Orthopaedic Surgery in UK
MS Orthopaedic Surgery courses in UK is a subspecialty surgical training formally recognized as FRCS Ortho UK. It is one of the most sought-after pathways for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking MCI-recognized orthopaedic surgery abroad.
Orthopaedic surgery focuses on the musculoskeletal system, dealing with both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for:
Musculoskeletal trauma
Spinal diseases
Sports injuries
Degenerative disorders
Infections & tumors
Congenital anomalies
The MS Orthopaedic Surgery course in the UK is ideal for Indian medical graduates aiming to specialize in orthopaedic surgery abroad with GMC-approved training in top UK universities and NHS hospitals.
MS Orthopaedic Surgery courses in UK: Scope
Common procedures performed by Orthopedic surgeons during their professional careers in the UK are as follows:
- Knee arthroscopy and meniscectomy
- Shoulder arthroscopy and decompression
- Carpal tunnel release
- Knee arthroscopy and chondroplasty
- Removal of support implant
- Knee arthroscopy and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
- Knee replacement
- Repair of femoral neck fracture
- Repair of trochanteric fracture
- Debridement of skin/muscle/bone/fracture
- Knee arthroscopy repair of both menisci
- Hip replacement
- Shoulder arthroscopy/distal clavicle excision
- Repair of the rotator cuff tendon
- Repair fracture of radius (bone)/ulna
- Laminectomy
- Repair of ankle fracture (bimalleolar type)
- Shoulder arthroscopy and debridement
- Lumbar spinal fusion
- Repair fracture of the distal part of the radius
- Low back intervertebral disc surgery
- Incise finger tendon sheath
- Repair of ankle fracture (fibula)
- Repair of femoral shaft fracture
- Repair of trochanteric fracture
An orthopaedic surgeon usually works around 50–55 hours per week divided between clinic, surgery, various administrative duties and possibly teaching and/or research if in an academic setting.
Why Study MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK?
- Globally Recognized Qualification – UK degrees are accepted worldwide, making it an ideal choice for those seeking MCI-recognized orthopaedic surgery abroad.
- NHS Clinical Training – Students gain hands-on experience in National Health Service (NHS) hospitals, a significant advantage for future career growth.
- MRCS & FRCS Pathway – The MS Orthopaedic Surgery UK program is a stepping stone toward MRCS UK certification and FRCS Ortho specialization.
- PLAB Exemption – Many postgraduate courses in orthopaedic surgery abroad offer alternative routes like MRCS and GMC Sponsorship (ISTP Route) instead of PLAB.
- High Salary & Career Growth – Orthopaedic surgeons in the UK earn competitive salaries and have access to super-specialty training in leading hospitals.
Top UK Universities Offering MS Orthopaedic Surgery in UK
UK universities provide MCI-recognized orthopaedic surgery abroad programs with world-class training:
MSc Trauma & Orthopaedics – University of Dundee
- MCh Orthopaedic Surgery – University of Dundee
MSc Orthopaedic Science – Imperial College London
MSc Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Technology – University of Strathclyde
MCh Orthopaedic Surgery – University of Edinburgh
MSc Rheumatology – King’s College London
MSc Motion Analysis – University of Liverpool
These programs provide advanced surgical skills and prepare students for FRCS Ortho UK certification and NHS practice.
MS Orthopaedic Surgery in UK: MRCS Training Pathway
What is MRCS UK?
The MRCS (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons) exam is an essential qualification for international students pursuing orthopaedic surgery abroad. It serves as a gateway to higher surgical training in the UK.
MRCS UK Eligibility:
- Recognized Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ)
- Minimum 1 years of clinical experience
- English proficiency – IELTS or OET with required bands
Clearing the MRCS UK exam enables students to register with GMC UK and train in NHS hospitals.
MS Orthopaedic Surgery in UK: GMC Sponsorship (ISTP Route)
The International Surgical Training Programme (ISTP) is a GMC-recognized pathway for international doctors seeking orthopaedic surgery training abroad in the UK.
Eligibility for ISTP Route:
- Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) approved by GMC UK
- Minimum 2 years of full-time clinical practice post-internship
- Accepted PG Qualification (e.g., MS, MRCS)
- No prior attempt at PLAB
- IELTS (7.5 overall, 7.0 in each category)
Through ISTP sponsorship, students can obtain GMC registration and work in NHS hospitals without taking PLAB.
The International Surgical Training Programme (ISTP) is an initiative by the Royal College of Surgeons of England which provides an opportunity to ambitious International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to obtain sponsorship for GMC registration and the Tier 5 visa so that they can undertake training and development in UK hospitals for a maximum of 24 months.
Career Prospects After MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK
Graduates from MS Orthopaedic Surgery UK programs have various career opportunities:
- NHS Consultant Positions – Work as a certified orthopaedic surgeon in NHS hospitals.
- FRCS Ortho Specialization – Advance to higher surgical training and super-specialization.
- Private Practice – Open orthopaedic clinics in India, UK, or other countries.
- Medical Research & Teaching – Work in universities and medical institutions.
Common Orthopaedic Procedures in the UK
Orthopaedic surgeons in the UK specialize in the following procedures:
Knee Arthroscopy & Meniscectomy
Shoulder Arthroscopy & Decompression
Knee Replacement & ACL Reconstruction
Femoral Neck & Trochanteric Fracture Repair
Hip Replacement Surgery
Lumbar Spinal Fusion & Laminectomy
Carpal Tunnel Release
Intervertebral Disc Surgery
A practicing orthopaedic surgeon in the UK typically works 50-55 hours per week, including clinical duties, surgeries, research, and academic responsibilities.
FAQs on MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK
Can I study MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK without PLAB?
Yes, Indian medical graduates can pursue MCI-recognized orthopaedic surgery abroad in the UK through MRCS or ISTP routes without taking PLAB.
How much does MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK cost?
Tuition fees range from £18,000 – £30,000 per year, depending on the university. Additional costs include living expenses and GMC registration fees.
Is MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK recognized by MCI (NMC India)?
Yes, certain universities and programs are recognized by MCI/NMC India for medical practice in India after clearing the FMGE exam.
What is the salary of an orthopaedic surgeon in the UK?
The average salary ranges from £50,000 – £120,000 per year, depending on experience and job role.
Conclusion
Pursuing MS Orthopaedic Surgery in the UK is an excellent opportunity for Indian doctors seeking MCI-recognized orthopaedic surgery abroad. With top universities, NHS training, and GMC pathways, students can build a successful career without PLAB.
For expert guidance on admissions, GMC registration, and visa applications, contact Career Voyage – MD MS Abroad today!!
