UPMC Medical Education Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at UPMC in Central Pennsylvania is a well-structured five-year program committed to providing exceptional surgical training in orthopaedic surgery. With continued accreditation by the ACGME and AOA, this residency aims to prepare its 25 residents to become outstanding orthopaedic surgeons through a combination of academic education and hands-on clinical training 1.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum comprises a rigorous training regimen that covers various general orthopaedic disciplines, alongside specialty areas including Sports Medicine, Hand and Upper Extremity, Foot and Ankle, Orthopaedic Spine, Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement, Orthopaedic Trauma, Pediatric Orthopaedics, and Orthopaedic Oncology 1. A dedicated outpatient orthopaedic clinic allows residents to gain practical experience under the supervision of attending orthopaedic surgeons.

Clinical Rotations

During the clinical years, residents rotate through a variety of services at different training sites, primarily hitting UPMC Presbyterian for initial training. The first year focuses on general orthopaedics, trauma services, and spends significant time in pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Subsequent years include rotations in adult reconstruction, hand surgery, and community orthopaedic services across affiliated hospitals 7.

Training Sites

UPMC in Central Pa. features several training environments, including UPMC Harrisburg, UPMC Community Osteopathic, UPMC West Shore, and Affiliations with major tertiary care facilities like the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh 1. This access allows residents to engage in diverse patient care opportunities while enhancing their skills in a supportive learning environment.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research with all residents expected to undertake at least one publishable research project during their training. There are ample opportunities for residents to engage with cutting-edge orthopaedic research, particularly during the second year, which focuses on lab experience 7.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program, applicants must submit through ERAS. The complete application should include a personal statement, USMLE Step 1 scores (with Step 2 recommended), three letters of recommendation, a medical school transcript, and the MSPE 8. There are no strict grading cutoffs; however, applicants are encouraged to complete an orthopaedic rotation at UPMC in Central Pa. to enhance their application 8.

Visa Support

The program sponsors the J-1 visa for international medical graduates who meet eligibility requirements, as it aims to create a diverse learning environment that welcomes both DO and IMG candidates 8.

Competitiveness and Demographics

The program is competitive; it offers eight PGY-1 positions each year divided between categorical and research tracks. It is noted to be friendly towards both DO candidates and international medical graduates, provided they meet the necessary criteria 9. There are no maximum failed Step exam constraints noted within the application process, making it accessible for a wider range of applicants.

Unique Aspects of the Program

UPMC's Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program prides itself on a rich educational environment enhanced by diverse training locations and access to expert faculty from various subspecialties. Fellows in the program are actively involved in resident education, which fosters a comprehensive learning experience 1. Additionally, the robust community involvement ensures residents gain practical experience while contributing meaningfully to patient care.

Living and Working in Central Pennsylvania

Residents have the opportunity to engage with a vibrant community and a balanced lifestyle in Central Pennsylvania. The program also highlights the importance of mentorship, with established pathways for residents to develop both clinically and personally throughout the course of their training 1.