Kathryn M. O'Connor, MD, MSPT, has joined the Foot and Ankle Division as an assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery. Dr. O'Connor earned her MD at the University of Rochester (New York), performed her residency at Mt. Sinai Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at Washington University in St Louis.
She is an orthopaedic surgeon with specialized training in foot and ankle surgery. Before becoming a physician, she worked as a physical therapist. Her focus has always been on assisting patients in returning to the activities they enjoy. This entails understanding each patient's current limitations and future goals to develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs. I believe in optimizing non-surgical options using various modalities while ensuring patients comprehend their surgical options for when or if the time is appropriate to pursue that route.
In her practice, she addresses a wide range of foot and ankle issues, including bunions, Achilles injuries, fractures, and complex foot reconstruction, with a particular emphasis on acute foot and ankle trauma and revision surgery. She appreciates Duke Health's ability to collaborate with other surgeons, therapists, and physicians to devise a comprehensive plan that suits each patient.
Welcome, Dr. O'Connor!
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Q&A with Dr. O'Connor
Q: What brings you joy personally?
A: I find joy in the simple act of moving. Whether it's running, biking, or skiing, these activities keep me fit and provide a peaceful escape from the daily stresses of life.
Q: What brings you joy, professionally?
A: With the practice of orthopaedics, I enjoy getting people back to doing what they love doing.
Q: What excites you about this role at Duke?
A: The ability to continue to grow as a physician. Having conferences, labs, and collaborations with the orthopaedic divisions allows for continued learning and improvement in tackling each patient's problem.
Q: Your hometown – where are you from?
A: I grew up in Brookfield, CT., but my family has had a house in the Outer Banks since I was 12, so I have spent a lot of time at the NC beaches throughout my life
Q: Where do you see your area of orthopaedics going within the next five to ten years?
In the next five to ten years, I envision a significant shift towards more minimally invasive procedures and the use of custom implants and jigs. This exciting future of orthopaedics promises improved patient outcomes and a more personalized approach to treatment.