Future in Orthopaedics | The career guidance Mega series | Ep 04 | Dr.Satya kumar koduru |

Summary

In this career guidance video, Dr. JT and Dr. Satyakumar discuss the orthopedics specialty, its importance, and the life of a postgraduate student in this field. They cover the reasons to choose orthopedics, its standing in India and globally, the top colleges for the subject, and the workload and stress levels associated with the branch. The conversation also touches on the various sub-specialties within orthopedics, the importance of passion, and the potential earnings in the field. Dr. Satyakumar encourages students to follow their interests and provides advice on balancing professional and personal life, ending with a light-hearted discussion on the social aspects of being an orthopedic surgeon.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. JT is a resident and part-time YouTuber who discusses career guidance for medical students, focusing on the orthopedics branch.
• 🏥 Orthopedics is highlighted as a strong, stylish, and cool branch that can make people physically strong and confident.
• 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Satyakumar shares his journey, starting from MBBS to post-graduation and fellowships in joint replacement and trauma.
• 🌟 Orthopedics stands in the top five branches globally due to the prevalence of accidents and aging populations with bone issues.
• 🌍 Indian orthopedics is on par with international standards, quickly adopting the latest techniques and technologies.
• 🏆 Top government and private colleges for orthopedics in India are identified, including Bangalore Medical College and JJM Medical College.
• 📚 The importance of passion for the subject is emphasized, as it's crucial for handling the workload and stress of post-graduation studies.
• 🔧 Post-graduation in orthopedics involves a significant workload, with long hours and a focus on both surgical skills and theoretical knowledge.
• 💼 Career options after MS Orthopedics include various sub-specialties, corporate sector jobs, and setting up private practices.
• 🚺 Orthopedics is not just for men; women are encouraged to pursue it, especially in sub-specialties like pediatric orthopedics and arthroscopy.
• 💰 Earning potential varies widely, from modest salaries in certain setups to high incomes in private practice, emphasizing the importance of experience and specialization.

Q & A

What inspired Dr. Satyakumar to choose orthopedics as his specialty?

Dr. Satyakumar was inspired by the transformation he witnessed in patients during his posting in the orthopedic department at Government Wenlock Hospital in Mangalore. Patients who initially came in wheelchairs or with support were able to walk on their own after treatment, which left a strong impression on him.

How does Dr. Satyakumar view the importance of orthopedics in India and globally?

Orthopedics is considered one of the top five medical branches due to the prevalence of road traffic accidents, high-speed vehicles, and issues related to aging such as osteoporotic bones and arthritic joints. It is an evergreen branch and is life-changing for those who choose it.

What are the differences in orthopedic practices between India and countries like the US, UK, and Australia?

Dr. Satyakumar mentions that India is not lagging behind in terms of orthopedic practices. The latest techniques and technologies that are used in countries like the US, UK, and Australia are also being implemented in India, often within a week of their introduction.

What are the top five government colleges for orthopedics in India according to Dr. Satyakumar?

Dr. Satyakumar considers Bangalore Medical College as the top choice in South India, followed by JMMC in Davangere, which is attached to a government hospital. Other notable government colleges include those in Mumbai, Safdarjang in New Delhi, and AMES.

Which private colleges does Dr. Satyakumar recommend for orthopedics in India?

Dr. Satyakumar recommends Ramayana Ramachandra in Chennai, VAIDE in Bangalore, DUI Party in Mumbai, and colleges in Pune for orthopedics.

How does Dr. Satyakumar describe the workload for postgraduate students in orthopedics?

The workload for postgraduate students in orthopedics is immense, with their work life starting as early as 7:30 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. The workload is similar across both government and private colleges, with some private colleges in Karnataka being at par with government colleges.

What advice does Dr. Satyakumar give to PG students to balance surgical skills and theoretical learning in orthopedics?

Dr. Satyakumar advises that students should have a zeal for orthopedics and follow the curriculum set by the department. By the end of the first year, they should be able to confidently operate on at least five cases on their own.

How does Dr. Satyakumar address the stress levels faced by PG students in orthopedics?

He believes that if students do their work properly, stress should not be an issue. Stress levels are an individual perception and depend on the student's personality, upbringing, and environment.

What are the career options after completing an MS in orthopedics according to Dr. Satyakumar?

After completing an MS in orthopedics, one can opt for various sub-specialties such as pediatric orthopedics, spinal surgery, arthroscopy, sports medicine, arthroplasty, trauma orthopedics, hand surgery, and ortho biologics. Dr. Satyakumar suggests getting trained for at least three years before starting one's own practice.

Does Dr. Satyakumar believe that orthopedics is a suitable branch for female students?

Yes, Dr. Satyakumar believes that orthopedics is suitable for female students as well. He mentions that with the advent of technological advancements, the physical strength required in orthopedics has reduced, allowing for a more skill-based practice. He encourages female students to pursue orthopedics if they are interested.

What is the earning potential for an orthopedic surgeon according to Dr. Satyakumar?

The earning potential varies based on the work setting. In a private setup, especially in Andhra, the initial pay might be low, but in a corporate setup, a decent starting salary can be around 100,000 Indian Rupees per month. For experienced professionals with five years of experience, the earning can be around 250,000 Indian Rupees per month. However, for those with their own practice, the earnings can be significantly higher.