Duration: 12 Months
Mode: Clinical Observership with Surgical Assistance (No independent procedures)
Stipend: Unpaid
Eligibility: International orthopaedic graduates holding MS/MD/DNB-equivalent qualifications
Department Overview
The Orthopaedics & Spine Surgery Department at Aster MIMS Calicut is a modern, advanced facility committed to delivering exceptional musculoskeletal care for patients of all age groups. The department handles a wide spectrum of orthopaedic conditions such as joint replacements (hip and knee), arthroscopic surgeries, surface hip replacements, complex fractures, and rheumatologic diseases.
Our team includes highly trained surgeons with expertise in areas like trauma surgery, sports medicine, ortho-oncology, pediatric orthopaedics, spine surgery, microvascular surgery, rheumatology, and rehabilitation. They are supported by trained nursing staff, rehabilitation therapists, and patient counselors. The unit features a digital Ortho ICU, a specialized sports medicine section, and designated operating units for various orthopaedic procedures. Additionally, we provide 24x7 trauma and emergency services along with outpatient day surgeries and orthopaedic rehabilitation programs.
Core Fellowship Objectives
- Gain firsthand clinical exposure in managing pelvic and acetabular fractures, focusing on 3D planning, reduction strategies, and surgical instrumentation.
- Assist in hip and knee arthroplasty cases, including robotic and revision surgeries.
- Participate in diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopic procedures for the knee and shoulder.
- Understand the functioning of the Indian healthcare system and experience high-volume surgical practices.
- Engage in structured research, academic meetings, and audits.
Fellowship Roadmap (Month-wise)
| Months | Focus Area | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orientation | Introduction to protocols, OT procedures, BLS/ATLS certification, initial observership |
| 2-4 | Pelvic & Acetabular Trauma | ORIF assistance, trauma board participation, pre-op planning and post-op care |
| 5–7 | Arthroplasty (Hip, Knee & Robotic) | Templating, implant selection, assisting in THA/TKA including robotic surgeries |
| 8–10 | Arthroscopy (Knee & Shoulder) | Exposure to ACL, meniscus repair, shoulder decompression, setup of arthroscopy towers |
| 11–12 | Research & Academics | Completion of a research project/audit, final presentation, and case log submission |
Surgical Involvement:
Scrubbed assisting under direct consultant supervision
No independent surgeries
Clinical Activities:
2–3 outpatient observation sessions weekly
Daily inpatient rounds with consultants
Observational exposure in trauma ER and rehab planning
Weekly: Surgical video sessions, clinical case discussions, grand rounds
Monthly: Journal club, M&M meetings
Quarterly: Simulation/dry lab skills assessments, audit and research presentations
Quarterly performance feedback from faculty
Review and approval of maintained surgical case logs
Fellowship Certificate awarded by Aster MIMS Kozhikode upon successful completion
Observe the full workflow of robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) including pre-op planning, intra-op registration, and bone cuts
Assist in robotic knee surgeries (multiple systems/platforms depending on availability)
Opportunity to attend cadaver/dry-lab workshops organized by industry partners
By the 11th month, each fellow is expected to complete one of the following with faculty support:
A retrospective clinical audit or study
A case series or literature review suitable for publication
Type: Clinical fellowship (observership with hands-on assistance)
Stipend: Not provided (self-funded)
Accommodation: Assistance in securing local accommodation; hospital lodging subject to availability
Duty Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (includes academic and emergency observation)
Registration: Temporary/state medical registration is advised; support provided for paperwork
Application Guidelines
International candidates with a recognized postgraduate orthopaedic degree
1–2 years of prior clinical experience preferred
Fluency in English; TOEFL/IELTS recommended but not required
Intake: 1 candidate per cycle
CV with a recent photograph
Copy of orthopaedic qualification certificate
Passport and visa copy
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Optional Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to attend state and national orthopaedic conferences during the tenure
