Robert Pedowitz, MD, PhD, of the University of California- San Diego, named chair of USFís newly created Department of Orthopedic Surgery

Tampa, FL (October 4, 2006) -

“It is critical for this region to have a major academic department of orthopedic surgery at USF Health,” said Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA, dean of the College of Medicine and vice president for USF Health. “We’re bringing a nationally prominent orthopedic surgeon to the region, we’re reaching out to schools to prevent needless deaths on the practice fields of the state and we’re creating a national model for orthopedic training that engages our community.” 

Dr. Pedowitz was recruited from the University of California- San Diego where he is a professor and Chief of Sports Medicine, Director of the Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Director of Research for the San Diego Arthroscopy & Sports Medicine Fellowship and Team Physician for Intercollegiate Athletics UC-SD. The award-winning physician is also a consultant for the Player’s Association of the National Football League and an attending orthopedic surgeon for the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Diego.

Dr. Pedowitz joins the College of Medicine at a pivotal time in orthopedics, as well as sports medicine and safety. This year, the Florida Legislature appropriated $3 million to create a statewide Sports Medicine & Athletic-Related Trauma (SMART) Institute at USF, adding to the $500,000 seed funding appropriated in 2005. The interdisciplinary center promotes the health and safety of athletes through education, intervention and research and clinical care. The College of Medicine is also applying for a residency program in orthopedic surgery, enabling orthopedic surgery residents to train at its advanced outpatient center under construction as well as USF-affiliated hospitals throughout the Tampa Bay area. .

Orthopedic surgery, or orthopedics, specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of injuries and diseases involving the body's bones and muscles.