SUNY Upstate Medical University Program

Overview of the Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at SUNY UpstateMedical University, located in Syracuse, New York, is designed tocultivate the next generation of competent and compassionateorthopedic surgeons. The program accepts five residents annuallyfor a comprehensive five-year training focused on patient care,education, and research in the field of orthopedic surgery. Theprogram leverages the resources of the only academic hospital-basedfacility in Central New York, serving a diverse range of orthopedicconditions and injuries across a five-county region.

Early engagement in surgical environments is a critical aspectof this residency. Interns initially participate in a high-volumehand service and trauma service, spending significant time inoperating rooms with attending surgeons. Throughout the residency,there is an emphasis on developing surgical skills, with dedicatedconferences and a robust curriculum.

Curriculum Details

The residency curriculum is structured to develop surgicalcompetence through didactic and hands-on experiences. The firstyear comprises several off-service rotations coupled with sixmonths dedicated to orthopedic surgery. Each subsequent yearfocuses more intensely on orthopedic subspecialties, each organizedto provide increasing levels of responsibility.

The surgical curriculum begins with essential surgical skillsbefore progressing into complex procedures involving variousspecialties. Residents engage in rotations that include hand andupper extremity surgery, sports medicine, spine surgery, orthopediconcology, arthroplasty, pediatric orthopedics, trauma, and more.This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding oforthopedic surgery as well as tailored exposure to various settingsincluding University Hospital, a Level 1 trauma center.

Training Sites

Residents in the program train at multiple hospitals and clinicswithin Syracuse, thus enriching their clinical experience. Theprimary training location includes:

• SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital Downtown Campus (Level1 Trauma Center)
• Crouse Hospital
• Veterans Affairs Medical Center
• Golisano Children’s Hospital
• Upstate Bone and Joint Center

These varied settings allow residents to gain a well-roundedclinical experience across subspecialties within orthopedicsurgery.

Research Opportunities

Significant emphasis is placed on research throughout theresidency. The program boasts a productive research environmentwith substantial support from the NIH. Residents can participate invarious clinical and basic science research projects, therebyenhancing their understanding and expertise within orthopedicmedicine.

Access to researchers and resources allows residents tocontribute to innovative projects that can shape the future oforthopedics.

Conferences and Education

Education at Upstate Orthopaedics is not limited to clinicalrotations. Residents gain educational support through activeparticipation in numerous conferences held five days a week. Theseinclude grand rounds, morbidity and mortality conferences, journalclubs, and skill-enhancement workshops. The faculty’s commitment toresident education reflects in the surgical proficiency andclinical decision-making skills developed over the course of theprogram.

Every Wednesday, residents engage in grand rounds ormorbidity/mortality discussions, addressing the complexities andlatest advancements within orthopedics.

Stipend and Benefits

The residency provides stipends that increase annually from thefirst to the fifth year post-MD. For example, the first-yearstipend is approximately $64,869, extending to $78,610 in the fifthyear. Health coverage and institutional medical malpracticeinsurance are also provided, ensuring residents' well-being duringtheir training.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is highly competitive, focusing on selectingapplicants who demonstrate academic excellence, clinical acumen,and a commitment to orthopedic surgery. Special applicationrequirements may include educational background, year ofgraduation, and performance on evaluations like USMLE or COMLEXexams.

The residency program is recognized for being friendly to DOstudents and international medical graduates, enhancing diversitywithin the cohort.

Visa Support

The residency program provides visa support options forcandidates who require sponsorship. Generally, the program is ableto support J-1 or H-1B visas for international medical graduateswho fulfill the eligibility criteria.

Living in Syracuse

Syracuse offers a supportive environment for residents with anaffordable cost of living, coupled with accessibility to variousamenities. The downtown area features numerous restaurants, parks,and cultural activities. Residents find ample housing optionswithin proximity to clinical sites, fostering a sense of communityamong peers.

Additional Information

The SUNY Upstate Medical University Orthopaedic SurgeryResidency is recognized for its strong commitment to preparingwell-rounded orthopedic surgeons for diverse career paths, whetherthat be entering fellowships or general practice.