Joseph Thomas Patterson

Joseph Thomas Patterson, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. He specializes in orthopaedic trauma surgery, limb lengthening, deformity correction, and fracture care, with a focus on pelvic and acetabular injuries. His research emphasizes patient-centered comparative effectiveness studies, particularly in musculoskeletal care, and he leads multicenter clinical trials addressing hip and pelvic fracture treatments. Dr. Patterson’s work integrates registry and administrative data to improve clinical decision-making, supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, AO North America, and others. He has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the AO Trauma Early Career Development Award and multiple Young Investigator Awards.

His research group explores outcomes like fracture management strategies, surgical techniques, and patient preferences. Recent publications highlight advancements in pelvic fracture fixation, acetabular injury outcomes, and disparities in trauma care access. Dr. Patterson’s clinical expertise includes managing complex fractures, limb salvage, and innovative techniques like the “Toe Rodeo” for foot and midfoot injuries. He actively contributes to the field through peer-reviewed articles, educational initiatives, and leadership in research consortia such as METRC and COIRI.

• Awards: AO Trauma Early Career Development Award (2022-2024), Western Orthopaedic Association Young Investigator Award (2024), and Top Doctors Rising Star (2022-2024).
• Grants: National Science Foundation, Orthopaedic Trauma Association, AO North America, and others.
• Labs/Teams: Active clinical research group leveraging registry data; collaborates with METRC and COIRI consortia.