Becoming an Orthopedic surgeon

Becoming an orthopedic surgeon is one of the most difficult and long processes and yet it is said to be one of the most fulfilling. The study program takes at least fourteen years from the day you start college, which may seem like an eternity to anyone who is considering the profession. However, the years are guaranteed to fly by as a medical student and orthopedic resident as they are years of personal growth and unforgettable experiences that will keep you on your toes all of the time.

The reason orthopedic surgeons have such a long training period is due to the specific skills that are required for the job. Most of these skills are acquired along the way as they are practiced day-in and day-out. These skills vary from surgeon to surgeon but the best orthopedic surgeons have good mechanical ability, excellent three dimensional visualization and a high degree of manual dexterity.

Orthopedics is an extremely competitive field. 170 accredited programs in the US prepare students for just 650 residency positions and the training requires four years of college, four years of medical school and five years in an accredited orthopedic residency program. Once the residency program has been completed candidates must practice as orthopedic surgeons for two years. It is after these two years that the candidates must sit for written and oral examinations by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. It is only after all this that the candidate will become a general orthopedic surgeon.