Fellowship Aachen

Department of Orthopaedic Trauma
Uniklinik RWTH Aachen
Aachen, Germany

General Information
The city of Aachen borders on Belgium and the Netherlands, and is therefore the most western city in Germany. Some of its distinguishing features are its rich history, picturesque landscape, and welcoming citizens. Historically, the town was established as a spa city by the Romans in the county of North Rhine-Westphalia, but is world-renowned as the residence and resting place of Charlemagne as well as the coronation site of many of Germany's Kings. Aachen’s charming city center is lined with cobblestone streets, superb shops, and quaint cafes that can be found on every corner. Local dining options include traditional German cuisine as well as international restaurants. The local area is known for its “Kölsch”, a locally brewed beer, and “Printen”, a sweet type of bread similar to gingerbread.

The public transportation system is well organized and regional trains allow for easy day trips to cities such as Cologne, Liège, Brussels, Bruges, and Maastricht. Intercity Express trains and the high-speed Thalys facilitate fast and convenient travel to further destinations within Germany and other European countries. Aachen is a city with all the comforts of home.


University Trauma
The Department of Orthopaedic Trauma of Uniklinik RWTH Aachen is led by Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Frank Hildebrand who has been recognized for his expertise and care of trauma patients and specifically for his research about new treatmenr concepts for severely injured patients. His department is supported by six full-time trauma consultants and trainees, and fourteen resident physicians. Consultants, in addition to their excellent general trauma care expertise, have areas of concentrated specialties.

  • Prof. Dr. med. Kobbe, spine and pelvis / acetabulum
  • Priv.-Doz. Dr. med. Knobe, foot and ankle
  • Drs. Hofman, sports traumatology
  • Dr. med. Lichte, septic surgery
  • Dr. med. Delbrück, orthopaedic trauma in children, complex bone deformities
  • Dr. med. Pishnamaz, spine
  • Dr. med. Alabdurahman, pelvis and acetabulum

Patients‘ injuries, current x-rays and lab results are reviewed every morning and afternoon. The trauma staff is always approachable and available for questions or concerns. As a fellow, there are opportunities open for clinical care and research, including hands-on patient care as well as the option to scrub up and assist with surgical treatments. 2-3 full-time surgical wards are dedicated to the trauma service every day. Patients are attended to by the trauma department in several sections of the hospital, including the inpatient trauma ICU, transitional care floor, and the step-down floors. Outpatient cases are also scheduled through the hospital’s appointment system.

Accommodations
An appointed fellowship coordinator will assist you with the task of finding suitable accommodation within Aachen prior to your arrival. Given early notification, accommodation on the campus can be arranged with rooms ranging from single housing to family residences. These apartments are reasonably priced and well equipped, while being within walking distance of the hospital.

Requirements
Before arriving in Aachen, the following requirements should be considered:

  • All visa requirements and regulations must be cleared with the German embassy.
  • Sponsoring has to be provided, either by an official funding agency (e.g. AO fellowship) or with personal funds. Your funds must cover daily living expenses and health insurance.
  • Although the primary language at the hospital is German, many patients speak English. German language skills are therefore beneficial. For conversations with colleagues, fluent English is sufficient.
  • Prior to the start of your residency in the Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, an in-house physical exam must be completed to clear any health risk and ensure that all vaccinations are up to date.
  • The fellowship program is limited to experienced specialists with a main focus on polytrauma, pelvic and spine surgery.

To work as a resident in Germany, you may have to obtain a work permit from the German government.

Fellowship Coordinator
Dr.med. Hatem Alabdulrahman
Department of Orthopaedic Trauma
University Hospital Aachen
Pauwelsstr 30
52074 Aachen
Germany
hrahmanukaachende

Welcome in Aachen!

Univ.-Professor Dr. med. Frank Hildebrand