Duke Orthopaedic Surgery is pleased to introduce Dr. Kathleen (“Katie”) Rickert, MD, FAAOS, who has joined the department as an Associate Clinical Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery in the Pediatric Orthopaedic division.
A board-certified pediatric orthopaedic surgeon with deep expertise in trauma, lower extremity deformity, leg length discrepancy, skeletal dysplasia, neuromuscular conditions, and complex congenital abnormalities, Dr. Rickert brings a remarkable blend of clinical skill, academic productivity, and compassionate patient-centered care. Her arrival marks a homecoming—both personally and professionally.
A Duke Return: “It Feels Like Coming Home”
Dr. Rickert’s connection to Duke runs deep. She completed her orthopaedic surgery residency at Duke University Medical Center from 2011 to 2016, followed by a pediatric orthopaedic fellowship at Rady Children’s Hospital.
After nearly a decade of leadership and practice at major children’s hospitals—including faculty roles at the University of San Diego / Rady Children's Hospital and Central Texas Pediatric Orthopedics / UT Austin—she returns with extensive clinical, surgical, and educational experience.
Reflecting on her new role, she shares:
“I’m excited to be back where I started. It feels like coming home—and I’m eager to bring the experience I’ve gained from the children’s hospitals where I have been previously.”
A Career Devoted to Children
Dr. Rickert’s clinical focus spans the full spectrum of pediatric musculoskeletal care, treating patients “from birth to skeletal maturity and beyond.” Her areas of expertise include: Pediatric orthopaedic trauma; Limb deformity and leg length discrepancy; Post‑traumatic malalignment; Neuromuscular conditions; Osteogenesis imperfecta; Myelomeningocele; Skeletal dysplasia and achondroplasia; and Rotational malalignment and foot deformities.
Her professional calling is driven by the human connections formed in the clinic and operating room: “My boys, dogs, and family bring me joy. I love wake surfing—it’s my favorite pastime. I chose this field to help children: alleviate pain, improve mobility and function, and help them live the best lives they can. And I love the hugs and high fives from my patients.”
A Nationally Recognized Contributor to Pediatric Orthopaedics
Dr. Rickert is an accomplished scholar with numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and national presentations. She has contributed significantly to multicenter research, including leadership roles within the CORTICES pediatric orthopaedic trauma consortium, advancing evidence-based care for musculoskeletal infections and traumatic injuries.
Her publication record includes work in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, American Journal of Sports Medicine, JBJS Essential Surgical Techniques, PLOS One, and Foot & Ankle International.
She has also authored book chapters in major orthopaedic references, including Operative Techniques in Orthopaedic Surgery and AAOS OKU texts.
Her leadership extends internationally, reflected in her service with global outreach organizations such as Kids First (Mexico) and mission trips to Ecuador and Guatemala, where she has provided orthopedic care in underserved regions.
Shaping the Future of Pediatric Orthopaedics
As a clinician‑educator, Dr. Rickert has mentored over 60 residents, 28 fellows, and numerous medical students. She has directed conferences, served as an assistant residency coordinator, and developed new educational curricula in pediatric skeletal deformity.
"Looking ahead, she sees tremendous opportunity for innovation: “We will continue to evolve with new technology, software, and collaboration to bring the best care to patients.”
Her vision aligns seamlessly with Duke’s commitment to advancing pediatric surgical care through interdisciplinary teamwork, evidence-based practice, and cutting-edge technology.
Rooted in the Southwest, Growing at Duke
Originally from Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Rickert completed her BS and MD at the University of Arizona, earning early academic honors, before beginning her surgical training at Duke.
Her ties to academic excellence include induction into Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) and fellowship in the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS).
Welcome home, Dr. Rickert!