Salt Lake City, UT — The Department of Orthopaedics at the University of Utah’s Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine proudly announces the graduation of its 2025 class of orthopaedic residents. The annual graduation and resident research symposium was held on Friday, June 20, 2025, showcasing the academic and clinical accomplishments of an exceptional group of physicians.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Darrel Brodke, MD, Chair of Orthopaedics, setting the tone for a day of scholarly achievement and celebration.
Graduating Resident Research Presentations
The morning was highlighted by resident research presentations, each introduced by faculty mentors and colleagues:
Dr. Joshua Daryoush presented his study on linking PROMIS Physical Function CAT scores with QuickDASH scores in hand surgery, aiming to improve functional outcome assessments. His research was mentored by Dr. Nikolas Kazmers.
Dr. Olivia Grothaus explored environmental impacts in orthopaedic practice through a life cycle assessment comparing casting and splinting materials. Her work, under the guidance of Dr. Laurie Bellaire, emphasized the growing importance of sustainability in healthcare.
Focusing on hip osteoarthritis care, Dr. Josh Rainey examined patient satisfaction, complications, and quality improvements associated with intra-articular corticosteroid injections. His study was supported by a team of mentors including Drs. Jeremy Gilliland, Lucas Anderson, Michael Archibeck, Christopher Pelt, and Christopher Peters.
Dr. Ellie Sato addressed outcomes in tibial plateau fractures, concluding that intraoperative meniscus repairs did not significantly affect midterm patient-reported outcomes. Her research was mentored by Drs. Justin Haller, Thomas Higgins, Lucas Marchand, and David Rothberg.
Dr. Matthew Siebert contributed a prospective analysis of medial clear space widening in Weber B ankle fractures, comparing three diagnostic methods to enhance surgical decision-making. He worked under the mentorship of Drs. Charles Saltzman and Lucas Marchand.
Dr. Emily Treu investigated diagnostic accuracy in prosthetic joint infections, comparing fluoroscopic and ultrasound-guided hip aspiration techniques. Her research, mentored by Dr. Michael Archibeck, offered valuable insights for improving diagnostic efficiency and accuracy.
Visiting Professor and Awards
The event also welcomed renowned Visiting Professor Annunziato (Ned) Amendola, MD, who delivered a keynote lecture titled “The Art of Orthopedic Research.” Dr. Amendola’s presentation underscored the creativity, curiosity, and collaboration essential to meaningful scientific progress in orthopaedics.
The day concluded with the presentation of the Sherman Coleman Resident Research Awards, honoring the exceptional academic efforts of the graduating residents. These awards reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to nurturing physician-scientists who will lead future innovations in musculoskeletal care.
As the Class of 2025 moves forward into the next phase of their careers, they leave behind a legacy of inquiry, leadership, and service that will continue to inspire both faculty and future trainees in the Department of Orthopaedics.
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