Thomas F. Higgins,
MD
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Dr. Thomas Higgins holds the Richard L. Stimson Presidential Endowed Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery and is a Professor and the Chief of Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery at the University of Utah. His medical degree was completed at Brown University School of Medicine. His orthopaedic training was at Yale University, with post-graduate fellowship in orthopaedic trauma at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. He has been on the faculty at University of Utah since 2000.
Dr. Higgins clinical expertise is in the treatment of complex intra-articular injuries, pelvic and acetabular trauma, and musculoskeletal care in the setting of polytrauma. His elective practice focuses on the deformity correction, malunions, and nonunions.
The author of over fifty peer-reviewed publications and multiple book chapters, Dr. Higgins main area of research interest clinically has been on plateau fractures. He has been primary investigator or co-investigator on four OTA grants, two AO grants, and an OREF grant. His most recent research has focused on the genetics of trauma and the use of opiate analgesics in the trauma setting, and the roles of inflammatory mediators in the formation of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
In the educational sphere, Dr. Higgins is recognized nationally for his research and presentations of tibial plateau fractures. He has been active with orthopaedic education with AO North America, chairing three courses, and teaching at over thirty. Previously a member of the OTA Education Committee, he has also chaired multiple resident courses for the OTA. He has received the annual teaching award twice at the University of Utah.
He has previously served on the Orthopaedic Trauma Association Board of Directors, and was the Program Chair for the OTA Annual Meeting in 2013 and 2014. In 2009, Dr. Higgins served as the OTA/AAOS Landstuhl Visiting Scholar, and has been visiting professor at multiple universities. In 2015 he and his family spent four months serving at Kijabe Hospital in Kenya, and he maintains an interest in continuing to serve in global medicine.
When he is not working, he enjoys skiing, biking, and travelling with his wife and kids.
.
Clinical Locations
Primary Children's Hospital
801-587-7109
University Orthopaedic Center
801-587-7109
Specialties
Board Certification and Academic Information
| Academic Departments | Orthopaedics
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Professor |
| Board Certification | American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery |
Patient Rating
The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to care provider related questions on our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey.
Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.
Likelihood of recommending care provider
4.8/ 5
Care provider spoke using clear language
4.8/ 5
Care provider's explanation of condition/problem
4.7/ 5
My confidence in care provider
4.8/ 5
Care provider's effort to include me in decisions
4.6/ 5
Wait time at clinic
3.9/ 5
Time care provider spent with me
4.6/ 5
Care provider's concern for questions & worries
4.7/ 5
Care provider's friendliness and courtesy
4.8/ 5
Patient Comments
Patient comments are gathered from our Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survery and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.
UofU Patient
July 12, 2018
I absolutely love Dr Higgins!
UofU Patient
July 10, 2018
Dr. Higgin's provided a good explanation of hardware placement and discussed where I was in the healing process. He discussed my condition in terms I understood. He even showed me how to use my crutches properly as I start transitioning to walking again. Super nice person. Thank you for great care.
UofU Patient
June 21, 2018
Dr Higgins provided excellent care all around. His staff was also very helpful, professional, and kind.
UofU Patient
May 27, 2018
This was a scary time for ______, but because of the care from the staff it has been such a smooth experience to her recovery. I am grateful!
UofU Patient
May 24, 2018
This was the best clinical experience I have ever had. The HCP Dr. Higgins was fantastic. He was concerned about my condition and treated me with compassion. He did not let the fact that I don't have insurance influence his care. I have had HCP do this previously. His staff also helped in trying to get me some financial assistance. I felt like a person and not just someone paying money.
UofU Patient
May 03, 2018
He is very helpful and I feel like he does and great job
UofU Patient
May 03, 2018
The visit and treatment by Dr. Higgins and Dr. Maglic for my broken ankle could have not gone any better. They were attentive and quick to answer any questions and concerns related to the plan of care.
UofU Patient
April 16, 2018
I have been very pleased with Dr Higgins and his staff. I have felt that all my concerns are addressed in very professional and compassionate manner.
UofU Patient
April 05, 2018
Dr Higgins provided an excellent explanation of my injury and options for treatment. The visit was not rushed. All of my questions were answered. I felt very confident about the plan of treatment and understood the course of recovery. I also very much appreciate the phone discussion immediately after my injury and prior to my clinic visit.
UofU Patient
April 01, 2018
Both the PA and doctor spent the time needed to answer my questions and some followup questions.
UofU Patient
February 24, 2018
Dr. Higgins is incredible. He did an absolutely amazing job with my surgery, and his follow up is just as good. He is kind, listened to all of my concerns no matter how many questions I had, and is very thorough. I could go on forever about how grateful I am for Dr. Higgins. He is the best doctor I have ever worked with!
UofU Patient
February 08, 2018
higgins is beyond the best
UofU Patient
January 21, 2018
I had a great experience
UofU Patient
January 08, 2018
my son and I always recommend Dr. Higgins to all of our friends and family members. he is the best in skill and so very caring. We both love this man.
UofU Patient
January 06, 2018
I have and will reccomend Dr. Higgins and his staff! they are amazing!!!
UofU Patient
December 27, 2017
____________ is my foster daughter and Dr. Higgins could see how upset and concerned I was about her care and he did everything in his power to have the right solution for her broken wrist.
UofU Patient
December 23, 2017
very fine experience
UofU Patient
December 18, 2017
Both the PA and Dr Higgins were very knowledgeable and able to give me matter of fact information about my questions
UofU Patient
December 17, 2017
Amazing Doctor -- couldn't be more pleased. If I were rich I would endow this doctor with multiple presidential chairs
UofU Patient
December 08, 2017
so thankful for our referral to Dr Higgins. He kept us informed and answered every question we asked very thoroughly.
UofU Patient
November 08, 2017
I could not be more pleased with the care, attention that Dr Higgins provided me. Including post surgery, he personally called me to check on me, because a prior similar surgery 5 years ago that resulted in complications -- not anyone's fault but still he was so concerned and attentive to the current surgery and care.
UofU Patient
November 05, 2017
We had an excellent experience with Dr. Higgins
UofU Patient
October 08, 2017
I felt like he didn't listen to the worries or concerns I had about the pain and muscle spasms I was experiencing. I walked out of the office feeling like he told me to just suck it up, that he didn't care about me as an individual patient. When I expressed concerns about my current pain and muscle spasms, it felt like he ignored me. I understand the concern about addiction, so why not talk with me about alternatives to control the pain and muscle spasms? instead you just told me to essentially suck it up. I felt very ignored and brushed aside.
UofU Patient
September 24, 2017
Dr Higgins genuinely feels like he is as frustrated as I am about my breaks not healing. he seems to understand that I want to know why I'm not healing. Dr Higgins explained the next surgery, then stated we should check blood work and get a CT scan before proceeding. I understand that I do need surgery but I'm much more calm knowing he did everything he could to ease my anxiety.
UofU Patient
September 13, 2017
He seems a little cold and distant
UofU Patient
September 12, 2017
Dr. Higgins is very kind and courteous. We appreciate his expertise and care for our family very much.
UofU Patient
September 03, 2017
Excellent care. Thank you very much. Amazing that I am walking and healing.
UofU Patient
August 29, 2017
Great care that was facilitated by my medical team.
UofU Patient
August 29, 2017
I think he's a great surgeon. Nuff said
UofU Patient
August 22, 2017
Sandy Johnson, PA and Thomas Higgins, MD are top tier!
UofU Patient
July 01, 2017
excellent. Dr. Higgins went above and beyond to answer questions and concerns. He was very specific about what is happening regarding my healing process and what is needing to continue to heal most effectively.
UofU Patient
June 18, 2017
great provider experience
UofU Patient
June 09, 2017
Both PA and Dr. Higgins very informative.
UofU Patient
June 08, 2017
Since I was at the clinic because my other care providers had given up on my treatments and were looking for some other means of assisting me, I had prepared myself for the same response.."there is nothing we can do"...but that doctor did not say those words, and though I know there is little hope of grand improvement...there is hope, That is the most I have had in 5 years. I am grateful for a small hope.
UofU Patient
June 03, 2017
AMAZING !!!
UofU Patient
May 02, 2017
Dr. Higgins made sure I explained the pain I was experiencing and listened thoroughly. I sincerely appreciate his time and attention.
UofU Patient
April 24, 2017
good
UofU Patient
April 14, 2017
Transitioning to a new doctor due to my original physician leaving UofU. It is hard to judge the full level of care, but it seems good at this time.
UofU Patient
April 12, 2017
Dr. Higgins and Sandy PA were both very very kind and concerned for us. Also go to see Resident King ( spelling is wrong by close), who was wonderful during our hospital stay in Sept.
UofU Patient
March 01, 2017
Dr. Higgins is superb in every way!! We appreciate his exceptional communication skills, his extraordinary knowledge and his delightful sense of humor!
UofU Patient
February 28, 2017
I have always felt that Dr. Higgins has listened to me and explained whatever I am dealing with and my options moving forward. After a discussion on options, I feel that I have had the information to proceed. Dr. Higgins has never appeared rushed or too busy for me and I have liked being able to see my note soon after my visit with him in My Chart.
UofU Patient
February 25, 2017
I am very impressed with Dr. Higgins!very thorough and caring.
UofU Patient
February 19, 2017
I would recommend Dr jiggens but not the ortho center
UofU Patient
February 19, 2017
I may have been his last patient of the day but he really seemed irritated that I was there and asking the questions I was asking.
UofU Patient
February 19, 2017
Never explained the likelihood of lasting effect of my injury. My original x-ray showed mild clavicular overlap and I was never provided with an explanation for the lasting affects of laving that untreated and to heal on its own.
UofU Patient
February 04, 2017
Dr Higgins is courteous, listened to my concern and explained the recovery of my type of break. Thank you for taking the time.
UofU Patient
January 22, 2017
Dr. Higgins is exceptional in all ways!!
UofU Patient
January 08, 2017
Dr. Higgins is outstanding in all ways! He is so personable, so knowledgeable and so helpfu!!
UofU Patient
January 08, 2017
Dr. Higgins is fantastic!!
UofU Patient
January 08, 2017
Dr. Higgins spends the time needed for me to understand issues and problems and then explains options that are available to treat and deal with the problems.
UofU Patient
December 27, 2016
A very personable surgeon who described everything he did during the actual procedure in words I understood.
UofU Patient
December 22, 2016
I am excited! they said they can help me ...wow I may be able to walk again. .
UofU Patient
December 19, 2016
Dr. Higgins reputation of being one of the best in the country for reconstructive trauma ankle surgery is valid. His surgical incisions healed so beautifully, his knowledge of best practices for recovery and hardware removal and his ability to communicate in a respectful and clear way was evident and his care was reassuring and comforting. I cannot recommend him more highly
UofU Patient
December 17, 2016
The doctor was going to call me back, if I didn't hear from him by Friday I was to call the office and talk to Scott. I called back in the morning first thing then again before closing. I was not able to talk with the doctor or Scott. Neither one called me back as promised.
UofU Patient
December 14, 2016
Dr. Higgins is so knowledgeable, has a wonderful personality and was superb in all ways!!!
UofU Patient
December 14, 2016
Dr. Higgins is exceptional!!
UofU Patient
December 05, 2016
Dr Tom answered almost all my questions,enjoyed my visit.
UofU Patient
December 02, 2016
Best Dr. experience I've ever had.
UofU Patient
November 28, 2016
The resident and Dr Higgins were caring and helpful. They took time with me which was much appreciated since this was my first broken bone and first visit to this clinic. Thank you for the good care.
UofU Patient
November 22, 2016
I have been very impressed with the responsiveness of Dr Higgins and his team throughout my whole recovery process.
UofU Patient
November 19, 2016
Everything was very good, you guys are all awesome. Best experience ever in a hospital or clinic
UofU Patient
November 11, 2016
I was very impresses with all staff. The Doctor took time to lesson and talk to my 9 year old son, whom was being seen, even though what my son wanted to show him had nothing to do with why we were there.
UofU Patient
November 03, 2016
Everything went well
UofU Patient
October 18, 2016
I had some concerns, we talked about it, he asked me how he might help me, all very helpful.
UofU Patient
October 17, 2016
Outsatnding service. Very impressive
UofU Patient
October 17, 2016
Dr. Higgins was patient with all of my questions, answered all of my concerns and was professional and caring.
UofU Patient
September 23, 2016
Dr. Higgins is terrific!!
UofU Patient
September 13, 2016
Dr. Higgins was professional, caring, interactive and reassuring taking his time to answer all of my questions and concerns.
UofU Patient
September 10, 2016
I feel very fortunate that I have had Dr Higgins taking care of me. I could not have found anyone more competent.
UofU Patient
September 04, 2016
Dr. Higgins, The Boss, was good!
UofU Patient
August 13, 2016
I need more from provider.
UofU Patient
July 31, 2016
loved the dr
UofU Patient
July 25, 2016
I feel lucky to be dealing with Dr. Higgins and his staff.
UofU Patient
July 24, 2016
The Resident (Lucas), the Med Student (Andrew), and Doctor Higgins were all PERFECT in every way.
UofU Patient
July 17, 2016
Best doctor I ever had!
UofU Patient
July 16, 2016
I would definitely recommend Doctor Higgins to friends and family. I felt he was very good and experienced at what he does. Total confidence in his care.
UofU Patient
July 12, 2016
I;m a nurse so we didn't have a problem communicating
UofU Patient
June 30, 2016
Dr Higgins was very concerned with my husband problems. And tried to read ur us that he could probably help him
UofU Patient
June 26, 2016
Superb Doctor.
UofU Patient
May 22, 2016
very professional, friendly, knowledgable and caring
UofU Patient
April 12, 2016
good
UofU Patient
March 22, 2016
My confidence in Dr. Higgins was absolute. I feel that he did the best job that could be done with this break.
UofU Patient
March 20, 2016
Dr Higgins, Dr. Elliot, and the other residents were friendly and courteous. They offered knowledgeable information and answered any questions.
UofU Patient
March 18, 2016
He was very busy that day but he still treated me like only patient there
UofU Patient
February 29, 2016
Dr. Higgins is top notch, a true professional.
UofU Patient
February 20, 2016
Dr Higgans could not have done a better job in informing me and my son. I feel very confident in him.
UofU Patient
February 07, 2016
Not much time with care provider needed.
UofU Patient
January 29, 2016
It is always a pleasure to see Dr. Higgins even if it means you have injured yourself.
UofU Patient
January 23, 2016
I received great care and have great confidence in Dr. Higgins
UofU Patient
January 14, 2016
Dr. Higgins is a genus Doctor.
UofU Patient
November 22, 2015
Dr. Higgins explained our options and supported our decision. He brought in his assistant, Scott, to schedule the surgery and explained the wait time and how things would proceed.
UofU Patient
October 03, 2015
Dr. Higgins is excellent in all ways.
UofU Patient
September 10, 2015
I felt as he was in a hurry and didn't want to answer my questions.
UofU Patient
September 04, 2015
Dr. Higgins is a rock. I really appreciate his straight-forward approach to dealing with health issues. He has always impressed me. I know that when I come to visit him with a health issue I will be leaving with a clear understanding of what the next step in treatment will be, if any.
UofU Patient
August 23, 2015
Dr. Higgins is professional, polite and to-the-point which lends itself to my understanding that he takes my injury and my care very seriously. I appreciate this in a care provider. I did manage to make him crack a smile though. :)
UofU Patient
August 20, 2015
The only thing that bothered me about the doctor is he always greets my husband first, instead of me as the actual patient.
UofU Patient
August 09, 2015
Dr. Higgins is the epitome of best medical care. He is not only extremely skilled with his surgical talent but his warmth and understanding of patient needs are way beyond any reproach. He sets the bar very high for best practices with his example.
UofU Patient
April 05, 2015
Dr. Higgins was very honest and direct in his approach. I appreciate that!! He was thorough and seemed to understand my concerns.
UofU Patient
March 28, 2015
Dr. Higgins is fantastic and I have complete confidence in him!
UofU Patient
March 21, 2015
I always will recommend your service. You are the best.
UofU Patient
February 23, 2015
I hope I never have a need to see anyone again, but if I do or my spouse does, I would not think twice about asking for Dr. Higgins.
UofU Patient
February 22, 2015
good
UofU Patient
February 20, 2015
I love the staff and I think Dr. Higgins is such a great doctor and he is easy to talk with and helps me understand what is going on in my healing and he listens and answers my questions with compassion and caring. I am in GREAT hands with this TEAM! Thank you all
UofU Patient
February 16, 2015
Very straight forward and thorough
UofU Patient
February 16, 2015
Dr. Higgins has a lot of compassion and is an excellent doctor!
UofU Patient
February 09, 2015
great doctor and staff
UofU Patient
December 13, 2014
He is amazing!
UofU Patient
December 12, 2014
Dr Higgins used his computer access to the x-ray to show us the healing process and what to expect.
UofU Patient
September 20, 2014
Dr. Higgins is great at what he does
UofU Patient
September 08, 2014
Dr. Higgins is very black and white. I really appreciated that about him.
UofU Patient
August 17, 2014
Dr. T. Higgings is the best. I recommend him to every one
UofU Patient
July 31, 2014
EXCELLENT SERVICE
UofU Patient
July 12, 2014
GREAT DOCTOR
UofU Patient
June 12, 2014
I cannot s ay enough good things about Dr. Higgins care for me
UofU Patient
May 25, 2014
On what happened on my last visit was explained and I understand why so I really have no problems.
UofU Patient
May 25, 2014
I am grateful to have such excellent care.
UofU Patient
May 12, 2014
Very caring, genuine, professional and down to earth making a undisreable event the best it can be !
UofU Patient
May 11, 2014
last experience was much better than the previous visit. x-rays were taken quickly, med student came in exam room quickly thereafter, talked to us about the results and then Dr. Higgins came in and spent a reasonable good time with us. This time we felt that our needs were truly met and that we mattered not only as patients but human beings.
UofU Patient
May 01, 2014
Thank you kindly!
UofU Patient
April 10, 2014
good
UofU Patient
March 17, 2014
Dr. Higgins and his staff do a great job.
UofU Patient
February 23, 2014
From Higgins (my surgeon, come monday) to the surgical coordinator (lindsley) everyone was very caring to not only my personal lifestyle but to my medical care preferences. I'm also a smoker, which when it comes to bone healing is quite detrimental. I was not lectured with a "smoking is bad. stop" worthless speech. I was spoken to with science and evidence and research backing up such claims, PLUS sympathy that yes, it's an addiction, it's not easy to give up. I really appreciated the respect and sympathy and tough love, from EVERYONE I encountered!
UofU Patient
February 15, 2014
good
UofU Patient
February 15, 2014
Dr. Higgins has exceeded my expectations as a provider. I feel so fortunate to have him as my specialist. He is knowledgeable and professional, but with a personal bedside manner. I would recommend him to my closest family and friends.
UofU Patient
February 03, 2014
I really like how Dr Higgins gives me parameters regarding what I need to watch for in monitoring my L femur (Fosamax related problems) so that I know when to get back with him, and understand what I can do to minimize damage over time.
UofU Patient
December 16, 2013
I like how Dr Higgins will go over information, until he know I understand. he gives me parameters to help me take care of my bone health, which is so important to me.
UofU Patient
December 16, 2013
Dr. Higgins is a great doctor. He is friendly and shows concern for my condition. I would recommend him to anyone.
UofU Patient
November 04, 2013
I was so impressed with every single person that helped me. From the ER visit to the x-ray tech, to the nurses, to my surgeon...I loved everyone!!!
UofU Patient
October 14, 2013
Never had a bad experience. Dr. Higgins is the best!!!
UofU Patient
October 09, 2013
Dr. Higgins is an excellent Physician. He is very respectful, knowledgeable and always makes you feel like he really cares about your medical care. Extremely pleased with him.
UofU Patient
October 08, 2013
Everything was excellent except we were not educated on the infusion system which was of a type new to us.
UofU Patient
October 07, 2013
Dr. Higgins and his staff were great! Explanations were clear, concerns were resolved.
UofU Patient
September 23, 2013
good
UofU Patient
September 07, 2013
He is seeing someone that I recommended go to this clinic.
UofU Patient
September 03, 2013
it always amazed me that Dr. Higgins remembered that I lived 3 hours away and worked around this. He is great.
UofU Patient
August 29, 2013
Dr. Higgins kindly followed up with me later in the day to provide the name of a provider in the city to which I am moving.
UofU Patient
August 26, 2013
extremely impressed with Dr. Higgins. trusted him from the moment I met him in the e.r. I felt completely confident after our consultation and I am grateful to him for being my surgeon.
UofU Patient
August 12, 2013
I know drs. are busy, but he seemed in such a rush I wasn't real comfortable with that!
UofU Patient
August 07, 2013
When I asked a question the doctor stopped and listen and the responded. I felt like he listened to my concern.
UofU Patient
July 09, 2013
I already have recommended him.
UofU Patient
June 27, 2013
I could not be happier about my interactions with Dr. Higgins. He is a knowledgable provider who is an excellent communicator. He takes considerable effort to incorporate me into the decision making process. The housestaff should however be reminded to introduce themselves and explain their roles.
UofU Patient
May 08, 2013
When we brought my daughter in, she had a condition that required immediate surgury. Dr. Higgins made a great effort on our behalf to avoid an emergency room visit. We waited while he made phone calls to pcmc to get everything arranged for us. It took almost an hour, but we were kept informed by dr. Higgins as he stepped in to talk to us (between patients I am sure) and let us know what calls he had made and the timeline we were looking at. It was a very good experience, even though it was unexpected.
UofU Patient
April 30, 2013
Great surgeon. Very kind and informative.
UofU Patient
April 29, 2013
Doctor acted like he didn't believe me when I told him the extent of the problems I have been experiencing
UofU Patient
February 14, 2013
Appreciated Dr. Higgins using a model pelvis to explain my fractures.
UofU Patient
January 28, 2013
Dr Higgins has provided me excellent care and access to him during my ordeal
UofU Patient
January 27, 2013
Very informative second opinion. Dr. Higgins detailed the treatment I was receiving with explanations and possible prognosis in a very understandable way. Great visit.
UofU Patient
January 14, 2013
dr higgins has always been comsistently outstanding when it comes to explaining the situation and what needs to be done. he always shows the greatest compassion and concern for your situation
UofU Patient
December 26, 2012
Dr. Higgins Rocks!
UofU Patient
December 03, 2012
Dr. Higgins was great- just seemed a bit rushed, which is to be expected in a quick follow up. However, any questions I have after the fact I know I can have answered if I were to call or email. The only confusion ever came with how I should proceed with future visits/appointments/etc, but was cleared up after a phone call to the clinic.
UofU Patient
October 15, 2012
Dr. Higgings was AMAZING! Caring, thoughtful, engaging. When I called in with a question to the practice, I figured it would be a few days before I heard from a PA or Resident. Instead, Dr. Higgins called me back within minutes. I am so incredibly thankful to have found him for my daughter.
UofU Patient
October 01, 2012
As I mentioned, the caregivers are excellent and we have the utmost confidence in the care given at your facility.
UofU Patient
September 03, 2012
I've been dealing with a non-union of a fractured femur since 11/1/10. Dr. Higgins efforts are finally beginning to show some results and the leg is making new bone. Dr. Higgins rocks!
UofU Patient
August 28, 2012
Thanks for the excellent care and concern.
UofU Patient
August 27, 2012
Dr. Higgins is very professional and cares for his patients.
UofU Patient
August 17, 2012
Dr. Higgins has all the "Right Stuff". He lives "It's about the People" and as a patient you feel it. He is very professional, knowledgeable, and concerned. I would recommend him to anyone. I am very grateful to have had him as my care provider. I have great confidence in him. I cannot say enough! Thank You.
UofU Patient
June 30, 2012
Had another complaint that we wrote on the form and the assistant talked to us about, but the Dr. didn't follow-up on or address at all.
UofU Patient
March 07, 2012
Dr. Higgins is exceptional. Having been to several other orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Higgins shows a level of care and LISTENING and RESPECT that I have not seen from other orthos. The U of U Ortho center is lucky to have Dr. Higgins on staff. He gives greater credibility to the whole organization. I did a lot of research trying to find the very best orthopedic trauma surgeon in the state--I have no doubt that Dr. Higgins is (without exception) the very best.
UofU Patient
March 07, 2012
Good.
UofU Patient
February 01, 2012
I live in NY, but because of the quality of physicians and care at the U of U, I have continued to use this facility for follow up care.
UofU Patient
January 11, 2012
The Best
Dr. Thomas Higgins holds the Richard L. Stimson Presidential Endowed Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery and is a Professor and the Chief of Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery at the University of Utah. His medical degree was completed at Brown University School of Medicine. His orthopaedic training was at Yale University, with post-graduate fellowship in orthopaedic trauma at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. He has been on the faculty at University of Utah since 2000.
Dr. Higgins clinical expertise is in the treatment of complex intra-articular injuries, pelvic and acetabular trauma, and musculoskeletal care in the setting of polytrauma. His elective practice focuses on the deformity correction, malunions, and nonunions.
The author of over fifty peer-reviewed publications and multiple book chapters, Dr. Higgins main area of research interest clinically has been on plateau fractures. He has been primary investigator or co-investigator on four OTA grants, two AO grants, and an OREF grant. His most recent research has focused on the genetics of trauma and the use of opiate analgesics in the trauma setting, and the roles of inflammatory mediators in the formation of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
In the educational sphere, Dr. Higgins is recognized nationally for his research and presentations of tibial plateau fractures. He has been active with orthopaedic education with AO North America, chairing three courses, and teaching at over thirty. Previously a member of the OTA Education Committee, he has also chaired multiple resident courses for the OTA. He has received the annual teaching award twice at the University of Utah.
He has previously served on the Orthopaedic Trauma Association Board of Directors, and was the Program Chair for the OTA Annual Meeting in 2013 and 2014. In 2009, Dr. Higgins served as the OTA/AAOS Landstuhl Visiting Scholar, and has been visiting professor at multiple universities. In 2015 he and his family spent four months serving at Kijabe Hospital in Kenya, and he maintains an interest in continuing to serve in global medicine.
When he is not working, he enjoys skiing, biking, and travelling with his wife and kids.
Academic Locations
University Orthopaedic Center
801-587-5457
Board Certification and Academic Information
| Academic Departments | Orthopaedics
-
Professor |
| Board Certification | American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery |
Research Interests
- Tibial Plateau Fractures
- Articular Fractures
- Cartilage, Articular
- Fracture Healing
- Fracture Nonunion
- Malunion Surgery
- Osteotomy
- Difficult Fractures
- Inflammatory Cytokine Response to Fracture
- Prescription Opiate Use
Education History
| Fellowship | R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center Orthopedic Surgery Fellow |
| Chief Resident | Yale New Haven Hospital Orthopedic Surgery Chief Resident |
| Residency | Yale New Haven Hospital Orthopedic Surgery Resident |
| Internship | Yale New Haven Hospital General Surgery Intern |
| Professional Medical | Brown University School of Medicine Medicine M.D. |
| Graduate Training | Bryn Mawr College, Post-Baccalaureate Sciences Program Pre-Medicine Postbaccalaureate Studies |
| Undergraduate | Williams College Political Science, Concentration in International Relations B.A. |
Selected Publications - Journal Articles
Journal Article
- Obremskey WT, Higgins TF, Bettger JP, Vrahas MS, Lundy DW (2018). Use of Patient-Related Outcomes After Orthopaedic Trauma: Helpful or Not So Much? J Orthop Trauma, 32 Suppl 1, S48-S51.
- Haller JM, Marchand L, Rothberg DL, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2017). Inflammatory cytokine response is greater in acute tibial plafond fractures than acute tibial plateau fractures.LID - 10.1002/jor.23567 [doi]. Journal of Orthopaedic Research.
- Seymour RB, Ring D, Higgins T, Hsu JR (2017). Leading the Way to Solutions to the Opioid Epidemic: AOA Critical Issues. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 99(21), e113.
- OToole RV, Joshi M, Carlini AR, Murray CK, Allen LE, Scharfstein DO, Gary JL, Bosse MJ, Castillo RC (2017). Local Antibiotic Therapy to Reduce Infection After Operative Treatment of Fractures at High Risk of Infection: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trial (VANCO Study). J Orthop Trauma, 31 Suppl 1, S18-S24.
- Marchand LS, Working ZM, Rane AA, Jacobson LG, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF, Rothberg DL (2017). Serial Radiographs Do Not Change the Clinical Course of Nonoperative Stable OTA/AO 44-B1 Ankle Fractures. J Orthop Trauma, 31(5), 264-269.
- Marchand LS, Rothberg DL, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2017). Is This Autograft Worth It?: The Blood Loss and Transfusion Rates Associated With Reamer Irrigator Aspirator Bone Graft Harvest. J Orthop Trauma, 31(4), 205-209.
- Working ZM, Elliott I, Marchand LS, Jacobson LG, Presson AP, Stuart A, Rothberg DL, Higgins TF, Kubiak EN (2017). Predictors of amputation in high-energy forefoot and midfoot injuries. Injury, 48(2), 536-541.
- McKenzie AI, Briggs RA, Barrows KM, Nelson DS, Kwon OS, Hopkins PN, Higgins TF, Marcus RL, Drummond MJ (2017). A pilot study examining the impact of exercise training on skeletal muscle genes related to the TLR signaling pathway in older adults following hip fracture recovery. J Appl Physiol (1985), 122(1), 68-75.
- Sagi HC, Donohue D, Cooper S, Barei DP, Siebler J, Archdeacon MT, Sciadini M, Romeo M, Bergin PF, Higgins T, Mir H (2017). Institutional and Seasonal Variations in the Incidence and Causative Organisms for Posttraumatic Infection following Open Fractures. J Orthop Trauma, 31(2), 78-84.
- Kempton LB, Dibbern K, Anderson DD, Morshed S, Higgins TF, Marsh JL, McKinley TO (2016). Objective Metric of Energy Absorbed in Tibial Plateau Fractures Corresponds Well to Clinician Assessment of Fracture Severity. J Orthop Trauma, 30(10), 551-6.
- Beebe MJ, Jenkins P, Rothberg DL, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2016). Prospective Assessment of the Oncogenic Risk to Patients From Fluoroscopy During Trauma Surgery. J Orthop Trauma, 30(7), e223-9.
- Bogdan Y, Tornetta P 3rd, Einhorn TA, Guy P, Leveille L, Robinson J, Bosse MJ, Haines N, Horwitz D, Jones C, Schemitsch E, Sagi C, Thomas B, Stahl D, Ricci W, Brady M, Sanders D, Kain M, Higgins TF, Collinge C, Kottmeier S, Friess D (2016). Healing Time and Complications in Operatively Treated Atypical Femur Fractures Associated With Bisphosphonate Use: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort. J Orthop Trauma, 30(4), 177-81.
- Haller JM, Holt D, Rothberg DL, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2016). Does Early versus Delayed Spanning External Fixation Impact Complication Rates for High-energy Tibial Plateau and Plafond Fractures? Clin Orthop Relat Res, 474(6), 1436-44.
- Beebe MJ, Jenkins P, Rothberg DL, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2016). Assessing the Oncogenic Risk to Patients from Fluoroscopy during Trauma Surgery. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma.
- Haller JM, OToole R, Graves M, Barei D, Gardner M, Kubiak E, Nascone J, Nork S, Presson AP, Higgins TF (2015). How much articular displacement can be detected using fluoroscopy for tibial plateau fractures? Injury, 46(11), 2243-7.
- Stuart AR, Higgins TF, Hung M, Weir CR, Kubiak EN, Rothberg DL, Saltzman CL (2015). Reliability in Measuring Preinjury Physical Function in Orthopaedic Trauma. J Orthop Trauma, 29(12), 527-32.
- Haller JM, Swearingen CA, Partridge D, McFadden M, Thirunavukkarasu K, Higgins TF (2015). Intraarticular Matrix Metalloproteinases and Aggrecan Degradation Are Elevated After Articular Fracture. Clin Orthop Relat Res, 473(10), 3280-8.
- Haller JM, McFadden M, Kubiak EN, Higgins TF (2015). Inflammatory cytokine response following acute tibial plateau fracture. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 97(6), 478-83.
- Haller JM, Holt DC, McFadden ML, Higgins TF, Kubiak EN (2015). Arthrofibrosis of the knee following a fracture of the tibial plateau. Bone Joint J, 97-B(1), 109-14.
- Kubiak EN, Haller JM, Kemper DD, Presson AP, Higgins TF, Horwitz DS (2015). Does the lateral plate need to overlap the stem to mitigate stress concentration when treating Vancouver C periprosthetic supracondylar femur fracture? J Arthroplasty, 30(1), 104-8.
- Hung M, Stuart AR, Higgins TF, Saltzman CL, Kubiak EN (2014). In response. J Orthop Trauma, 28(8), 444.
- Rossiter ND, Higgins TF, Pallister I (June, 2014). The Mangled Extremity: Limb Salvage vs. Amputation. Orthopaedics and Trauma, 28(3), 137-140.
- Paryavi E, Pensy RA, Higgins TF, Chia B, Eglseder WA (2014). Salvage of upper extremities with humeral fracture and associated brachial artery injury. Injury, 45(12), 1870-5.
- Beckmann JT, Presson AP, Curtis SH, Haller JM, Stuart AR, Higgins TF, Kubiak EN (2014). Operative agreement on lateral compression-1 pelvis fractures. a survey of 111 OTA members. J Orthop Trauma, 28(12), 681-5.
- Holman JE, Stoddard GJ, Horwitz DS, Higgins TF (2014). The effect of preoperative counseling on duration of postoperative opiate use in orthopaedic trauma surgery: a surgeon-based comparative cohort study. J Orthop Trauma, 28(9), 502-6.
- Chrastil J, Sampson C, Jones KB, Higgins TF (2014). Evaluating the affect and reversibility of opioid-induced androgen deficiency in an orthopaedic animal fracture model. Clin Orthop Relat Res, 472(6), 1964-71.
- Hung M, Stuart AR, Higgins TF, Saltzman CL, Kubiak EN (2014). Computerized Adaptive Testing Using the PROMIS Physical Function Item Bank Reduces Test Burden With Less Ceiling Effects Compared With the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment in Orthopaedic Trauma Patients. J Orthop Trauma, 28(8), 439-43.
Review
Book Chapter
- Rothberg D, Higgins TF (2013). Fractures of the Proximal Humerus. In Leslie MP, Dodds SD (Eds.), Emerging Concepts in upper Extremity Trauma (44, pp. 9-19). Philadelphia: Elsevier, Inc.
Global Impact
Service
| 08/16/2014 | Volunteer Surgical Faculty | Served two weeks in 2014 and four months in 2015 as volunteer orthopaedic trauma faculty at residency training program in Kijabe, Kenya. | Kenya |