Orthopaedic Surgery Residents
Johns Hopkins Medicine is a leader in the education and training of physicians and biomedical scientists. Our residents and fellows are among the most creative and outstanding leaders in medicine and science in the 21st century and are trained in cutting-edge science, novel treatments and the wise use of technology and avoidance of unnecessary medical tests and procedures. Learn more about our residency program in orthopaedic surgery.
Postgraduate Year One (PGY-1)
John Avendano, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Columbia University
Hometown: Colts Neck, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "At Hopkins, we have an exceptional operative experience, abundant research opportunities, and faculty who are leaders in the field. Under the guidance of Dr. LaPorte and Dr. Ficke, our program has fostered a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation that prepares residents to become future leaders in Orthopaedic Surgery. Yet while the clinical experience here is outstanding, it is the people who have had the greatest impact on me. During my year as a Poggi Fellow under the tutelage of Dr. Paul Sponseller—one of the most influential mentors and best teachers I’ve ever had—I witnessed the residents’ camaraderie, support for one another, and desire to push each other to new heights. That sense of community and belonging is what truly sets Hopkins apart. There were many places where I knew I’d receive strong training, but here, I found an incredible support network that feels like family. Hopkins is home, and I’m grateful I can continue calling it that."
Myung-Jin Cha, M.D.
Undergraduate school: The University of Texas at Austin
Hometown: Seoul, Korea
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins Orthopaedics because during my research year, I experienced a culture of excellence built on mutual support and collaboration. The faculty are not only leaders in the field, but are deeply invested in teaching and helping residents grow. It’s a place where you’re challenged to rise to your potential, surrounded by people who are genuinely committed to your success. That sense of mentorship and camaraderie made it clear this was where I wanted to train."
Tony Dagher, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Duke University
Hometown: Dayton, OH
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I knew very early on in my away rotation that Hopkins was the perfect program for me. The surgical exposure was outstanding, the research infrastructure was robust, and the residents culture was phenomenal. I also really appreciated the ability to train not only at a large academic hospital, but at community hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers as well!"
Ria Jodah, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Stanford University
Hometown: Georgetown, Guyana
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "When I rotated here as a sub-intern, the residents and staff were the kind of team I wanted to be a part of—I felt supported and they embodied the comprehensive patient care I believe everyone should receive. Moreover, as someone eager to return to my country to serve, the global orthopedic opportunities here at Hopkins are unparalleled, and it allows for me to start laying that foundation from now. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to train here."
Andrew Kim, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Boston College
Hometown: Montville, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "During medical school, I had the privilege of being selected as the John P. Kostuik Spine Research fellow. This experience showed me the unparalleled research opportunities and invaluable mentorship at Johns Hopkins. Additionally, the close camaraderie among residents, the unwavering support from the department and faculty, and the exposure to a diverse range of complex cases is what makes Johns Hopkins one of the best programs in the country. I am truly honored and grateful to have the opportunity to train here, and I am excited to further contribute to the Johns Hopkins Orthopaedic Surgery family."
John "Ridge" Maxson, M.D.
Undergraduate school: University of Georgia
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "In addition to the world-class operative experience and robust academic resources, I chose to stay at Johns Hopkins for residency because I realized that what will truly define my training and the type of surgeon I become are the people I’m surrounded by every day. Faculty here are leaders in the field of orthopaedic surgery and provide enthusiastic mentorship and teaching. The camaraderie between the residents is authentic, and they have each other’s backs—that’s the kind of team I wanted to be a part of."
Henry Shu, M.D.
Undergraduate school: George Washington University
Hometown: North Potomac, MD
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I wanted to go to a residency program that considered research and education to be an integral part of clinical practice. At Johns Hopkins, the tripartite mission of setting the standard in medical education, research, and excellent clinical care is practiced on a daily basis by all of the orthopedic surgery faculty. This pursuit of excellence, and the vast number of educational and research resources available to both residents and faculty, make the academic and mentorship opportunities at Johns Hopkins unparalleled. This, combined with a supportive and collaborative culture among the faculty and residents, made me choose this residency!"
Goutham Yalla, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Pennsylvania State University
Hometown: Plainsboro, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for several reasons, but first and foremost was the people. During my rotation as a sub-intern, I saw the culture amongst residents—everyone came together and always had a team-first mentality which really resonated with me. I felt that I fit within the amazing personalities of the residents, and I also knew that the unparalleled operative, research, and educational opportunities at Johns Hopkins aligned with my goals. Overall, I knew that I would thoroughly enjoy training in this environment!"
Postgraduate Year Two (PGY-2)
Amil Agarwal, M.D.
Undergraduate school: George Washington University
Hometown: Montgomery County, MD
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Hopkins Ortho for multiple reasons. During my research year, I learned how collaborative and supportive the program is from the leadership to the residents. During my sub-internship, I saw how well the residents worked with each other and the incredible operative experience available. Lastly, there is a strong sense emphasis on education and research that I found very appealing. Ultimately, the people, the culture, and the resident experience is what drove me to choose Hopkins."
Lahin Amlani, M.D.
Undergraduate school: University of Michigan
Hometown: Plano, TX
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I choose Johns Hopkins because of clinical excellence, research, and global outreach, a combination that makes Hopkins one of the best programs in the country."
Shrey Aravindan, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Rutgers University
Hometown: Springfield, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for many reasons, primarily for the people, the mentorship, and the comprehensive clinical exposure. As a sub-intern, I saw firsthand the cohesiveness among the residents and how they looked out for each other. I also appreciated the dedication to teaching from the faculty as they are committed to making the residents better each and every day. Finally, there is a robust clinical volume that allows residents to become very comfortable in managing any orthopaedic patient."
Itai Bezherano, M.D.
Undergraduate school: University at Buffalo (SUNY)
Hometown: Even Yehuda, Israel
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "After rotating on the trauma service as a visiting medical student I was sold on all this program has to offer. The autonomy given to senior residents, along with the culture of teaching between classes, makes it an excellent place to train and grow. I truly think this is a gem of a program and look forward to carrying forward its traditions in years to come."
Kristen Manto, M.D., Ph.D.
Undergraduate school: Johns Hopkins University
Hometown: Fairless Hills, PA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for its legacy of excellence, faculty’s commitment to mentorship, breadth of unparalleled research opportunities, and outstanding surgical training in all the subspecialties. On my interview day, I was amazed by the resident comradery and how welcome each faculty member and resident made me feel. This close-knit community within a world-class institution was incredibly appealing and it is a place where I feel inspired every day. Lastly, Hopkins is a program where you can truly tailor your experience to your personal career aspirations and passions, molding residents into the next generation of pioneers in the field."
Alexandra Seidenstein, M.D.
Undergraduate school: George Washington University & University of Victoria
Hometown: Verona, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "There were many reasons I was drawn to Johns Hopkins for my residency. The institution's rich history, academic excellence, inspiring leadership, and wealth of research opportunities highlighted its prestigious standing in the medical field. However, it was my experience during my away rotation that truly sealed my decision. Witnessing the profound bond and exceptional kindness among the residents, coupled with their spirit of collaboration and mutual support in a medically-focused environment, was deeply impactful. This blend of Johns Hopkins' institutional prestige and a supportive, collaborative atmosphere solidified my choice, offering the perfect setting to pursue my medical career and contribute to the field of healthcare."
Yong "Dan" Shen, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Harvard College
Hometown: Hangzhou, China; Toronto, Canada
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Hopkins for the people. The Hopkins interview was my favorite interview during applications, and I felt like I found people who cared about me and who could become my chosen family away from home."
Postgraduate Year Three (PGY-3)
Daniel Badin, M.D.
Medical School: American University of Beirut School of Medicine
Undergraduate School: American University of Beirut
Hometown: Damascus, Syria; Beirut, Lebanon
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "After having worked with the residents and faculty at Johns Hopkins, I knew that this is where I wanted to be. The ability to learn from world-class experts, educators, and researchers in Orthopaedic Surgery is priceless, and the program offers endless resources and opportunities for growth. I am continuously learning from and being inspired by the very best residents, colleagues, and mentors every day!"
Indeevar Beeram, M.D.
Medical school: Boston University School of Medicine
Undergraduate school: Boston University
Hometown: Green Brook, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins Orthopedic Residency Program for several compelling reasons. The diverse range and complexity of cases seen at Johns Hopkins provides an ideal learning environment to hone skills in Orthopaedic Surgery. The program's distinguished faculty members are also pioneers in the field, offering invaluable mentorship and research opportunities. Lastly, the supportive environment fostered by the residents and program leadership provides an empowering atmosphere for personal and professional growth."
Mark Lantieri, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Cornell University
Hometown: Drexel Hill, PA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for my orthopaedic surgery training for several reasons. During my time as a sub-intern, it was abundantly clear that the residents are not only incredibly talented, but down to earth, supportive, and great people both inside and outside the hospital. The faculty are true leaders in their fields, care deeply about resident development, and push you to advance operatively and clinically every day. Finally, the academic opportunities that a place like Johns Hopkins can provide are unparalleled."
Frederick Mun, M.D.
Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine
Undergraduate School: Carnegie Mellon University
Hometown: Iowa City, IA; Seoul, South Korea
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "Hopkins has an incredibly supportive culture due to the phenomenal residents, faculty and leadership. I was fortunate to spend a year here as a Poggi Fellow, which showed me how special this program is. There are endless opportunities and resources here. I can't imagine myself anywhere else, and I'm looking forward to the spending the next five years with some of my closest friends and mentors!"
Sudarsan Murali, M.D., M.B.A.
Undergraduate school: The University of Alabama
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "Going into the process I knew my most important desire was to be at a program with a great culture and camaraderie amongst the residents and faculty. In addition, clinically, I knew that I was looking for a program that offered a mix of high volume in the OR and in the ED but also focused on education, quality, and research. After learning about Hopkins and meeting the residents/faculty, it was clear that this was an incredibly special place that really provides a unique educational opportunity. Most importantly, Hopkins is a tight knit group of co-residents and faculty that are willing to support each other inside and outside of the hospital. Being at John’s Hopkins in Baltimore is also an extremely special opportunity to take care of a diverse patient population while support the local and global community. It is such a privilege to be at this program with my co-residents and my mentors!"
Tyler Nsekpong, M.D.
Undergraduate school: Tarleton State University
Hometown: Flower Mound, TX
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "My sub-internship experience showed me how unique it is to train at Johns Hopkins. The atmosphere is filled with a team-oriented mindset and a culture dedicated to patient-centered care. The diverse operative experience along with the opportunity to receive outstanding resident education and mentorship is incredible. I am continually impressed with the humility shown amongst the individuals and leadership within this program, which speaks to the amazing camaraderie."
Postgraduate Year Four (PGY-4)
Jean Fleuriscar, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Sophie Davis/ City College
Hometown: Hempstead, NY
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "After my sub-internship at Johns Hopkins, I understood that it is a very special place. Operative experience is world class, the camaraderie among residents is second to none, and faculty is heavily invested in resident education and mentorship. Lastly, the plethora of research opportunities are incredible."
Yesha Parekh, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Rutgers University
Hometown: Ringoes, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for a few reasons: the exposure to a wide breadth of pathology, dedication to providing patient-centered care, and the culture of the program. I am extremely grateful that I had the opportunity to experience the program during my sub-internship. The camaraderie that exists amongst the residents and faculty is truly unparalleled. Everyone is committed not only to providing excellent patient care but also to making each other a better physician and person."
Nicholas Siegel, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Johns Hopkins University
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "Having had the privilege of working with and learning from the residents and faculty at Hopkins during medical school, I knew that the program here excels in the traits I value most: a strong commitment to education inside and outside the OR, academic support and training, and above all interpersonal relationships that show a true camaraderie between residents and mentorship from faculty."
Sukrit Suresh, M.B.B.S.
Undergraduate School: The Sixth Form College, Colchester
Hometown: Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "People, Dr Sponseller, Dr LaPorte and Dr Ficke in particular, guided me over the years in pursuing my dreams and ambitions of orthopedics in the U.S. and never gave up on me. Each and every resident looked after me like one of their own during my time here, and it’s at Hopkins where I learned the real meaning of being part of family during residency. The whole culture here is very much tuned towards teaching and training residents, and it’s the residents and attendings who really do make this program so unique and special. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to train at a place like this, to train in what I believe to be the best job in the world, and for being given the chance to set up my future and family life here with my now fiancé, and call this place home."
Krishna Vangipuram-Suresh, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Saint Louis University
Hometown: Cupertino, CA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I was absolutely thrilled when I received the opportunity to pursue my orthopaedic residency training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. After spending a year in the pediatric orthopaedics department as a POGGI research fellow, I knew that Johns Hopkins would provide me with the combination of extensive clinical exposure and rigorous research necessary for surgeons in training to become future leaders in the field. More importantly, I am challenged to push my skills as a resident by my teachers and peers, while being in an extremely supportive and collaborative environment. I am honored to be a part of the Hopkins Orthopaedic family."
Sean Williams, M.D.
Undergraduate School: University of California Riverside
Hometown: Riverside, CA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for orthopedic surgery training due to its renowned reputation as a leader in medical education and research. The institution offers state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse range of clinical experiences that are crucial for comprehensive training in orthopedics. Johns Hopkins' esteemed faculty members are pioneers in the field, providing mentorship and guidance that will significantly contribute to my professional development. Moreover, the collaborative and innovative environment at Johns Hopkins aligns perfectly with my career goals of excelling in orthopedic surgery."
Postgraduate Year Five (PGY-5)
Henry "Hank" Fox, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Brown University
Hometown: Mercer Island, WA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for the unique zeal that JHU residents and attendings have for practicing orthopaedics and pursuing excellence in teaching and research. That collective enthusiasm is executed with a “hard work, team-first” mentality, and the residents have fun together outside of the hospital. I’m thrilled to join an engaging community that offers unparalleled surgical training alongside a wealth of research and mentorship opportunities."
Whitney Kagabo, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Johns Hopkins University
Hometown: Ottawa, Canada
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Hopkins for a multitude of reasons. The top 3 would be the camaraderie between the residents, the ability to serve a diverse population with complex needs, and the ability to do a T32 year which would allow me to peruse my interest in international surgical care. Having started residency now I am even more impressed by everyone’s kindness and the immense educational and surgical opportunities."
Shyam Kurian, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Rutgers University
Hometown: Hillsborough, NJ
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Hopkins ortho because of their unrivaled dedication to resident education. This program produces leaders in the field of orthopaedics, and after meeting the residents and faculty during interview day, I knew this was where I wanted to train. The cohesiveness of the residents throughout all classes creates an excellent support system, and the opportunities to collaborate with peers and innovate at Hopkins is endless."
Aoife MacMahon, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Columbia University
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I chose Johns Hopkins for several reasons. Foremost was the tight-knit community of residents and faculty dedicated to teaching and mentorship, creating a family-like environment. Moreover, the combination of strong and diverse operative experience, ability to work with leaders in the field, and unique opportunities for global outreach and research make it an outstanding place to train, with unparalleled opportunities for learning and patient care."
Niyathi Prasad, M.D.
Undergraduate School: Emory University
Hometown: Augusta, GA
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "I was fortunate enough to be selected for the Poggi research fellowship at Johns Hopkins during medical school. During my research year, I was able to witness first-hand the amazing mentorship, cutting-edge research, and camaraderie between everyone within the department. Coming back here for residency was an easy decision as I knew I would develop into orthopedic surgeon within a very supportive training environment with unparalleled opportunities and an incredible sense of family!"
Ryley Zastrow, M.D.
Undergraduate School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hometown: Rhinelander, WI
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: "Johns Hopkins was my top choice for several reasons. I was immediately drawn to the tight-knit “family” of orthopaedic residents as well as their camaraderie and team mentality. Additionally, with the program’s history of clinical innovation, excellence in patient care, and strong operative experience, I knew I would receive an unparalleled and well-rounded orthopaedic education. Finally, the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and learn from leaders in the field solidified my choice. I am thrilled and honored to continue my training here!"