Expert: Dr. Kevin D. Kanz - 5/4/2006

Question
I am currently a pre-med student, and lately have been trying to decide what specialty I would like to go into. I would really like to go into orthopedic surgery, but I have spoken to a lot of people and they are saying that I wouldn't be able to do it because I am a female. After hearing all of that from everyone, it has really gotten me down, and I have actually contemplated dropping out of school.

I have been extremely interested in orthopedics for a few years now following a knee injury and 4 surgeries to fix it.

Anyway, I guess my question is, do you think it would be bad for a female to go into orthopedic surgery?

Thank you so much for your time,
Kayla

Answer
Dear Kayla,
I've worked with a number of female orthopedists, and have found them every bit as competent and successful as their male counterparts.  The days of orthopedics being an 'old boys club' I hope are long gone, or at least they seem to be.  It seems that most orthopedic surgeons are subspecializing into specific areas of interest more and more these days.  Unless you wish to do general trauma or rural orthopedic surgery, you will find that most orthopedic residents and fellows have already decided to do only spine, knees, shoulders, hands or pediatrics. I've also noticed that a number of these guys & gals are going into orthopedic medicine, with less emphasis on surgery (sports medicine, manual medicine, prolotherapy etc.).  My answer to your question is NO.  If you think orthopedics is your calling, go for it.  And don't let anybody change your mind with antiquated bias...
~Dr.K