General Surgery

[psi1467]

Hypothetically, let's say that I did a general surgery residency. And after the five years I decided I was really interested in Orthopedics. In order to continue on with Orthopedics would I have to start from the beginning again (even with 5 years surgical training)? Or could I somehow treat it similar to a fellowship and spend ~3 years at a program? Thanks in advance.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Winged Scapula]

Depends on the program. However, since the vast majority of rotations after PGY1 are centered around Ortho as opposed to the General Surgery specialties, I think it more likely that you *might* be given credit for PGY1 but would have to essentially repeat most of an Ortho residency if you choose to switch.

Hope this helps.

 

[edmadison]

I have no official verification for this, but I was told that starting in 2003 the AAOS will require all those seeking board certification to do a catagorical ortho surgery internship. If this is true, all of the programs will shift their requirements because they will want to ensure board eligability for all residents