school transcript, MSPE/Dean's letter, and an ECFMG certificate for foreign medical graduates. The program emphasizes the importance of adhering to USMLE requirements and provides information on visa sponsorship for foreign medical graduates. The application deadline aligns with the start of residency programs reviewing applications.

The program at Duke University Hospital is dedicated to enhancing musculoskeletal education through various educational conferences, anatomy/surgical skills labs, research opportunities, and a strong core curriculum. The curriculum emphasizes clinical decision-making, comprehensive patient care, and technical skills. Faculty provide one-on-one teaching, anatomy/surgical skills labs, and didactic sessions. Additionally, residents have access to robust research opportunities.

Residents at Duke University Hospital have exposure to a structured curriculum that focuses on general orthopaedic core competencies. The program offers a range of educational conferences, including Specialty Core Conferences, Grand Rounds, Fracture/Trauma Conferences, and Core Skills Conferences. Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities and participate in various educational conferences throughout the week.

The program has established policies and procedures to ensure patient safety, resident well-being, and compliance with work hour requirements. Residents receive time off for vacation, holidays, and parental leave. Rotations are structured to provide residents with a diverse clinical experience in various orthopaedic subspecialties. Additionally, residents have the opportunity to pursue elective rotations and engage in research activities.

Duke University Hospital supports a diverse cohort of residents and provides resources to enhance education, patient care, and resident well-being. Residents have opportunities for leadership development, engagement in scholarly activities, and collaboration with faculty. The program prioritizes a comprehensive educational experience to prepare residents for successful careers in orthopaedic surgery.