Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery and Scoliosis Fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine offers a comprehensive one-year training program aimed at providing in-depth experience in pediatric orthopaedics. The program is particularly notable as it is situated at Indiana's only Pediatric Level I Trauma Center, allowing fellows to engage with a broad range of cases and procedures.

This fellowship emphasizes a dynamic training environment, characterized by hands-on surgical experience and focused mentorship from experienced faculty members. The engagement with IU School of Medicine's faculty orthopaedic surgeons is specially tailored to enhance fellows' surgical techniques and overall skills, ensuring an effective learning experience. The program is accredited by the ACGME and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) 1.

Clinical Experience

The clinical experience is robust, with the program reporting over 1,600 surgical cases and 20,000 outpatient visits within a single year. Indiana University Health’s location in Indianapolis is crucial, as it services a diverse population of approximately 9 million people due to the absence of other Level I pediatric trauma centers in the state. The program thus allows fellows to participate actively in a variety of cases, addressing trauma treatment as well as a wide array of pediatric orthopaedic conditions.

Fellows engage in a busy surgical schedule, including around 250 elbow fractures annually, more than 100 spinal fusions, and a focused effort on clubfoot treatment using the Ponseti method. The program also incorporates an active pediatric sports service, providing exposure to procedures such as ACL reconstruction, meniscal repair, and shoulder instability management. In addition, fellows gain essential experience in hip reconstruction, limb lengthening techniques, and treatment of musculoskeletal infections 1.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship is structured to favor customizable learning, enabling fellows to allocate time according to their specific interests. The fellow’s training is organized into three-month blocks with two to three attending surgeons, allowing for focused mentorship. During the final three months, the fellow selects which attending surgeons to work with most closely, facilitating up to six months of customized training 1.

Professional Development

Professional development is a significant element of the fellowship. Participation in didactic teaching sessions and presenting at weekly pediatric orthopaedic teaching conferences is expected. The fellow also plays a role in teaching junior residents about casting and engages in case reviews during follow-up conferences. Research is strongly encouraged, and fellows must complete a research project intended for publication or presentation by the conclusion of the fellowship year 1.

Admissions

Prospective fellows must apply through the San Francisco Match process, an organized and transparent method of matching applicants with programs. This occurs in April of the year preceding the fellowship start date, following a thorough application and interview process. The matching methodology aims to ensure a fair and equitable selection of candidates for this competitive fellowship 1.

Current and Former Fellows

The fellowship is currently home to fellows from various backgrounds, providing a rich learning environment. The program's structure supports not only the education of current trainees but also fosters alumni networks that enhance professional opportunities and mentorship beyond graduation 2.

Visa Support

The program is equipped to support international applicants through specific visa sponsorship. Although the detailed types of visas offered are subject to change, fellows from international backgrounds can typically expect support in applying for visas that facilitate their fellowship training in the United States. This commitment to inclusivity helps attract a diverse group of applicants, enhancing the learning atmosphere for all fellows.

Competitiveness

The fellowship program is regarded as highly competitive, attracting applicants with a variety of backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates. The selection process is increasingly focused on candidates who demonstrate exemplary clinical skills and research potential.

Special Application Requirements

Prior to applying, candidates may need to meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being graduates of ACGME-accredited residency programs. The fellowship does not explicitly list restrictions on failed STEP exams or year of graduation, emphasizing a holistic review process during admissions 1.