Kelsey Bonilla

Kelsey Bonilla, MD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthosurgery at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, based in Fresno. She is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in orthopaedic trauma with expertise in tendon mechanics and biomechanics, actively contributing to both clinical practice and research in musculoskeletal medicine.

Dr. Bonilla's educational background includes:

• Bachelor's degree in Cell Biology/Neuroscience and Spanish from Rutgers University
• Doctor of Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania
• Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at the University of Pennsylvania
• Orthopaedic Trauma Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles

Dr. Bonilla's research program focuses on orthopaedic trauma, tendon mechanics, and biomechanics. Her work examines the structural and mechanical properties of tendons, particularly how they respond to injury, healing processes, and external factors like exercise. She has investigated sex differences in tendon properties and the role of extracellular matrix components like biglycan and decorin in maintaining tendon integrity. Her research bridges basic science with clinical orthopaedic applications, utilizing both animal models and clinical studies to advance understanding of musculoskeletal injuries and healing mechanisms.

Analysis of Dr. Bonilla's publication history reveals a clear evolution from early neuroscience research to focused orthopaedic investigations. Her recent work (2017-2025) demonstrates a strong concentration on tendon biomechanics, trauma surgery, and diversity issues in orthopaedic training. The research spans from molecular investigations of tendon composition to population-level studies examining representation in orthopaedic surgery, reflecting both laboratory and clinical expertise.

Dr. Bonilla maintains active membership in several professional organizations:

• Orthopaedic Trauma Association
• AO Trauma North America
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
• Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society

Dr. Bonilla has extensive mentoring experience developed through her residency program's emphasis on near-peer teaching. Her mentoring encompasses clinical guidance, didactic teaching sessions, procedural skill development in emergency and operating room settings, and career advice for residents interested in orthopaedic trauma fellowships. She maintains both a California State Medical License and a California Fluoroscopy Technician License, supporting comprehensive clinical practice in orthopaedic trauma care.