Second Thoughts

Three months in to intern year I am having second thoughts on the program that I matched. NOT ORTHO. Still love that. Not that there is anything I can really do but has anyone else felt this way. I came from a good Medical school and worked my A** off. During interviews I gravitated towards community programs do to the type of people and somewhat easier lifestyle. Now I feel like I should have gone to an academic place. I feel like if I ranked them higher I would have matched at a high power place. Any advice is appreciated.

-JS

what dont you like so far??

I feel like I might not get the volume. Also the trauma that I have seen the guys do is alright mainly nails and but not the real complicated stuff involving the pelvis and spine that I saw on some away rotations. Not that I want to do trauma but I think it would be good to see. I hope these feelings change as I start some ortho call and rotations. Finally to be honest name recognition probably plays a part also.

As a PGY-5 at a southern trauma heavy program (and a former Tulane resident coming from Charity), I'll assure you that the volume certainly has made me a more confident surgeon. And gradually, a better surgeon. There' something to be said for getting reps and operating above your head..... at times. Even if you have a bad case or day, you're placed right back at the plate to take another swing. And hopefully, you learn from your past mistakes and improve your surgical acumen. The trade off is the hours and intensity.

What's the positive form all this.... your trauma improved hands can be applied to other facets of orthopaedics (sports/hand/etc.)

With that being said, it sounds like you are fortunate to have sports, joints, etc covered also at your current program. Trust me, you want to learn these things b/c in the real ortho world....you will probably just nail or ex-fix most BAD things.

And finally, there's always fellowship if you think you need it

Hope this helps

Ultimately, .