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Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are you looking for in a resident?

We are looking for well-rounded individuals who have solid academic credentials, a good work ethic and who are nice people who can get along well with others on a team. Visiting our program on a 2 week or 4 week clinical rotation is not mandatory, but does help us get to know you and you get to know us.



  • How many residents do you take each year?

We take 7 residents at the PGY-1 level.



  • What are the strengths of your program?

Our program provides a very well-rounded experience in all areas of orthopedics that gives each resident a good foundation for caring for most orthopedic problems.  We have an excellent full-time, part-time, and clinical faculty representing all sub-specialty areas in orthopedics.  In addition, we have very solid facilities for all our rotations both here on the OU Medical Center Campus and at our surrounding private practice community medical center partners.



  • What are the weaknesses of your program?

We do not have any major weaknesses.  We perform excellent clinical research, but currently have only limited bench research within our department.  There are extensive opportunities for collaborative research with other departments here on the OU Oklahoma City Campus, the OU Norman Campus (Biomechanics Lab in Department of Engineering), or with the School of Veterinary Medicine at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma.



  • Are residents expected to do research?

Residents have required research projects to complete during their 5 year residency that encompasses all of the basic types of clinical research.  Projects usually include a case report or literature review, a quality improvement project, and a prospective clinical trial.  A dedicated 2 month research rotation during the PGY-3 year helps facilitate the implementation and completion of the research project requirements.  The department provides full support for these projects including the assistance of our research staff on campus as well as coordination with other departments on the Oklahoma City or Norman campuses.  All residents present their research projects annually at our Visiting Professorship Conference in June.  Manuscripts may also be presented at other local and national meetings with department funding provided.



  • Do you have any fellowships?

There are no fellowships within the orthopaedic department.  However, there are hand surgery fellows sponsored by nearby Baptist Medical Center that rotate through our program.  In addition, on-campus Rheumatology and Primary Care Sports Medicine fellows also rotate through our various adult clinics.



  • Do you expect any changes in your faculty?

We have a very stable and solid faculty and we continue to grow.