Our Practice
Southwest Shoulder & Orthopaedics’ mission is to provide high-quality care & expertise to El Paso and the surrounding areas. Using state-of-the-art technology and techniques to care for patients with simple and complex injuries to the upper extremities. The number one goal is to restore function and relieve pain with the hope that surgery is used as a last resort. Please reach out to us today to make an appointment with Dr. Kelly Fitzpatrick.
University Medical Center of El Paso
Outpatient Orthopedics
About Dr. Kelly Fitzpatrick
Background
Meet Kelly Fitzpatrick, a distinguished orthopedic surgeon with a remarkable career dedicated to serving our nation’s heroes. Graduating with honors and as a distinguished military graduate from the Corps of Cadets at Virginia Tech in 2003, Dr. Fitzpatrick pursued his passion for medicine at the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2008. His commitment to excellence led him to complete his residency training at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI, in 2013, followed by the prestigious Baylor University/WB Carrell Clinic Shoulder & Elbow Fellowship in Dallas, TX, in 2014.
Since 2014, Kelly Fitzpatrick has performed over 6,000 inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures, establishing himself as one of the highest-volume orthopedic surgeons in the Army. His unwavering dedication to providing top-quality care has been demonstrated through his service on three combat deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and with the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). His commitment extends to his extensive involvement in serving at multiple Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) nationwide, showcasing his diverse and invaluable experiences.
Research & Awards
Dr. Fitzpatrick’s impact extends beyond his surgical expertise, as evidenced by his extensive academic portfolio. He is a respected author of multiple peer-reviewed journal publications and has presented or co-presented national podium presentations. Additionally, he has contributed as an invited author to multiple orthopedic book chapters and serves as a peer reviewer for high-impact factor orthopedic journals. Fitzpatrick’s influence also extends to his role as an Assistant Professor at two medical schools, reflecting his commitment to shaping the next generation of medical professionals.
His exemplary performance as an orthopedic surgeon and military officer over 16 years of active duty has earned him numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4), and the Army Commendation Medal with C-device. Fitzpatrick’s dedication to service and excellence has impacted the individuals he has treated and the surgeons he has trained in the Army. As Dr. Fitzpatrick continues his journey as an orthopedic surgeon, he brings with him a wealth of expertise, compassion, and a relentless commitment to providing the highest standard of care to his patients.
Philosophy
Dr. Fitzpatrick treats patients the way he would treat his own family. He would like the patient to make a joint decision with him into what treatment path they choose. He believes most shoulders and orthopaedic injuries in general can be rehabilitated with the correct guidance without surgery but when it does need surgery he utilizes the most up to date techniques available and as minimally invasive as possible.
Dr. Fitzpatrick will continue to provide his expertise to El Paso for years to come. During his time off, Dr. Fitzpatrick enjoys spending time with his family including his beautiful wife and 4 children. They enjoy traveling, sports and going to Disney.