SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program

Saint Louis University School of Medicine offers a comprehensive five-year Orthopaedic Surgery Residency program. This program is fully accredited and designed to provide extensive training in various areas of orthopaedics, including both adult and pediatric specialties. Each year, five incoming PGY-1 residents are accepted into the program, totaling 27 residents currently in training. The initial PGY-1 year includes an orthopaedic-focused curriculum that adheres to the guidelines set forth by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), establishing a robust foundation in general surgery and related subspecialties.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency structure comprises clinical instruction over five years, transitioning from a broad exposure to specific subspecialties in orthopaedics. The PGY-2 through PGY-5 years are dedicated to in-depth training within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Residents engage in rotations covering a wide array of subspecialties, such as Trauma, Adult Reconstruction, Pediatric Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine, and Spine Surgery. These rotations occur primarily within state-of-the-art facilities, including SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.

Research Opportunities

The residency program not only emphasizes clinical proficiency but also prioritizes research involvement. Residents are allocated dedicated research time throughout their training. They collaborate with clinical and basic science faculty, gaining valuable experience in various research methodologies. A dedicated research statistician and coordinator support the residents, who are encouraged to present their findings at both regional and national conferences.

Training Sites

Training sites include:

• SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
• SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital
• SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital
• SSM Health St. Clare Hospital

These facilities provide a wide-ranging exposure to diverse patient populations and complex cases, which are essential for comprehensive orthopaedic training.

Resident Life

The vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, enhances the residency experience, providing access to numerous cultural and recreational activities. With nearly three million residents, St. Louis is known for its affordability and accessibility. Residents often find a strong sense of community, engaging in social events, family-friendly activities, and networking opportunities.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process requires candidates to apply via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Essential components include:

• Three letters of recommendation
• Medical school transcripts
• USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores
• Personal statement
• Medical School Performance Evaluation

In terms of competitiveness, the residency program is both DO and IMG friendly. The program reviews applications thoroughly and conducts in-person interviews, emphasizing a holistic evaluation of prospective candidates.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support and is equipped to sponsor appropriate visa types for qualified international medical graduates.

Unique Program Features

Notably, residents benefit from increased autonomy as they progress through the training years. The program culminates in a chief resident year (PGY-5), where residents take on significant leadership roles, further enhancing their surgical and decision-making skills.

Fellowship Placement

Recent graduates of the program have successfully matched into prestigious fellowships across multiple specialties. Graduates frequently note the high volume of surgical cases and exposure to diverse pathologies as critical elements that enhance their preparedness for fellowship and subsequent independent practice.

Conclusion

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency program at Saint Louis University stands out for its robust curriculum, research opportunities, and supportive learning environment, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a career in orthopaedic surgery.