PGY Curriculum and Rotations

The residents are considered competent and independent in the practice of orthopedic surgery at the completion of their training in the following rotations:  

Post-graduate year (PGY) I

The residents are part of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery from the time of the match. The first year is a rotating surgical internship with rotations including musculoskeletal radiology, physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), rheumatology, general surgery, and six months of orthopedics. First year rotations provide a broad exposure to those surgical and medicine-based subspecialties which are integral to orthopedic surgery training.

PGY II

During the second year, focus is placed on developing basic operative and diagnostic skills, heavily weighted toward exposure in traumatic and adult orthopedics. 

PGY III

Emphasis is placed on further refining surgical skills with specific focus in management of the upper and lower extremities, spine, and sports medicine. An elective rotation and research rotation also occur in the third year. 

PGY IV

This year is considered a senior year due to its exposure in specialized areas of orthopedic surgery, including pediatric orthopedics, trauma, and spine surgery. 

PGY V

With an emphasis on leadership, this year is considered the chief resident year. The resident assumes greater responsibility in the organization of services, teaching, and education in advanced surgical techniques. The year is heavily weighted towards trauma, sports and adult reconstruction. 

Curriculum

A didactic core curriculum is offered on a two-year rotating cycle, and presented by the faculty or invited lecturers. The curriculum covers the basic science fundamentals of orthopedics, dissection and anatomy, and surgical technique. Grand Rounds are offered monthly, featuring a nationally recognized expert in the field of orthopedic surgery.