Meelan N. Patel, MD

As an orthopedic traumatologist at NYU Langone Orthopedic Associates—Garden City, I manage all levels of orthopedic trauma, from simple fractures to high-speed, high-energy injuries involving multiple extremities.

My specialties include treating patients with fractures of the pelvis and acetabulum (hip socket), periarticular fractures (those involving joints), and all fractures of both the upper and lower extremities, in many cases using minimally invasive techniques. My expertise also includes managing late complications of fractures, including nonunions (bones that have failed to heal), malunions (bones that have healed incorrectly), post-traumatic infections, post-traumatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis of the hip.

Growing up, I was always intrigued by how things work. Whether it was dismantling gadgets or observing how the human body responds to injury, my curiosity drove me to explore various fields. In high school, I volunteered in the operating room at a local hospital, where I witnessed the profound impact of surgeons on patients’ lives. In college, I worked as an emergency medical technician and became drawn to patients with traumatic injuries. During medical school, I was fascinated by the complexity of the musculoskeletal system and how it can be repaired and restored. These experiences ignited my passion for orthopedic surgery, where I could combine my interests in biology, mechanics, and technology.

My residency provided me with rigorous training in all aspects of orthopedic surgery, but orthopedic trauma stood out for its dynamic nature. I was inspired by the challenge of treating patients with complex fractures and the ability to use cutting-edge innovations to restore patients’ mobility and quality of life.

The adrenaline of emergency situations, coupled with the potential for long-term patient relationships, reinforced my commitment to this specialty, in which quick decision-making and precise technical skills are essential. I then entered an orthopedic trauma fellowship, training under some of the world’s finest orthopedic trauma specialists at a high-volume trauma center. I also completed additional fellowship training in hip arthroplasty, including primary, revision, and partial hip replacement.

Being a surgeon in the ever-evolving field of orthopedics continues to be an honor, allowing me to merge my passions for medicine and technology in a way that significantly impacts patients’ lives. I am dedicated to providing immediate care for patients with traumatic injuries, often in critical situations. This role requires not only technical expertise but also compassion, as I support patients and their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

I am especially fortunate to play a major role in education, training residents to be the next generation of orthopedic surgeons and speaking at national conferences where the newest information is shared. These privileges have led to my commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation, continuously advancing my skills and knowledge to ensure that I can continue to provide exceptional orthopedic care.