Aspirant have to follow a multi-stage process to become an Orthopaedic surgeon. They have to pass 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as the main subjects. Candidates have to undergo a four year MBBS course following which an MD in Orthopedics should be done. Aspirants become qualified to practice as orthopedic surgeons on the completion of all these stages.

Process involved in becoming an Orthopaedic Surgeon

The primary step involved in becoming an orthopaedic surgeon is to pass the 10+2 or an equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as the main subjects. This makes an aspirant eligible to pursue an education in Medicine.

The next step is to appear for Medical entrance examinations. Aspirants can appear for examinations like AIPMT, JIPMER or any other entrance examination for admission to college of choice.

Aspirants are required to complete the four year MBBS course. An additional year of Residency should also be completed. Candidates also have the option of pursuing specialized course in Orthopaedics after 10+2. Accordingly, candidates can opt for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in Orthopaedics (MBBS Orthopaedics).

After the MBBS course, aspirants have to enroll for the Master of Surgery programme in Orthopaedics (MS Orthopedics). Admissions to the MS course will be based on the performance of the candidates in the post graduate entrance examinations. Aspirants can specialize in any of the following:

• Hand Surgery
• Orthopaedic Trauma
• Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
• Total Joint Reconstruction (Arthroplasty)
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Oncology
• Spine Surgery
• Paediatric Orthopedics
• Surgical Sports Medicine

Candidates who have completed their Post Graduate Diploma in Orthopaedics can complete the Master of Surgery programme in 2 years. For students who are pursuing the course directly after MBBS, the duration of the MS course is 3 years.

After completing the MS programme, aspirants can start a career as a junior doctor and proceed to become an orthopaedic surgeon after gaining some experience. Those who qualify as orthopaedic surgeons can also work in medical colleges as teachers. Part time opportunities are also available wherein surgeons can guide resident scholars as well as practice surgery simultaneously. Aspirants also have the opportunity to pursue research in this field. Aspirants can choose to practice as orthopaedic surgeons in the following organizations/ associations:

• Independent practice associations (IPAs)
• Health maintenance organizations (HMOs)
• Preferred provider organizations (PPOs)

Fresh graduates can expect an annual pay of Rs 3,00, 000- Rs 3,50,000, depending on the organization and sector in which they are employed. The pay scale for Government employees will be fixed as per State/Central Government norms.