Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program

Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Fellowship Overview

The Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Fellowship at the LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans consists of a comprehensive one-year training program designed to equip fellows with the necessary skills for independent surgical and non-surgical care of children with various orthopaedic conditions. The fellowship is hosted at the Children's Hospital New Orleans (CHNOLA), which serves as an integral training site, providing exposure to diverse clinical practices.

Fellows benefit from a collegial environment characterized by a collaborative approach to patient care, extensive hands-on surgical training, and opportunities to engage in clinical research. The fellowship program aims to provide an enriching educational experience that emphasizes excellence in pediatric orthopaedics and fosters lifelong learning among its participants.

Program Highlights

Key features of the fellowship include the following:

• Fellows have the flexibility to choose cases, clinics, and subspecialty experiences tailored to their career goals.
• They enjoy a high volume of surgical cases, with approximately 75% of their time spent in the operating room.
• A structured didactic curriculum including Grand Rounds, weekly lectures, and journal clubs fosters a robust learning atmosphere.
• Monthly lunch meetings with the fellowship director facilitate discussion of individual experiences and future career paths.
• Research opportunities are abundant, including funded attendance at national conferences.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum encompasses various key components:

• Clinical Responsibilities: Each fellow is required to participate in at least one clinic day per week, interacting directly with patients to develop treatment plans alongside faculty attendings.
• Operative Experience: Fellows participate in four scheduled operative days per week, with the opportunity to select cases of interest from diverse subspecialty areas such as spine deformities, trauma, and complex foot deformities.
• Multidisciplinary Clinics: Involvement in specialized clinics for conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy allows fellows to engage with multidisciplinary teams.
• Surgical case logs are reviewed monthly to ensure a diverse case experience that meets ACGME requirements.

Research Initiatives

The fellowship program actively encourages participation in research, supported by collaborations with medical students and faculty. Fellows are allocated educational funds to facilitate travel and presentation at national conferences, thereby enhancing research output and scholarly productivity. The program also provides protected time on Friday afternoons for fellows to engage in academic pursuits, including research and lecture preparation.

Support for Visa and Application Requirements

The program accommodates foreign applicants and supports visa sponsorship for J-1 visas only. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including successful completion of the Step 3 examination prior to fellowship entry. Those interested in the fellowship are required to submit complete applications through the San Francisco Match platform, including a medical school transcript, three letters of reference, a personal statement, and other relevant documentation.

Competitiveness and Selection Process

The Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Fellowship is somewhat competitive in its applicant selection, considering variables such as USMLE scores, letters of recommendation, and interview performance. The program welcomes a diverse array of applicants, including both US and international medical graduates, thus fostering an inclusive environment.

Living in New Orleans

New Orleans is celebrated for its vibrant culture, rich history, and numerous festivals, presenting a unique backdrop for residents. The city offers an array of recreational activities, culinary experiences, and a strong sense of community.

Community and Alumni Network

The fellowship program at LSU boasts a robust alumni network, with many graduates occupying prominent positions in pediatric orthopaedics throughout the United States and beyond. This network not only enhances fellowship training but also provides mentorship opportunities to current trainees.