University of Kansas School of Medicine Program

The University of Kansas School of Medicine offers a comprehensive five-year Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program designed to train competent, ethical, and well-rounded orthopedic surgeons. The primary clinical partner for this program is The University of Kansas Health System, which comprises three facilities catering to various orthopedic needs, ensuring that residents encounter a mix of simple and complex cases throughout their training.

The residency program is structured to foster increasing responsibility among residents, preparing them for both fellowship training and independent practice. It incorporates a rigorous curriculum along with innovative clinical experiences.

Program Structure

The residency is structured as follows:

PGY-1 Year

The first year covers a broad range of medical and surgical issues facing orthopedic surgeons. Residents rotate through general surgery, vascular surgery, anesthesiology, trauma, musculoskeletal radiology, and orthopedic surgery. This year emphasizes the overall management of patients, especially polytrauma cases, basic surgical techniques, and assisting with major operations.

PGY-2 and PGY-3 Years

During the second and third years, residents engage in more specialized rotations, including trauma and sports medicine service. Clinical responsibilities increase, allowing residents to participate significantly in outpatient clinics, emergency room treatments, surgeries, and care of trauma patients. A research rotation is also included, where developing research skills and completing assigned projects are emphasized.

PGY-4 and PGY-5 Years

The final two years focus on mastery of orthopedic surgery, including advanced surgical techniques and leadership responsibilities within the clinical environment. Senior residents gain substantial authority and prepare for independent practice, culminating in participation in the orthopedic evaluation clinic.

Curriculum and Conference Structure

The program incorporates an intensive educational curriculum that includes weekly conferences and didactic sessions. Core conferences occur every Wednesday, with supplemental anatomy sessions, journal clubs, and specialty-focused discussions facilitated by faculty and resident scholars for knowledge enhancement 1.

Pediatric orthopedic care is extensively covered through rotations at Children’s Mercy Hospital, contributing to a rounded experience for residents aspiring to work with diverse patient demographics. The curriculum is regularly assessed and updated according to advancements in the field and feedback from residents.

Research Opportunities

Research training is an integral part of the residency, especially emphasized during the dedicated three-month research rotation in the PGY-3 year. Residents are encouraged to participate in original research and are expected to publish at least one manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal. Availability of both the Orthopedic Research and Education Center and the Harrington Laboratory for Molecular Orthopedics allows residents to engage in a variety of research projects 1.

Training Sites

Residents train at several key locations, including:

• The University of Kansas Health System: Serves as the main teaching hospital, concentrating on adaptive clinical learning and exposure to a wide range of orthopedic cases.
• Children’s Mercy Hospital: Offers a comprehensive pediatric orthopedic experience.
• Kansas City VA Medical Center: Provides exposure to adult reconstructive services.

Application Process

The admissions process is competitive, with approximately 800 applications received annually, and four new residents are selected each year. Candidates are expected to have graduated from LCME-accredited medical schools and be eligible for medical licenses in Kansas and Missouri 1. Applicants participate in interviews designed to evaluate their preparedness, aptitude, and interpersonal skills.

Visa Support

The residency program offers visa sponsorship options for applicants requiring immigration assistance, specifically catering to foreign medical graduates. The program is considered friendly towards DOs and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) 1.

Competitive Nature

Overall, the program is recognized as highly competitive, emphasizing the breadth of training and opportunities for academic development. Applicants are encouraged to highlight any unique experiences or skills that may enhance their standing in the selection process. Specific eligibility criteria, such as a maximum limit on failed STEP exams, may apply as prescribed by the program's policies 1.

Living in Kansas City

Residents enjoy living in Kansas City, renowned for its low cost of living and vibrant cultural scene. The city offers numerous recreational, dining, and entertainment options, making it an attractive place for residents to live and work 1.

Benefits

Residents receive a competitive stipend along with comprehensive health benefits, vacation days, educational allowances, and the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities. These benefits contribute to a balanced lifestyle, essential for sustaining the demanding nature of residency training 1.