Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

Trauma

The main goals of the trauma fellowship are to provide comprehensive trauma care for multiply-injured patients and to maintain a high quality clinical training program for medical students, residents, and fellows. The program promotes participation in designing clinical and basic science research during the fellowship period.

One of the primary interests of the trauma center is the maintenance of trauma care standards in the management of long bone fractures, as well as specialized care for patients with complex pelvic and acetabular fractures. Presently, a high volume of these types of fractures is referred to the medical center for evaluation and treatment. The fellow will learn how to manage the care of these patients, as well as multiply injured patients, patients with complex foot and ankle injuries, and patients with nonunions or malunions of the upper or lower extremity. The reconstruction of the acetabulum, including total joint arthroplasty, is also frequently encountered during the fellowship.

Areas of Education* 

  • the timing of secondary procedures
  • indications for external fixation in multiple trauma situations 
  • treatment protocol for severe soft tissue injuries including compartment syndrome
  • follow-up care and the importance of physical and occupational therapy
  • the psychological impact of musculoskeletal trauma on patients and their families.

*List is not all-inclusive

In sum, the fellowship strives to balance acute care management with elective reconstructive procedures.