Akron Children’s hosted its tenth Pediatric Orthopedic Review Course on Oct. 24 and 25 at the John S. Knight Center. The course, designed as an immersive experience for pediatric residents, provided a comprehensive review of pediatric orthopedic surgery utilizing sawbone models for practicing surgical skills
On Oct. 24 and 25, Akron Children’s hosted its 10th annual Pediatric Orthopedic Review Course, drawing orthopedic residents from across northern Ohio to the John S. Knight Center for an immersive educational experience. Endorsed by the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, the course provided a comprehensive review of pediatric orthopedic surgery, featuring 11 surgical simulation skills labs utilizing sawbone models.
“The course is an intense review of pediatric orthopedics,” said Dr. Patrick Riley Sr., pediatric orthopedic surgeon and course co-director. “The program is designed to help residents prepare for the Orthopedic In-Training Examination and the ABOS Part 1 Examination.”
Financial support from the Armstrong Children’s Orthopedic Alliance covered supplies, meals and sawbone models, allowing pediatric surgeons from various institutions to donate their time to teaching.
The brainchild of Akron Children’s orthopedics department chair Dr. Todd Ritzman, who remains its co-director, the course attracted over 75 orthopedic surgical residents at various levels of training. Participants engaged in hands-on skills training in small groups, rotating through various stations focused on forearm fractures, spinal surgery, foot and ankle procedures and ACL reconstruction. “We usually spend about 10 minutes on each case, focusing on upper extremity trauma, lower extremity trauma, spine cases, sports medicine and hip issues,” Dr. Riley noted.
In addition to practical skills, the course promoted interactive learning through case-based discussions. Prior to the event, residents received digital access to case studies, allowing them to engage more deeply in discussions. “Residents prefer this interactive approach,” Dr. Riley said. “This way, we can present a case and encourage robust discussion.”
Financial support from the Armstrong Children’s Orthopedic Alliance covered essential costs such as supplies, meals and sawbone models, allowing pediatric surgeons from various institutions, including Akron Children’s, Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Nationwide Children’s and Riley Children’s (Indianapolis) among others, to donate their time to teaching.
Residents engaged in hands-on skills training in small groups, rotating through various stations focused on forearm fractures, spinal surgery, foot and ankle procedures and ACL reconstruction. In addition to practical skills, the course promoted interactive learning through case-based discussions.
In addition to providing valuable networking opportunities for senior residents interested in fellowship opportunities, the course also covered soft skills like time management and prioritization which can help residents struggling with work life balance.
“Sharing experiences and insights on balancing a demanding career with personal life is invaluable,” said Dr. Ritzman. “Our faculty have so much more to offer our residents than surgical training, and we enjoy mentoring residents as they embark on their careers.”
“This course not only enhances technical skills but also fosters a supportive community among future pediatric surgeons,” said Dr. Riley. “By bridging the gap between rigorous training and practical application, the course equips residents with essential tools to excel both in exams and in their future practices.”
With a resounding 100% of past participants recommending the course, it stands as a testament to the commitment of Akron Children’s and its partners to cultivate the next generation of skilled, compassionate orthopedic surgeons.
