Clerkships

The Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine offers the following clerkships for interested medical students.

Call Expectations for Clerkships in Seattle: All medical students applying into Orthopaedic Surgery are expected to take overnight and weekend call.  Students not applying into Orthopaedics who rotate between the months of May and October will also be scheduled to take weekend and overnight call. 

Please contact our Medical Education Program Manager, Plinette Sanchez at orthomsp@uw.edu or 206/744-4927 with any questions.

  • Adult Reconstruction (ORTHP 685)
    Course Number: ORTHP 685
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: Northwest Hospital
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Goals:

    • Physical Examination of the Hip:
      • understand and be able to perform a complete physical examination of the hip
      • be familiar with special diagnostic tests for the hip
    • Physical Examiniation of the Knee:
      • understand and be able to perform a complete physical examination of the knee in older adults
      • be familar with special diagnostic tests for the knee in older adults
    • Arthritis of the Hip and Knee:
      • understand the basics of hip and knee arthritis
      • understand the basic of non-surgical treatment of hip and knee arthritis
      • be familiar with the role of surgery for patients with hip and knee arthritis
      • be familiar with the contraindications for hip and knee replacement

    Objectives:

    • Identify, based on radiographic and clinical data the presence of osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis and other common degenerative conditions affecting the hip and knee.
    • Understand the general indications and contraindications for reconstructive (joint replacement) surgery on the adult hip and knee. 
    • The student should be able to demonstrate the ability to perform a focused history and physical examination on the adult hip and knee. The student should also be able to identify the common “red flag” signs that would contraindicate elective surgery on those joints.
    • The student will be able to identify conditions that warrant referral to the hip and knee service and also be able to formulate a plan for initial non-operative management of adults with degenerative conditions of those joints who present for evaluation.
    • Suggest appropriate diagnostic tests based on a differential diagnosis established after a history and physical examination. 
    • Suggest an appropriate course of non-surgical treatment for a patient presenting hip or knee arthritis.
    • Identify patients for whom surgery would not be appropriate.
    • In the operating room and/or clinic, students will be able to demonstrate and sharpen skills in basic surgical techniques such as knot-tying and suturing.
    • Students should be able to list the use of appropriate imaging studies for the common conditions affecting the adult hip and knee. 

    Faculty

    Fernando Navin, M.D.

    Navin D. Fernando, M.D., FRCSC

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties: Arthritis
    Hip and Knee

    Howard Chansky, M.D.

    Professor and Chair
    Specialties: Arthritis
    Hip and Knee
    Oncology
    David W. Fitz, M.D.

    David W. Fitz, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties: Hip and Knee
    William D. Lack, MD

    William D. Lack, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Hip and Knee
    Seth S. Leopold, M.D.

    Seth S. Leopold, M.D.

    Professor
    Editor-in-Chief, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
    Specialties:
    Arthritis
    Hip and Knee

    Rotation Locations

    Hip & Knee Center at Northwest Primary and Specialty Care
    11011 Meridian Ave N., Seattle, WA 98133

    Medical Specialties
    • Hip & Knee Center
    • Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery
  • Disorders of the Spine (ORTHP 684)
    Course Number: ORTHP 684
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: Harborview Medical Center
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Goals and Objectives:

    • Initial evaluation of the spine:
      • understand and be able to perform a complete physical examination of the spine
      • special diagnostic tests for the spine
    • Disorders of the spine:
      • understand the differences between surgical and nonsurgical spine disorders
      • understand what disorders constitute a surgical emergency
      • understand the complete spectrum of nonsurgical management of spine disorder
      • understand surgical indications
      • understand the relative contraindications for spine surgery
      • understand the risks of spine surgery
      • understand the postoperative care and rehabilitation of spine surgery patients

    At the end of the clerkship, the student should be able to:

    • Perform a thorough history and physical examination of a patient presenting with a spine abnormality.
    • Understand the appropriate diagnostic tests based on a differential diagnosis established after a history and physical examination.
    • Have a basic understanding of the type of surgery necessary for differing types of spine disorders.
    • Understand what types of problems are appropriate for primary care management and what spine problems require referral to a spine surgeon.

    Faculty

    Carlo Bellabarba, M.D.

    Carlo Bellabarba, M.D.

    Professor
    Chief of Service, Orthopaedics, Harborview Medical Center
    Director, Spine Service
    Joint Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery

    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Spine
    Richard J. Bransford, M.D.

    Richard J. Bransford, M.D.

    Professor
    Director, UW Orthopaedics Spine Fellowship Program
    Director of Orthopaedics Spine Quality Improvement

    Specialties:
    Spine
    Haitao Zhou, M.D.

    Haitao Zhou, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Spine
    David Gendelberg, M.D.

    David Gendelberg, M.D.

    Clinical Instructor
    Specialties:
    Spine
    Viral R. Patel, M.D.

    Viral R. Patel, M.D.

    Acting Instructor
    Specialties:
    Spine
    Theodore A. Wagner, M.D.

    Theodore A. Wagner, M.D.

    Clinical Professor Emeritus
    Specialties:
    Spine

    Rotation Locations

    Spine Center at Harborview
    Ninth & Jefferson Building, 908 Jefferson St., Seattle, WA 98104
  • General Orthopaedic Clerkship (ORTHP 680)
    Course Number: ORTHP 644 - Jackson, WY
    ORTHP 650 - Billings, MT
    ORTHP 662 - Casper, WY
    ORTHP 669 - Spokane, WA
    ORTHP 680 - Seattle, WA
    Credits: 8 (Spokane 4/8)
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time (Spokane 2- or 4-weeks full-time)
    Grading Notes: 4 weeks is High Pass/Honors eligible; 2 weeks is Pass/Fail only
    EValue Status: ORTHP 644, 650, 680: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    ORTHP 643, 662, 669: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of third year required Surgery clerkship
    Compliance Notes:

    Varies based on site; contact clerkship coordinator
    Standard 6 panel drug test through UWSOM is required for Cody, WY, Billings, MT and Casper, WY sites. Student will be contacted by site coordinator. 
    VA: Requires extensive credentialing paperwork submitted at least 8 weeks prior to start date

    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Billings, MT: Ortho Montana
    Casper, WY: Advantage Orthopedics & Neurosurgery, Wyoming Medical Center
    Cody, WY: Big Horn Basin Bone & Joint
    Jackson, WY: Teton Orthopedics
    Seattle, WA: VA Puget Sounds Health Care System
    Spokane, WA: Orthopedic Specialty Clinic of Spokane
    Permission Required: No: ORTHP 650, 680
    Yes: ORTHP 643, 644, 662, 669
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Objectives:

    • Medical care of the orthopedic patient:
      • obtain necessary but not excessive preoperative studies according to published guideline
      • obtain appropriate consultations
      • triage patients who should be admitted to a medical service or intensive care unit
      • perioperative care and discharge of orthopedic patients.
    • Evaluation of patients in the emergency department
    • Outpatient orthopedics:
      • basic exam for each joint and spine
      • indications for appropriate radiographic and laboratory studies
      • appropriate period of follow-up, when to discharge patient from care
      • low back pain
        • when to work-up
        • imaging – what studies and when to get them
        • nonoperative treatment
      • osteoarthritis – primary and secondary, shoulder, knee, and hip
        • risk factors, history and physical
        • nonoperative management – literature
      • Manual and other basic skills:
        • suturing
        • dressings/casts
        • patient positioning, prepping and draping

    Faculty

    Nicholas Iannuzzi, M.D.

    Nicholas Iannuzzi, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Chief, Orthopaedic Surgery, Puget Sound VA

    Specialties:
    Hand and Upper Extremity
    William D. Lack, MD

    William D. Lack, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Hip and Knee
    Bruce J. Sangeorzan, M.D.

    Bruce J. Sangeorzan, M.D.

    Professor
    Director, RR&D Center for Excellence in Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering, Veterans Affairs

    Specialties: Foot and Ankle

    Howard Chansky, M.D.

    Professor and Chair
    Specialties: Arthritis
    Hip and Knee
    Oncology
    Albert O. Gee, M.D.

    Albert O. Gee, MD

    Associate Professor
    Chief, Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center
    Team Physician, Husky Athletics

    Specialties: Hip and Knee
    Shoulder and Elbow
    Sports Medicine

    Rotation Locations

    VA Puget Sound Health Care System
    1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108

  • Musculoskeletal Oncology (ORTHP 678)
    Course Number: ORTHP 678
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: UW Medical Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance/Seattle Children's Hospital
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    The oncology rotation for medical students provides a basic understanding of the incidence of sarcomas and metastatic adenocarcinomas in adults and children. The general principles of oncology staging will be taught in addition to the fundamentals for imaging for staging and treatment parameters.

    Goals and Objectives:
    Students are expected to learn the influence of both primary sarcomas of bone and soft tissue in addition to the incidence of Metastatic disease involving the skeleton in adults and children. The requirements for diagnosis of each sarcoma subtype and the principles for staging and evaluation are all expected goals. Parameters and complications of treatment will also be reviewed and discussed with the students.

    Faculty

    Howard Chansky, M.D.

    Professor and Chair
    Specialties: Arthritis
    Hip and Knee
    Oncology
    Jared L. Harwood, M.D., M.B.A.

    Jared L. Harwood, M.D., M.B.A.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Oncology
    Antoinette W. Lindberg, M.D.

    Antoinette W. Lindberg, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Oncology
    Pediatrics
    Matthew Thompson, M.D.

    Matthew Thompson, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Oncology

    Rotation Locations

    UW Medical Center

    Seattle Cancer Care Alliance

    Seattle Children's Hospital

  • Musculoskeletal Trauma (ORTHP 677)
    Course Number: ORTHP 677
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of third year required Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: Harborview Medical Center
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    General Orthoaedics, weighted toward musculoskeletal trauma.

    Goals and Objectives:

    • Musculoskeletal knowledge base including:
      • the approach to diagnosis of musculoskeletal injuries
      • the treatment of simple musculoskeletal injuries
      • understanding the difference between isolated injuries and polytrauma
      • the biomechanics of tissue failure
      • basic principles of tissue healing
    • Musculoskeletal traumatic conditions including:
      • fractures
      • dislocations
      • soft tissue injuries such as sprains and ligament disruptions
      • conditions that affect mobility such as femoral neck fracture or spinal cord injury
    • During the 4 week clerkship, students should be able to identify and describe the most common surgical problems unique to orthopaedic trauma. These include fractures and dislocations of the upper and lower limbs, soft tissue injuries to the upper and lower limbs.
    • Understand the impact of trauma on physical and social function and the impact on family and society.
    • The student should be able to demonstrate the ability to perform a focused history and physical examination emphasizing neuro muscular function, sensation and motor control.
    • Diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal injuries.
    • In the operating room and/or clinic, students will be able to understand the anatomy, be able to interpret basic imaging studies of fractures and dislocations.

    Faculty

    David P. Barei, M.D.

    David P. Barei, M.D.

    Professor
    Program Director, Traumatology Fellowship

    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Daphne Beingessner, M.D.

    Daphne M. Beingessner, M.D.

    Professor
    Vice Chair for Quality Improvement

    Specialties: Fractures and Trauma
    Jonah Hebert-Davies, M.D., FRCSC

    Jonah Hebert-Davies, M.D., FRCSC

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Conor Kleweno, M.D.

    Conor P. Kleweno, M.D.

    Associate Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Sean E. Nork, M.D.

    Sean E. Nork, M.D.

    Professor
    Trauma Section Chief

    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Lisa A. Taitsman, M.D.

    Lisa A. Taitsman, M.D.

    Professor
    Orthopaedic Clinic Director
    Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Associate Program Director

    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Robert P. Dunbar, Jr., M.D.

    Robert P. Dunbar, Jr., M.D.

    Associate Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Reza Firoozabadi, M.D. MA

    Reza Firoozabadi, MD, MA

    Associate Professor
    Director of Orthopaedic Trauma Research

    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Michael Githens, M.D.

    Michael Githens, M.S, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma

    Rotation Locations

    Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Clinic at Harborview
    Main Hospital, West Clinic , 325 9th Ave., 1st Floor, Seattle, WA 98104

  • Outpatient Orthopaedics (ORTHP 682)
    Course Number: ORTHP 682 *not available for 2019-2020*
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: UW Roosevelt Clinic, Northwest Hospital
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Goals and Objectives:

    • Musculoskeletal knowledge base, including:
      • normal alignment and joint range of motion
      • basic biomechanics
      • basic bone pathophysiology
    • General musculoskeletal diseases, including:
      • bone and joint infections
      • hip conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis
      • spine conditions, such as spinal stenosis, disc disease, adult scoliosis, back pain
      • foot conditions, such as bunions, flatfoot or cavus deformities, tendonitis
      • hand conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
      • shoulder diseases, such as recurrent dislocations, osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder
      • sports injury in the athlete
      • tumors of bone and soft tissue
    • Musculoskeletal trauma, including:
      • fractures and dislocations as treated in the Emergency Department
      • injuries managed in the outpatient setting
      • casting and splinting

    What you will be able to do for musculoskeletal problems in adult outpatient setting, or what we expect at the end:

    • Make a correct diagnosis - know what you’re dealing with, and don’t miss anything important.
    • Perform an acceptable work-up – perform a basic but thorough evaluation, including physical examination, imaging studies, laboratories.
    • Provide the standard of care in the community – treat what you’re comfortable treating.
    • Seek an appropriate referral – ask for help when it is necessary and warranted.

    Faculty

    Kenneth Chin, M.D.

    Kenneth Chin, M.D.

    Clinical Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Foot and Ankle
    Sports Medicine
    Fernando Navin, M.D.

    Navin D. Fernando, M.D., FRCSC

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Arthritis
    Hip and Knee
    David W. Fitz, M.D.

    David W. Fitz, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties: Hip and Knee
    Stephen Kennedy, M.D.

    Stephen Kennedy, M.D.

    Associate Professor
    Specialties:
    Hand and Upper Extremity
    William D. Lack, MD

    William D. Lack, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Fractures and Trauma
    Hip and Knee

    Florence Unno, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties: Fractures and Trauma

    Rotation Locations

    Northwest Primary and Specialty Care
    11011 Meridian Ave N., Seattle, WA 98133

    Medical Specialties
    • Hip & Knee Center
    • Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery
  • Pediatric Orthopaedics (ORTHP 676)
    Course Number: ORTHP 668 - Spokane, WA
    ORTHP 676 - Seattle, WA
    Credits: 8 (Spokane: 4 or 8)
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time (Spokane 2- or 4-weeks full-time)
    Grading Notes: 4 weeks is High Pass/Honors eligible; 2 weeks is Pass/Fail only
    EValue Status: ORTHP 668: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue
    ORTHP 676: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Compliance Notes: Varies based on site; contact clerkship coordinator
    Standard 6 panel drug test through UWSOM is required for Spokane, WA site.
    Student will be contacted by site coordinator.
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: Seattle Children's Hospital
    Spokane, WA: Shriner's Hospital for Children
    Permission Required: No: Seattle
    Yes: Spokane
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Goals and Objectives

    During the 4 week clerkship, students should be able to identify and describe the most common topics:

    • Normal musculoskeletal variations of childhood, including:
      • developmental milestones
      • torsion, i.e. in-/out-toeing
      • flexible flatfoot
      • bow-legs and knock-knees
    • General musculoskeletal diseases of childhood, including:
      • bone and joint infections
      • hip diseases, such as developmental dysplasia, slipped capital femoral epiphysis
      • spine deformity, such as scoliosis, back pain
      • foot deformity, such as clubfoot
      • limb deficiency and limb length inequality
      • sports injury in the immature athlete
    • Musculoskeletal trauma, including:
      • fractures and dislocations as treated in the Emergency Department, injuries managed in the outpatient setting
      • casting and splinting

    At the completion of the clerkship experience the student should be able to:

    • Make a reasonable and appropriate differential diagnosis.
      • Know the pertinent diagnostic categories and the likelihood of each.
    • Students should be able to demonstrate the ability to perform a focused history and physical examination emphasizing evaluation of the spine and extremities in the pediatric and adolescent patient.
    • Students should be able to choose the appropriate imaging studies for such conditions as hip dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis, meniscus tears and anterior cruciate ligament disruptions and scoliosis.
    • Provide the standard of care in the community.
    • Know what you’re comfortable treating, and what should be referred.
    • Identify conditions that warrant referral to the relevant specialty.
      • These conditions include displaced limb fractures, especially those about the elbow, hip dysplasia, progressive scoliosis, knee cartilage and ligament injuries and bone and joint infections.
    • Ask for assistance when it is necessary and warranted.

    Faculty

    Gregory A. Schmale, M.D.

    Gregory A. Schmale, M.D.

    Associate Professor
    Acting Chief Medical Director, Division of Pediatric Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital
    Chief, Orthopaedic Medical Education, Seattle Children's Hospital
    Program Director, Orthopaedic Residency, Seattle Children's Hospital
    Clinic Chief, Sports, Seattle Children's Hospital

    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Jennifer M. Bauer, M.D.

    Jennifer M. Bauer, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Todd Blumberg, M.D.

    Todd Blumberg, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Mark C. Dales, M.D.

    Mark C. Dales, M.D.

    Clinical Associate Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Walter Krengel III, M.D.

    Walter Krengel III, M.D.

    Clinical Professor
    Chief of Spine Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital

    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Antoinette W. Lindberg, M.D.

    Antoinette W. Lindberg, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Oncology
    Pediatrics
    Vincent S. Mosca, M.D.

    Vincent S. Mosca, M.D.

    Professor
    Chief of Foot and Limb Deformities, Seattle Children's Hospital

    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Michael Saper, D.O.

    Michael Saper, D.O.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Suzanne E. Steinman, M.D.

    Suzanne E. Steinman, M.D.

    Clinical Associate Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Klane K. White, M.D.

    Klane K. White, M.D.

    Professor
    Director, Skeletal Health, Seattle Children's Hospital

    Specialties:
    Pediatrics
    Suzanne Marie Yandow, M.D.

    Suzanne Marie Yandow, M.D.

    Professor
    Specialties:
    Pediatrics

    Rotation Locations

    Seattle Children's Hospital

  • Preceptership in Orthopaedics (ORTHP 675)
    Course Number: ORTHP 675
    Credits: 4
    Offered: 2 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: Pass/Fail only
    EValue Status: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue
    Prerequisite: None
    Compliance Notes: Varies based on site; Clerkship requests less than 6 weeks before the start of the rotation will not be accepted.
    Contact the clerkship coordinator for more information.
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: various community practices
    Permission Required: Yes
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    The student will spend full time with the preceptor during all his/her working day in order to gain a better understanding of the diagnosis and management of problems of the musculoskeletal system as seen in a private orthopedic practice, both in the clinic and operating room. If the student has to drop the clerkship less than 4 weeks before the start of the rotation, it is the student’s responsibility to find another medical student to take his or her place.

     

     

  • Shoulder and Elbow (ORTHP 687)
    Course Number: ORTHP 687
    Credits: 8
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible
    EValue Status: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: UW Medical Center
    Permission Required: No
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Goals and Objectives:

    • Obtain a basic, relevant knowledge of shoulder and elbow anatomy and pathology. This may be achieved by:
      • reviewing Dr. Douglas Harryman's videos entitled, Safe and Effective Surgical Approaches to the Shoulder and Mechanisms of Glenohumeral Stability
    • Evaluate and develop management plans for patients with shoulder and elbow problems by: conducting a thorough/efficient clinical history and physical examination.
      • understanding the implications of systemic, emotional, and situational factors to the treatment of shoulder and elbow problems
      • understanding the relationship of conditions of the neck and brachial plexus to symptoms and findings in the shoulder and elbow area
      • understanding the indications for and interpretation of standard radiographs, CTs, MRIs, and sonograms of the shoulder and elbow
      • understanding the relevant basic science and anatomy (gross and arthroscopic) related to the shoulder and elbow
      • presenting basic treatment options, including home exercises, medications and surgery along with the alternatives and risks of each
      • understanding the diagnosis and treatment for a core group of shoulder problems including:
        • stability (atraumatic and traumatic instability)
        • stiffness (localized, global, idiopathic, diabetic, post-traumatic, and post-surgical)
        • smoothness (OA, RA, AVN, capsulorrhaphy arthropathy, cuff tear arthropathy, posttraumatic DJD, snapping scapula, and subacromial roughness)
        • strength (rotator cuff tears and nerve lesions)
        • biceps tendonitis
        • AC joint problems (DJD and separation)
        • trauma (clavicular, scapular, and proximal humeral fractures)
      • understanding the diagnosis and treatment for a core group of elbow problems including:
        • instability (acute and chronic ligament insufficiency)
        • stiffness (post-traumatic, post-surgical, heterotopic ossification)
        • smoothness (OA, RA, and post-traumatic DJD)
        • strength (distal biceps ruptures and nerve lesions)
        • medial and lateral epicondylitis
        • olecranon bursitis
        • loose bodies
        • entrapment neuropathies
        • trauma (distal humerus, radial head, olecranon, coronoid fractures)
      • understanding appropriate rehabilitation protocols and schedules for various shoulder and elbow problems, both conservative and post-operative

    Faculty

    Jason E. Hsu, M.D.

    Jason E. Hsu, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Shoulder and Elbow
    Albert O. Gee, M.D.

    Albert O. Gee, MD

    Associate Professor
    Chief, Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center
    Team Physician, Husky Athletics

    Specialties: Hip and Knee
    Shoulder and Elbow
    Sports Medicine
  • Sports Medicine (ORTHP 681)
    Course Number: ORTHP 681 - Seattle, WA
    ORTHP 686 - Boise, ID
    ORTHP 688 - Spokane, WA
    Credits: 8 (Spokane 4/8)
    Offered: 4 weeks full-time (Spokane offers 2 & 4 week)
    Grading Notes: High Pass/Honors eligible (2 week rotations Pass/Fail only)
    EValue Status:

    ORTHP 681: Some availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    ORTHP 686: Availability pre-entered; searchable in EValue
    ORTHP 688: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue

    Prerequisite: Completion of required third year Surgery clerkship
    Compliance Notes: Varies based on site; contact clerkship coordinator
    Standard 6 panel drug test through UWSOM is required for Spokane, WA site.
    Student will be contacted by site coordinator.
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Seattle, WA: Sports Medicine Center at Husky Stadium, UWMC
    Boise, ID: St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center
    Spokane, WA: Integrated Sports Medicine Rockwood, Valley Medical Center Spokane
    Permission Required: No: ORTHP 681, 686
    Yes: ORTHP 688
    Surgical Selective: Yes

    Students have “customized” experiences specific to their learning needs.

    For Boise, ID clerkship, students work primarily in one subspecialty area (foot and ankle) and in one general orthopaedic clinic.

    Goals and Objectives:

    • Perform and present a history and directed physical exam of patients presenting with sports-related musculoskeletal complaints.
    • Formulate a meaningful differential diagnosis of patients’ complaints, considering non-orthopaedic conditions as well as musculoskeletal conditions.
    • Become familiar with basic orthopaedic diagnostic and treatment strategies.
    • Become familiar with operative and non-operative treatment of common sports injuries.
    • Learn and understand principles of sports rehabilitation.
    • Understand unique aspects of orthopaedic surgical procedures, including meticulous sterile technique.

    Faculty

    Mia S. Hagen, M.D.

    Mia S. Hagen, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Stadium Clinic Surgical Director

    Specialties:
    Sports Medicine
    Christopher Y. Kweon, M.D.

    Christopher Y. Kweon, M.D.

    Assistant Professor
    Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program Director
    Team Physician, University of Washington Huskies

    Specialties:
    Sports Medicine
    Albert O. Gee, M.D.

    Albert O. Gee, MD

    Associate Professor
    Chief, Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center
    Team Physician, Husky Athletics

    Specialties: Hip and Knee
    Shoulder and Elbow
    Sports Medicine
    Kenneth Chin, M.D.

    Kenneth Chin, M.D.

    Clinical Assistant Professor
    Specialties:
    Foot and Ankle
    Sports Medicine

    Rotation Locations

    Sports Medicine Center at Husky Stadium
    3800 Montlake Blvd. NE, Seattle, WA 98195

  • Special and Away Electives (ORTHP 697 & 699)

    Orthopaedics Away Elective (ORTHP 697)

    Course Number: ORTHP 697
    Credits: Variable, max. 24
    Offered: Full-time
    Grading Notes: 4 or more weeks is High Pass/Honors eligible; less than 4 weeks is Pass/Fail only
    EValue Status: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue
    Prerequisite: Permission from department. MS4 students only. +
    2 month application process
    Compliance Notes: Variable based on away clerkship site
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Various outside WWAMI region
    Permission Required: Yes
    Surgical Selective: No

    By specific arrangement for qualified students, away electives may be available at other institutions located outside of the WWAMI region. Interested students must contact the Department, provide thorough information regarding the away clerkship’s details, and obtain departmental approval at least two (2) months prior to registration.

    At least two (2) months prior to the clerkship start date, students must contact the clerkship coordinator to arrange a meeting with the department’s director prior to finalizing the away clerkship rotation. Please note that students are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of the information given for evaluation and final grade submittal. The clerkship coordinator will notify the UWSOM Curriculum and Registration offices upon approval of the away clerkship rotation.

    Evaluations: Departmental evaluations are required to be completed by faculty and student prior to receiving a grade.

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    WWAMI Orthopaedic Special Assignment Elective (ORTHP 699)

    Course Number: ORTHP 699
    Credits: *, max. 24
    Offered: Full-time
    Grading Notes: 4 or more weeks is High Pass/Honors eligible; less than 4 weeks is Pass/Fail only
    EValue Status: Availability is set up after permission is granted; will not necessarily appear in EValue
    Prerequisite: Permission from department. MS4 students only. +
    2 month application process
    Compliance Notes: Variable based on site location; please contact clerkship coordinator.
    Clerkship Coordinator: Plinette Sanchez, 206-744-4927, orthomsp@uw.edu
    Clerkship site(s): Various within WWAMI
    Permission Required: Yes
    Surgical Selective: No

    By specific arrangement for qualified students, special assignment electives may be set up at institutions located within the WWAMI region. Special Assignment electives serve to provide students experiences that may fall outside of the boundaries of already established School of Medicine clerkships. Interested students must contact the Department, provide thorough information regarding the clerkship’s details, and obtain departmental approval at least two (2) months prior to registration.

    At least two (2) months prior to the clerkship start date, students must contact the clerkship coordinator to arrange a meeting with the department’s director prior to finalizing the away clerkship rotation. Please note that students are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of the information given for evaluation and final grade submittal. The clerkship coordinator will notify the UWSOM Curriculum and Registration offices upon approval of the away clerkship rotation.

    Evaluations: Departmental evaluations are required to be completed by faculty and student prior to receiving a grade.

Our Clerkship Sites

The Seattle Cancer Care Alliance is the home of one of the largest sarcoma programs in the country. Northwest Hospital and Medical Center provides an expanding and comprehensive exposure to community orthopaedic practice and patients. This foundation allows our program to enjoy substantial growth. The UW Sports Medicine Center, situated within the athletic training complex underneath Husky Stadium, provides state-of-the-art care to UW's 700 varsity student-athletes and is the preeminent referral center for the University and greater-Seattle community as the only academic sports medicine program in the northwest. Each of these centers provides a unique, balanced, comprehensive, and high-quality educational experience and exposes all residents that train here to the entire depth and breadth of orthopaedic patients and problems.

DUTY HOUR POLICY
All rotations comply with the UW institutional duty hours policy and ACGME requirements of the “80 hour work week”. This includes work hours, time between shifts, days away from hospital activities and total work hours.

 

Clerkship Evaluations 

All clerkship evaluations are completed through E*Value. Please find examples of the evaluations below:

Student Evaluation