Morris J. Fendley, M.D.

Becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon: The Journey of Morris J. Fendley, M.D.

Location and Introduction

In the heart of Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA, resides Morris J. Fendley, M.D., a distinguished orthopedic surgeon dedicated to restoring mobility and alleviating pain for his patients. To understand the expertise and commitment of Dr. Fendley, it is essential to delve into the rigorous training, education, and specialized skills that define his career.

Training and Education

The path to becoming an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Fendley is long and demanding, requiring a minimum of 13 years of formal education and training after high school.

1. Undergraduate Degree: Dr. Fendley began his journey by obtaining a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or a pre-medical program. This foundational education provided him with a strong grasp of the basic sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

2. Medical School: Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Fendley attended medical school for four years. During this period, he was immersed in coursework covering fundamental medical subjects like anatomy, biochemistry, patient interactions, and pharmacology. The latter part of medical school involved clinical rotations, which gave him practical experience in various medical specialties.

3. Medical Licensing: Concurrently with his academic pursuits, Dr. Fendley began the process of obtaining his medical license by passing the initial steps of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).

4. Residency Program: After medical school, Dr. Fendley enrolled in an orthopedic surgery residency program, which typically lasts five years. This intensive training included one year of general surgery and four years of specialized orthopedic training. During this period, he received hands-on training, participated in surgical procedures, and developed expertise in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions.

5. Fellowship Training: To further his expertise, Dr. Fendley may have pursued additional fellowship training in a specific subspecialty within orthopedics, such as sports medicine, adult reconstructive orthopedics, or spine surgery. These fellowships provide specialized training and hands-on experience, usually lasting one to two years.

6. Board Certification: Finally, Dr. Fendley attained board certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), which involved passing rigorous written and oral examinations to demonstrate his knowledge, clinical judgment, and surgical proficiency.

Skills and Competencies

As an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Fendley possesses a broad range of skills and competencies:

• Clinical Expertise: He is skilled in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
• Surgical Proficiency: Dr. Fendley is proficient in performing various surgical procedures, from routine operations to complex surgeries involving the spine, hips, knees, and other joints.
• Diagnostic Skills: He is adept at ordering and interpreting medical tests such as x-rays, CT/CAT scans, and MRIs to accurately diagnose musculoskeletal disorders.
• Patient Care: Dr. Fendley is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to his patients, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment and follow-up care.

Areas of Specialization

Orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Fendley can specialize in various subspecialties within the field of orthopedics, including:

• Adult Reconstructive Orthopedics: Focuses on joint replacement and reconstruction surgeries.
• Foot and Ankle Orthopedics: Specializes in treating conditions affecting the feet and ankles.
• Hand Surgery: Involves surgical procedures for hand and wrist conditions.
• Musculoskeletal Oncology: Deals with the diagnosis and treatment of bone and soft tissue tumors.
• Sports Medicine: Concentrates on treating sports-related injuries and conditions.
• Spine Surgery: Involves surgical procedures for conditions affecting the spine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to become an orthopedic surgeon?

A: It typically takes at least 13 years of education and training after high school to become an orthopedic surgeon.

Q: What kind of training does an orthopedic surgeon undergo?

A: An orthopedic surgeon undergoes undergraduate studies, medical school, a residency program, and may also pursue fellowship training.

Q: What are the key skills of an orthopedic surgeon?

A: Key skills include clinical expertise, surgical proficiency, diagnostic skills, and patient care.

Q: Can orthopedic surgeons specialize in different areas?

A: Yes, orthopedic surgeons can specialize in various subspecialties such as adult reconstructive orthopedics, foot and ankle orthopedics, hand surgery, and more.

Dr. Morris J. Fendley’s extensive education, specialized training, and commitment to his patients make him a highly skilled and compassionate orthopedic surgeon, dedicated to providing the best care possible in Harrisonburg, Virginia.