This introductory course is designed for third year students who have an interest in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Orthopaedics involves the care of the patient with musculoskeletal disorders, including traumatic injuries, degenerative and metabolic diseases, tumors, childhood abnormalities, and pain syndromes. Trauma is seen at both hospitals with a wide spectrum of degree from the simple sprains to multiple injured polytraumas. The student participates in emergency, outpatient, surgical, and post-surgical care. Regular conferences and teaching sessions are scheduled.

Students spend four weeks rotating on orthopaedic services (Hand, Sports Medicine/Shoulder, Foot and Ankle, Spine, Pediatrics, Trauma, Adult Reconstruction, and Hines VA) where they will learn general orthopaedic principles as well as more specialized orthopaedic conditions.