What It Means to Be a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Service Information
What It Means to Be a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

In the world of medicine, orthopedic surgeons play a critical role in restoring function and relieving pain in the musculoskeletal system. But what sets apart a truly distinguished surgeon? The title of Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, awarded by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), represents the highest standard of excellence in the field.

This blog will break down what it means to hold this certification, how it’s earned, and why it matters for your care.

The Long Road to Board Certification

Becoming a board-certified orthopedic surgeon requires years of education, hands-on training, and passing multiple rigorous exams.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

  1. Undergraduate Education: 4 years of foundational studies, typically in sciences
  2. Medical School: Another 4 years of intensive medical training
  3. Residency: 5 years in a specialized orthopedic surgery program, with practical experience treating real patients

Certification Exams: Knowledge Meets Application

The path to certification doesn’t end after residency. Surgeons must pass a two-step exam process through the ABOS:

  • Written Examination: Tests deep knowledge of orthopedic principles, clinical practices, and diagnostic skills
  • Oral Examination: Involves presenting real patient cases to a panel of experienced orthopedic surgeons who evaluate decision-making, ethics, and communication

This process ensures that every board-certified orthopedic surgeon is prepared not just academically, but clinically, to deliver excellent care.

Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

Board certification isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s a lifelong commitment to continuous learning. Every 10 years, board-certified surgeons must:

  • Complete continuing medical education (CME)
  • Stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices
  • Submit a case list of surgeries for peer review
  • Undergo professionalism assessments by fellow board-certified peers

This renewal process ensures that board-certified surgeons are always operating at the highest standards.

Why Board Certification Matters for Patients

For patients, choosing a board-certified orthopedic surgeon means choosing a provider who has been:

  • Extensively trained and tested
  • Continuously evaluated by their peers
  • Committed to delivering safe, effective, and ethical care

It builds trust—not only for patients, but also for referring physicians and families making important healthcare decisions.

Board-Certified Providers at Iowa Ortho

At Iowa Ortho, many of our physicians hold board certifications from highly respected national organizations, including:

To verify your provider’s certifications, visit their profile on our Providers Page.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a board-certified orthopedic surgeon is a crucial step in your care journey. This distinction signals skill, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the highest standard of patient care. At Iowa Ortho, we’re proud to uphold these values in every procedure, consultation, and recovery plan.