Bryan Vopat

Bryan Vopat, MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center School of Medicine. He serves as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine with particular expertise in foot and ankle surgery, knee injuries, and shoulder conditions. Dr. Vopat is the team physician for the Kansas City Chiefs and provides orthopedic care for University of Kansas athletics and multiple Kansas City area high schools.

Dr. Vopat's research interests focus on sports medicine, with particular emphasis on ankle instability, effects of injuries on NFL players' careers, ACL reconstruction, psychological impact on sports performance, and cartilage restoration in the knee and ankle. His clinical approach centers on safely returning patients to sport after injuries and studying sex differences to improve female outcomes. He views the knee, ankle, and foot as an integrated unit, recognizing that athletes are constantly on their feet and require comprehensive lower body understanding for optimal care.

His publication record demonstrates strong focus on return-to-sport protocols, ankle ligament reconstruction, sex-specific differences in outcomes, and innovative treatments like blood flow restriction therapy. Dr. Vopat has published over 100 articles and presented nationally over 220 times, establishing a clinical research program that advances orthopedic care at The University of Kansas Health System.

Dr. Vopat serves on several national committees and is actively involved with professional organizations including the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He directs the University of Kansas Sports Symposium and contributes to ongoing research grants focused on improving orthopedic care.