Tulane University Program

The Tulane University Orthopaedic Surgery Residency is a 5-year ACGME-accredited program located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Currently, the program accommodates 20 residents, with the recent approval to increase to four residents per class moving forward. The program aims to provide a strong foundation ensuring residents develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and behavior to succeed in their future practices.

In line with the mission of the residency, the focus is not solely on preparing residents to pass the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) exam but also to foster a passion for expert orthopaedic patient care and ongoing education beyond residency. Faculty members are dedicated to providing mentorship in both professional and personal aspects within various settings, such as the operating room, clinical environments, and academic office.

Comprehensive opportunities for research are available, with hands-on experiences in simulations and cadaver labs. Ongoing projects encourage residents to contribute to innovative studies and publications across various orthopaedic subspecialties. The program values continuous feedback from both residents and faculty to enhance the rotation schedule and improve the educational environment provided.

Training Sites

Residents will experience diverse training locations which include:

• Tulane University Medical Center: The primary site providing elective and trauma care along with spine surgery.
• University Medical Center: The only Level 1 trauma center in the Greater New Orleans metro area.
• Tulane Lakeside Hospital: Focused on sports medicine, joint replacement, and hand surgery.
• Veterans Affairs Facility: Dedicated to caring for veterans of the armed services.
• Children’s Hospital of New Orleans: The largest pediatric hospital in Louisiana.
• Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine: Offers care for professional, collegiate, and amateur athletes.

Curriculum

The curriculum encompasses a structured rotation schedule designed to offer residents comprehensive exposure to various subspecialties of orthopaedics. Weekly didactic sessions, including Grand Rounds and journals, enhance the overall educational framework. Opportunities for independent simulator lab use and monthly analyses deepen residents' clinical decision-making proficiency.

Application Process

Applications for the residency are accepted only through the Electronic Resident Application Service (ERAS). The program offers four PGY-1 positions annually, filling them via the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Key application components include USMLE Step I and II scores, medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Notably, applicants are required to have completed their medical education not more than five years before applying.

Special Selection Criteria

Given the competitive nature of orthopaedic surgery, Tulane focuses on a holistic review process, assessing academic performance, clinical experience, and personal traits. Preference is given to applicants demonstrating a commitment to research, leadership roles, and a genuine interest in the Tulane Orthopaedics program. Importantly, the program is committed to diversity and actively seeks candidates from a wide range of backgrounds.

Visa Support

The program supports residency candidates who require visa sponsorship. The primary visa type supported is the J-1 visa, often preferred for graduates from international medical schools, facilitating their training within the United States.

Benefits

Residents at Tulane are afforded several benefits including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options, with health coverage provided at no cost.
• Life and disability insurance are also offered at no additional cost.
• Education leave, allowing for attendance at academic meetings.
• Paid vacation and designated study time.
• Free parking and pagers for program-related activities.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Tulane Orthopaedics Department is dedicated to enhancing diversity and creating an inclusive environment. Significant efforts are made towards recruitment, support, and retention of faculty and residents from underrepresented communities. The program nurtures diverse voices to improve patient care and healthcare outcomes.