Medical University of South Carolina Program

The Orthopaedic Residency Training Program at the Medical University of South Carolina is designed to provide residents with exceptional academic and clinical education in the field of orthopaedics. The program is committed to different aspects of orthopaedic training, preparing residents for independent practice post-graduation. The training framework is aligned to foster perpetual learning, with an emphasis on clinical skills, surgical expertise, and research understanding.

Mission Statement

The program's mission is to deliver a comprehensive educational experience that facilitates an experiential understanding of orthopaedic research while nurturing a commitment to lifelong learning and teaching in its graduates. This mission is fundamental for equipping residents with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice orthopaedics independently successfully.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency spans five years, during which residents acquire a broad foundation in various orthopaedic subspecialties. The curriculum is structured to allow for both clinical education and research participation, ultimately preparing each resident for the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Part 1 exam. Key areas of training include pediatric orthopaedics, total joint replacement, spine surgery, trauma, sports medicine, hand surgery, prosthetics and amputations, and orthopaedic oncology.

The program entails working closely with faculty members, which provides valuable mentorship and guidance.. This collaboration facilitates residents in taking on increased responsibility for assessing musculoskeletal problems and developing appropriate care solutions based on their demonstrated competencies. Weekly conferences and self-directed study augment clinical training, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

Training Sites

The residency operates across several significant training sites, including the MUSC University Hospital, Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center. Additionally, residents benefit from exposure in ambulatory clinics located in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and the Nexton vicinity in Summerville. This extensive network of training environments helps provide a diverse clinical experience.

Research Involvement

A vital component of the residency program is the commitment to research, which is integrated into the residency experience. Throughout their five years, residents are assigned specific research project goals. Participation in research is mandatory, ensuring that residents not only gain practical skills but also contribute to the advancement of the field of orthopaedics.

Application Process

The application process for the Orthopaedic Residency involves submission through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). In addition to the standard ERAS requirements, applicants must provide a minimum of three letters of recommendation, including one from their department chair and a Dean's letter, submitted by a deadline. The faculty is committed to fostering an inclusive environment, encouraging women and underrepresented minorities to apply. Interviews are conducted annually in December and January, and the program matches five residents each year.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is considered highly competitive, making it crucial for applicants to exhibit exemplary academic credentials, clinical aptitude, and strong communication skills. Moreover, applicants must be mindful of the specific guidelines issued by the program, as these include eligibility criteria regarding graduation year and maximum allowable failed STEP exams. This structured competitiveness aims to select residents who can thrive within the rigorous educational environment.

Visa Support

The Orthopaedic Residency Training Program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Commonly accepted visa types include J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas, which are often preferred for medical residency programs. The program’s commitment to supporting its residents extends to providing assistance and guidance for those pursuing training through these visa avenues.

Resident Experience

Residents in the program have expressed positive insights into their experiences, highlighting the camaraderie fostered among peers and the supportive teaching environment provided by faculty members. Feedback emphasizes a culture built on mutual support, where residents feel comfortable seeking guidance amidst the rigors of training.