We focus on practical training, research, clinical services and real-world experience to prepare students for careers in orthopedic medicine. Through our partnership with Baptist Health South Florida, students gain early exposure to subspecialties, develop surgical skills and receive mentorship to help them navigate the path to residency.
Department Address
Department of Orthopedics
11200 SW 8th Street,
AHC2 464
Miami, FL 33199
Phone: 305-348-9166
For more information, contact Juliet Bello, coordinator of administrative services.
Clinical Services
Our physicians provide care across a wide range of orthopedic subspecialties. We treat common musculoskeletal conditions and sports-related injuries with a focus on helping patients recover mobility, reduce pain and return to the activities they enjoy.
Education & Training
We provide educational opportunities to support medical students throughout their training. Second-year students start with a musculoskeletal course in orthopedic medicine. Third and fourth-year students can participate in elective and surgical rotations in subspecialties like sports medicine, joint replacement and spine care. We also offer mentorship, research opportunities and guidance for orthopedic residency applications, including bridge year planning.
Our fellowships in sports medicine and foot and ankle surgery offer additional hands-on training for graduates seeking advanced clinical experience.
Research
We prioritize outcomes-based research and evidence-based practice. Faculty and students collaborate on studies that evaluate treatment effectiveness, long-term outcomes and functional recovery across a variety of orthopedic procedures and patient populations.
Ongoing research includes projects in sports medicine, joint replacement and spine surgery, with a focus on identifying which techniques offer the best results and long-term function. The department is developing a microsurgical lab at the College of Medicine and offers access to surgical training and cadaver-based procedures at Doctors Hospital.
Students are encouraged to participate in research, including bridge-year opportunities before residency. Research efforts are led by Dr. Luis Vargas, who oversees orthopedic research and student involvement.
Faculty & Staff
Our faculty specializes in various areas, including sports medicine, joint replacement and spine and hand surgery. They're actively involved in clinical care, education and research, providing students with mentorship and real-world experience.