When researching orthopedic care, you may come across the term “fellowship-trained.” While it may sound like a technical credential, it represents a high level of expertise and specialized training that can make a big difference in your care.
At Iowa Ortho, we believe patients should understand what this qualification means and how it benefits them when choosing an orthopedic provider.
What Is a Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Doctor?
A fellowship-trained orthopedic doctor is a physician who completes a competitive, post-residency program known as a fellowship. This advanced training focuses intensely on one subspecialty area of orthopedics.
During their fellowship, doctors work under the guidance of leading specialists, perform hundreds of complex procedures, and gain deep, hands-on experience managing challenging cases in their focus area.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Doctor?
Becoming a fellowship-trained orthopedic specialist takes many years of education and training. Here’s a typical timeline:
- Undergraduate Degree – 4 years
- Medical School – 4 years
- Orthopedic Surgery Residency – 5 years
- Orthopedic Fellowship – 1–2 years of advanced specialty training
In total, fellowship-trained doctors invest at least 14 years in becoming experts in their field.
Why Fellowship Training Matters for Patients
Choosing a fellowship-trained orthopedic provider offers significant advantages:
- Focused Expertise: Fellowship-trained surgeons are specialists in a particular area of orthopedics, allowing for more precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.
- Advanced Skills: These providers stay at the forefront of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and cutting-edge technology.
- Better Outcomes: Studies show that surgeons who perform a high volume of procedures in one specialty area often achieve better patient outcomes and fewer complications.
- Personalized Care: Subspecialists are uniquely equipped to handle complex or uncommon conditions with greater accuracy and efficiency.
Fellowship-Trained Experts at Iowa Ortho
At Iowa Ortho, many of our physicians have completed fellowship training at some of the most respected orthopedic programs in the country. Our team includes subspecialists in:
- Adult Reconstruction (Total Joint Replacement)
- Foot and Ankle Surgery
- Hand and Upper Extremity
- Musculoskeletal Oncology
- Pain Management
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
- Spine Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Trauma and Fracture Care
We believe that advanced training leads to better care, and that’s exactly what we provide.
Schedule with an Expert at Iowa Ortho
When you choose a fellowship-trained orthopedic doctor at Iowa Ortho, you’re choosing a provider with the advanced skill, experience, and focus necessary to guide you from diagnosis through recovery.
Call us at 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online to meet with one of our orthopedic specialists today.