The Orthopedic Surgery clerkship at Morristown Medical Center allows 4th year medical students to perform on one of the busiest orthopedic oncology services in the nation, treating over 350 pediatric and adult patients per year. Students will gain experience evaluating patients in the office and performing rounds on the hospital floor, helping care for postoperative patients. Students will be directly supervised by the surgical attending physician, fellow, and residents assigned to the service and interact with consultants and primary surgical attending physicians. Students will also receive didactic teaching centered around a monthly conference with varied topics: Surgical Grand Rounds; Surgical Morbidity and Mortality; Orthopedic Surgery; and Orthopedic Oncology and Sarcoma Surgery.
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Orthopedic Surgery Sub-Internship
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Director Matthew Bauer, MD Location
Duration
4 weeks
Offered
- May – January
- 4 student per rotation
Prerequisites
Successful completion of all third-year clerkships, specifically medicine and general surgery
Description:
Join us for an elective (sub-internship) at Morristown Medical Center Department of Orthopedic Surgery. We perform close to 15,000 operations each year at our main hospital and ambulatory surgery center. You will spend time with trauma, oncology, pediatrics, and sports medicine. The division of your time will be based on interest, clinical volume, and coverage. You will have exposure to the operating room, clinics, orthopedic floors, and the emergency room.
Learning Experience:
Students will:- Have the opportunity to take call with the residents to gain more experience and an in-depth look at the orthopedic residency program
- Attend all didactic conferences and will showcase their knowledge with a 10-minute presentation at the end of the rotation
Goals & Objectives:
This elective rotation is an opportunity to mirror the experience of an orthopedic surgery intern at our residency program. This is done in the following ways:Enhance Clinical Knowledge:- Strengthen understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics, and pathophysiology of common orthopedic conditions.
- Review and deepen knowledge of clinical assessment and diagnosis of orthopedic problems, including history-taking, physical examination, and interpretation of diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRIs, CT scans).
Develop Surgical Skills:- Gain hands-on experience in assisting with orthopedic procedures, such as fractures, tumor resections, reconstructions, and arthroscopic surgeries.
- Learn to observe and assist with common orthopedic surgical techniques, including wound closure, suturing, fracture reduction and joint manipulation.
Refine Patient Care Abilities:- Improve the ability to conduct thorough patient evaluations, including preoperative assessments and postoperative management.
- Gain experience with patient counseling regarding surgical risks, benefits, and recovery expectations.
- Master the process of developing and implementing a management plan for a variety of orthopedic conditions.
Cultivate Teamwork and Communication:- Collaborate with orthopedic residents, fellows, attending physicians, and other healthcare providers in a multidisciplinary team setting. This is perhaps the most important aspect of the rotation. The acting intern should be able to assimilate seamlessly into the care team.
- Develop clear communication skills with patients and families, particularly in discussing diagnoses, treatment options, and recovery timelines.
- Participate in case presentations and contribute to interdisciplinary rounds, effectively presenting patient information and treatment plans.
Foster Professionalism and Ethical Practice:- Understand and demonstrate professionalism, including ethical decision-making, integrity, and respect for patients and colleagues.
- Recognize the importance of confidentiality, informed consent, and the patient-centered approach in orthopedic care.
Feedback & Evaluation:
The attending surgeon(s), fellow and resident on the service and the course directors will evaluate students.