Program Overview
Train as an Orthopedic & Trauma Medicine professional capable of supporting fracture management, emergency trauma care, splinting/casting, and rehabilitation pathways. This KNEC-aligned diploma combines strong musculoskeletal theory with intensive practical rotations in clinics, theatres, and emergency units.
Duration & Study Pattern
- Duration: 3 academic years (9 terms)
- Term format: ~12 teaching weeks + 2 assessment weeks
- Weekly rhythm: Mon–Thu theory/practicals • Fri/Sat clinical rotations (as rostered)
Learning Methods
- Lectures, case reviews, simulation labs
- Clinical attachments: fracture clinic, theatre, emergency/trauma bay
- Workshops on X-ray interpretation and documentation
- Interdisciplinary drills and scenario-based training
Indicative Modules
Year 1
- Musculoskeletal Anatomy & Physiology
- Basics of Trauma Care & Patient Assessment (ATLS concepts)
- Principles of Fractures, Dislocations & Soft Tissue Injuries
- Infection Prevention & Control; Wound Care
- Radiography for Orthopedics: Positioning & Image Basics
Year 2
- Orthopedic Pathology (Bone & Joint)
- Plaster & Cast Application: POP, Fiberglass, Slabs & Splints
- Reduction Techniques & Traction Principles
- Orthotics & Assistive Devices; Gait Training
- Pain Management; Pharmacology Essentials
Year 3
- Emergency & Disaster Preparedness (Trauma Systems)
- Sports Injuries & Rehabilitation Coordination
- Pediatric & Geriatric Orthopedics (considerations)
- Leadership, Ethics & Professional Practice
- Clinical Practicum & Capstone Project
Key Skills & Procedures
- Primary survey (ABCDE), pain scoring, neurovascular checks
- Application/removal of casts, slabs, splints; traction setup & care
- Reduction assistance, sterile technique, theatre support
- Wound dressing, suturing assistance, IPC & documentation
- X-ray orientation: recognizing common fracture patterns
- Rehabilitation coordination with Physio/OT; home care education
Clinical Placements
- Orthopedic/Fracture Clinics & Plaster Rooms
- Operating Theatres (orthopedic lists) & Day Surgery Units
- Emergency/Trauma Units and Minor Injury Units
- Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Departments
Assessment (KNEC)
- Coursework (40%) — CATs, OSCEs/skills checklists, case logs, clinical evaluations
- Final Exams (60%) — KNEC written papers + practical assessments
- Logbook: required competencies signed by clinical supervisors
Entry Requirements
- KCSE Mean Grade C- (Minus) or higher
- C- in English/Kiswahili and Biology
- D+ in one of: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Geography, Agriculture, or Business
Applicants with relevant healthcare certificates/experience may be considered individually.
Frequently Asked
What roles can I work in?
Orthopedic technician/assistant, plaster technician, trauma clinic assistant, rehabilitation support in hospitals and clinics.
Will I learn X-ray interpretation?
Yes—at a foundational level to support clinical decisions; advanced radiology is referred to specialists.
Do you arrange placements?
Yes. VMTC coordinates rotations with approved facilities and provides logbook supervision.
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