University of Pennsylvania Health System Program

The Adult Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania is an ACGME-accredited program designed for orthopedic surgeons seeking specialized training in adult hip and knee reconstruction. The fellowship consists of three positions per year, beginning on August 1st and concluding on July 31st the following year. The curriculum is intensive, structured around 4-month rotations at various training sites, including Pennsylvania Hospital, Penn Presbyterian Hospital, and Virtua Reconstructive Orthopedics.

The fellowship focuses on comprehensive exposure to all aspects of adult hip and knee reconstruction, including clinical care in both primary and revision arthroplasty, complex primary cases, and hip preservation techniques. The surgical approaches covered include manual and robotic techniques for Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) and Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (UKA), and various reconstructive procedures related to hip and knee pathologies. The integration of robotic-assisted surgery in outpatient settings is a significant feature of the fellowship, particularly during the partnership with Virtua and Reconstructive Orthopedics.

Fellows are expected to actively participate in clinical responsibilities alongside the orthopedic surgery residency program, which has 42 residents. Each fellow will be involved in clinical care within the Hip and Knee Clinic after acquiring sufficient experience and may engage in teaching opportunities throughout the fellowship. Comprehensive hands-on surgical training is complemented by a robust schedule of teaching conferences and research seminars. Notably, each fellow is anticipated to engage in at least one clinical or laboratory research project related to adult reconstruction.

Research and Academic Opportunities

The fellowship provides an opportunity for involvement in various research initiatives, allowing fellows to hone their academic skills while working on compelling projects designed to contribute to the field of adult reconstruction. A dedicated laboratory facility is available for fellows interested in pursuing research endeavors throughout the year. Fellowship candidates can also participate in educational courses focused on enhancing operative skills and knowledge.

Licensure and Application Requirements

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must have completed an orthopedic surgery residency accredited by ACGME, RCPSC, or CFPC programs in Canada. Successful completion of the USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 is a prerequisite, along with obtaining the necessary licensure in the state of Pennsylvania. For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), ECFMG certification is required, and candidates must have completed USMLE Step 3 for their application to be considered complete.

Application Process

Applications for the Adult Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship must be submitted through the SF Match system, with materials due by November 1st. It is essential to ensure that applications are complete, as incomplete submissions or those received after the deadline will not be reviewed.

Visa Support

The program is friendly towards international applicants and is capable of sponsoring appropriate visa types, including J-1 visas. This facilitates opportunities for qualified candidates who meet all criteria, including ECFMG standards.

Competitiveness and Special Features

This fellowship program is highly competitive, making it ideal for board-eligible orthopedic surgeons who are keen on advancing their skills in adult reconstructive surgery. The program's collaborative nature with multiple high-volume training sites ensures that fellows experience a diverse range of surgical techniques and patient demographics, providing an unparalleled training environment in the field of orthopedic surgery.