Aristides I. Cruz, Jr., MD, MBA

Pediatric Orthopaedic surgeon

Specialties:

Aristides I. Cruz, Jr. MD, MBA is a Pediatric Orthopaedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of orthopaedic conditions in children and adolescents. His areas of interest include traumatic injuries and fracture care, treatment of pediatric and adolescent sports related conditions, and general pediatric orthopaedics.

Dr. Cruz obtained his undergraduate degree in 2002 from Tufts University in Medford, MA where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Biopsychology and Classical Studies. During his time at Tufts University, Dr. Cruz was captain of both the Cross Country and Track & Field teams, obtained All-Conference, and All-New England honors, was an Academic All-American as well as a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. He went on to obtain his medical degree in 2006 from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA where he graduated with Alpha Omega Alpha honors.

Dr. Cruz completed his residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at Yale-New Haven Hospital/Yale University in New Haven, CT. After residency, he went on to serve in the United States Air Force as an Orthopaedic Surgeon where he was honored with multiple awards including the Air Force Commendation medal. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force in 2014, Dr. Cruz furthered his training, completing a fellowship in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. In 2016, Dr. Cruz earned his Master of Business Administration from Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Physician Executive MBA program.

Dr. Cruz is currently practicing at University Orthopedics, Inc. in Providence, RI and is an Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University where he is actively involved in teaching medical students and residents. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), a Specialty Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), an Associate Member of the Arthroscopy Association of America (AANA), an Active Member of the Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society (PRiSM), and an Active Member of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Association of North America (POSNA). He is Board Certified as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons (ABOS).

Offices:

Dudley Street
2 Dudley St.
Providence, RI
02905

Kettle Point
1 Kettle Point Ave.
East Providence, RI
02914

Disclosures:

AAOS Record of Disclosures

Publications List

Original Publications in Peer-Reviewed Journals

1. Iorio R, Kobayashi S, Healy WL, Cruz AI Jr, Ayers ME. “Primary posterior cruciate retaining total knee arthoplasty: A comparison of American and Japanese cohorts.” J Surg Orthop Adv. 2007;16(4):164-70.

2. S Õunpuu, MSc, A Cruz, MD, M Westwell, MS PT, P DeLuca MD. “Distal rectus femoris intramuscular lengthening for the correction of stiff knee gait in children with cerebral palsy.” Dev Med Child Neurol. 51 (suppl 5), page 41, 2009.

3. Flanagin BA, Cruz AI, Medvecky MJ. “Hoffa Fracture in a Fourteen Year-Old: A Case Report.” Orthopedics. 2011 Jan 1;34(2).

4. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr, Miller CP, Peterson AT, Smith BG. “Lyme Arthritis in Children Presenting with Joint Effusions.” J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2011 Feb;93(3):252-60.

5. Smith BG, Cruz AI Jr, Milewski MD, Shapiro ED. “Lyme Disease and the Orthopaedic Implications of Lyme Arthritis.” J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2011 Feb;19(2):91-100.

6. Cruz AI Jr, Õunpuu S, DeLuca PA. “Distal Rectus Femoris Intramuscular Lengthening for the Correction of Stiff-Knee Gait in Children With Cerebral Palsy.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2011 Jul-Aug;31(5):541-7.

7. Cruz AI Jr, Lindskog, DM. “Pathologic Fractures Through Benign Bone Lesions in Children and Adolescents.” Curr Orthop Practice. 2011 Jul/Aug;22(4):351-61.

8. Cruz AI Jr, Laidlaw M. “Invasive Compartment Pressure Testing for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome: A Survey of Clinical Practice Among Military Orthopaedic Surgeons.” Am J Orthop. 2015;44(10):E384-E389.

9. Cruz AI Jr, Aversano FJ, Seeley MA, Baldwin KD. “Pediatric Lyme Arthritis of the Hip: The Great Imitator?” J Pediatr Orthop. 2015 Oct 13. [Epub ahead of print].

10. DeFroda SF, Gil JA, Hansen H, Cruz, AI Jr. “The Providence Pedi Cast-Sling: Technique and Application.” Am J Emerg Med. 2015 Dec 17. [Epub ahead of print].

11. Fabricant PD, Lakomkin N, Cruz AI Jr, Spitzer E, Lawrence JT, Marx RG. “Early ACL Reconstruction in Children Leads to Less Meniscal and Articular Cartilage Damage when Compared with Conservative or Delayed Treatment.” J ISAKOS. 2016 Jan 21. DOI: 10.1136/jisakos-2015-000012.

12. Cruz AI Jr, Fabricant PD, Seeley MA, Ganley TJ, Lawrence JT. “Change in Size of Hamstring Grafts During Preparation for ACL Reconstruction: The Effect of Tension and Circumferential Compression on Graft Diameter.” J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2016 Mar 16: 98(6): 475-483.

13. Fabricant PD, Lakomkin N, Cruz AI Jr, Spitzer E, Marx RG. “ACL Reconstruction in Youth Athletes Results in an Improved Rate of Return to Athletic Activity when Compared with Non-Operative Treatment: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” J ISAKOS 2016 Apr 18, 1 (2) 62-69; DOI:10.1136/jisakos-2015-000013

14. DeFroda SF, Hodax J, Cruz AI Jr. “Rediscovering the Physical Exam: Patellar Instability.” J Pediatr. 2016 Jun;173:258-258.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2016.03.025. Epub 2016 Apr 4.

15. Cruz AI Jr, Lawrence JT, Ganley TG. “Prone positioning for open reduction internal fixation of pediatric medial epicondyle fractures.” U Penn Ortho Journal. Vol 26, Jun 2016: 34-36.

16. Cruz AI Jr, Steere JT, Lawrence JT. “Medial Epicondyle Fractures in the Pediatric Overhead Athlete.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2016 Jun;36 Suppl 1:S56-62.

17. Cruz AI Jr, Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Lawrence JT. “Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: Does Independent Femoral Tunnel Drilling Place the Physis at Greater Risk Compared to Transtibial Drilling?” Orthop J Sports Med. 2016 Jun 7;4(6): doi: 10.1177/ 2325967116650432. eCollection 2016 Jun.

18. Cruz AI Jr, Shea KG, Ganley TJ. “Pediatric Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions of the Knee.” Orthop Clin North Am. 2016 Oct;47(4):763-75. Epub 2016 Aug 6.

19. Gil JA, DeFroda SF, Sindhu K, Cruz AI Jr, Daniels AH. “Challenges of Fracture Management in Adults with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.” Orthopedics. 2016 Oct 13:1-6. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20161006-04.

20. Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Cruz AI Jr, Brusalis CM, Chauvin NA, Lawrence JTR. “Interrater Reliability and Age-Based Normative Values for Radiographic Indices of Syndesmosis and Deltoid Ligament Stability in Children.” JBJS Open Access. Epub 2016 Dec. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.OA.16.00004.

21. Cruz AI Jr, Fabricant PD, McGraw M, Rozell JC, Ganley TJ, Wells L. “All-Epiphyseal ACL Reconstruction in Children: Review of Safety and Early Complications.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2017 Apr-May;37(3):204-209.

22. DeFroda SF, Hansen H, Gil JA, Hawari AH, Cruz AI Jr. “Radiographic Evaluation of Common Pediatric Elbow Injuries.” Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2017 Feb 20;9(1):7030.

23. Cruz AI Jr, Kleiner JE, Gil JA, DeFroda SF, Daniels AH, Eberson CP. “Increasing Rates of Surgical Treatment for Pediatric Forearm Fractures from 2000-2012.” J Child Orthop 2017;11. DOI 10.1302/1863-2548.11.170017

24. Defroda SF, Gil JA, Boulos A, Cruz AI Jr. “Diagnosis and Management of Traumatic Patellar Instability in the Pediatric Patient.” Orthopedics. 2017 Jun 6:1-8. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20170602-04. [Epub ahead of print].

25. Brusalis CM, Lakomkin N, Suryavanshi JR, Cruz AI Jr, Green DW, Jones KJ, Fabricant PD. “Clinical Outcomes Reporting in Youth ACL Literature is Widely Variable.” Ortho J Sports med. 2017 Aug 11;5(8): doi: 10.1177/2325967117724431.

26. Boulos A, DeFroda SF, Kleiner JE, Thomas N, Gil JA, Cruz AI Jr. “Inpatient Orthopaedic Hardware Removal in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study.” J Clin Orthop Trauma. 2017 Jul-Sep;8(3):270-275.  doi: 10.1016/j.jcot.2017.06.020. Epub 2017 Jul 1.

27. DeFroda SF, Hodax J, Shah KN, Cruz AI Jr. “Tibial eminence fracture fixation with double Hewson suture passer technique.” Arthrosc Tech. 2017 Aug 14;6(4):e1275-e1279. doi: 10.1016/j.eats.2017.05.005. eCollection 2017 Aug.

28. Jackson TJ, Storey EP, Ganley TJ; Tibial Spine Interest Group. “The Surgical Management of Tibial Spine Fractures in Children: A Survey of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA). J Pediatr Orthop. 2017 Sep 22. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001073. [Epub ahead of print]

29. Cruz AI Jr, Defroda SF, Gil JA, Hansen H, Boulos A, Procaccini M, Zonfrillo MR. “Patient and Parent Satisfaction With Sling Use After Pediatric Upper Extremity Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Customized Cast-Sling vs. Standard Cast and Sling.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2017 Oct 18. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001091. [Epub ahead of print]

30. Goodman AD, Zonfrillo MR, Chiou D, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “The Cost and Utility of Post-Reduction Radiographs After Closed Reduction of Pediatric Wrist and Forearm Fractures.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2017 Oct 18. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001081. [Epub ahead of print]

31. DeFroda SF, Hiller K, Cruz AI. “Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rehabilitation: A Review.” RI Med J (2013). 2017 Nov 1;100(11):26-30.

32. Sobel AD, Reid DB, Blood TD, Daniels AH, Cruz AI Jr. “Pediatric orthopedic hoverboard injuries: A prospectively enrolled cohort.” J Pediatr. 2017 Nov; 190: 271-74. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.07.041.

33. Cruz AI Jr, Anari JB, Ramirez JM, Sankar WN, Baldwin KB. “Distinguishing Pediatric Lyme Arthritis of the Hip from Transient Synovitis and Acute Bacterial Septic Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Cureus. 2018 Jan 25;10(1):e2112. doi: 10.7759/cureus.2112.

34. Cruz AI Jr, Richmond CG, Tompkins MA, Heyer A, Shea KG, Beck JJ. “What’s new in pediatric sports conditions of the knee?” J Pediatr Orthop. 2018 Feb;38(2):e66-e72. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001107.

35. Beck JJ, Richmond CG, Tompkins MA, Heyer A, Shea KG, Cruz AI Jr. “What’s new in pediatric upper extremity sports injuries?” J Pediatr Orthop. 2018 Feb;38(2):e73-e77. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001104.

36. Rhodes JA, Cannamela PC, Cruz AI Jr, Mayo M, Styhl AC, Ganley TJ, Shea KG. “Incidence of meniscal entrapment and associated knee injuries in tibial spine avulsions.” J Pediatr Orthop. 2018 Feb;38(2):e38-e42. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001110.

37. Slotkin S, Thome A, Ricketts C, Georgiadis A, Cruz A, Seeley M. “Anterior knee pain in children and adolescents: Overview and management.” J Knee Surg. 2018 Feb 28. doi: 10.1055/s-0038-1632376. [Epub ashead of print].

38. Gao B, Dwivedi S, Fabricant PD, Cruz AI Jr. “Patterns in Outcomes Reporting of Operatively Managed Pediatric Patellar Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Am J Sports Med. 2018 Apr 1:363546518765152. doi: 10.1177/0363546518765152. [Epub ahead of print]

39. Cruz AI Jr, Kleiner JE, Gil JA, Goodman AD, Daniels AH, Eberson CP. “Inpatient Surgical Treatment for Paediatric Proximal Humerus Fractures from 2000-2012.” J Child Orthop. 2018 Apr 1;12(2):111-116. doi: 10.1302/1863-2548.12.170220.

40. Lakomkin N, Cruz AI Jr, Fabricant PD, Georgiadis AG, Lawrence JTR. “Glove Perforation During Orthopaedic Surgical Maneuvers.” J Orthop Trauma. 2018 May 28. doi: 10.1097/BOT.0000000000001233. [Epub ahead of print]

41. Ranade S, Refakis CA, Cruz AI Jr, Gornitzky AL, Leddy KL, Wells L, Lawrence JT, Ganley TJ. “Validated Pediatric Functional Outcomes of All-Epiphyseal ACL Reconstructions: Does Reinjury Affect Outcomes?” J Pediatr Orthop. 2018 Jun 20. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001217. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 29927793

42. Kleiner JE, Johnson J, Cruz AI Jr. “Trends in All-Terrain Vehicle Injuries from 2000-2015 and the Effect of Targeted Public Safety Campaigns.” J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2018 Jul 30. doi: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-17-00041. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 30063548

Book Chapters

1. Cruz AI Jr, “Neuromuscular Disorders” in Pocket Orthopaedic Surgery. Eds. Boughanem J, Shah RR. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2016. ISBN-13: 978-1451185669. ISBN-10: 1451185669.

2. Cruz AI Jr, “Skeletal Dysplasias” in Pocket Orthopaedic Surgery. Eds. Boughanem J, Shah RR. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA, 2016. ISBN-13: 978-1451185669. ISBN-10: 1451185669.

3. Cruz AI Jr, Milewski MD, “Patellofemoral Instability and Other Common Knee Issues in the Skeletally Immature Athlete (Other Knee Pathology)” in Sports Medicine OKU 5. Ed. Miller MD. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Rosemont, IL, 2016. ISBN: 9781625523280.

4. Flynn JM, Seeley MA, Cruz AI Jr, “Spine Injuries in the Pediatric Athlete” in Spine Injuries in Athletes, 1st Ed. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Rosemont, IL, 2017. ISBN-13: 978-1496360267.

5. Cruz AI Jr, Eberson CP, Schiller JR, “Trauma to the Pelvis, Hip, and Femur: Pediatrics” in OKU 12. Ed. Grauer JN. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Rosemont, IL, 2016. ISBN: 978-1-62552-554-3.

6. Socci AR, Cruz AI Jr, Hansen HD, Little R, Milewski MD. “Lower Extremity and Foot Disorders: Pediatrics” in OKU 12. Ed. Grauer JN. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Rosemont, IL, 2016. ISBN: 978-1-62552-554-3.

7. Cruz AI Jr. “Knee Ligament Injuries” in Orthopedic Surgery Clerkship: A Quick Reference Guide for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2017. ISBN-13: 978-3319525655

8. Cruz AI Jr. “Genu Varum” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

9. Cruz AI Jr. “Shoulder and Elbow Deformities” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

10. Cruz AI Jr. “Genu Valgum” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

11. Cruz AI Jr. “Hand and Wrist Deformities” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

12. Cruz AI Jr. “Pediatric Fractures: Management Principles” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

13. Cruz AI Jr. “Radial Head Dislocation” in Essential Orthopedic Review: Questions and Answers for Senior Medical Students. Eds. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. Springer International Publishing. Cham Switzerland, 2018. ISBN: 978-3-319-78387-1

ABSTRACTS

Podium Presentations

1. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr, Miller CP, Smith BG. “Incidence of Lyme arthritis in children presenting with lower extremity joint effusions.” Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, Boston, MA, April 29-May 2, 2009.

2. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr., Miller CP, Smith BG. “Distinguishing Lyme Arthritis from Septic Arthritis in Children Presenting with a Joint Effusion.” Connecticut Orthopaedic Society, Farmington, CT, May 29, 2009.

3. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr., Miller CP, Smith BG. “Distinguishing Lyme Arthritis from Septic Arthritis in Children Presenting with a Joint Effusion.” American Academy of Pediatrics, Washington, DC, October 17-20, 2009.

4. Cruz AI, Ounpuu S, DeLuca P. “Intramuscular rectus femoris lengthening for the correction of stiff knee gait in children with cerebral palsy: An evaluation using 3D motion analysis.” American Academy of Pediatrics, Washington, DC, October 17-20, 2009.

5. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr., Miller CP, Smith BG. “Distinguishing Lyme Arthritis from Septic Arthritis in Children Presenting with a Joint Effusion.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, New Orleans, LA, March 9-13, 2010.

6. Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr., Miller CP, Smith BG. “Distinguishing Lyme Arthritis from Septic Arthritis in Children Presenting with a Joint Effusion.” 20th annual Leon M. Kruger, M.D. Lectureship at the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Springfield, MA May 27, 2010.

7. Oetgen ME, Cruz AI, Yeh P, Dodds SD. “The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors in the Treatment of Pediatric Fractures of the Wrist and Forearm.” American Academy of Pediatrics, San Francisco, CA, October 1-5, 2010.

8. Oetgen ME, Cruz AI, Yeh P, Dodds SD. “The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors in the Treatment of Pediatric Fractures of the Wrist and Forearm.” New England Hand Society, Sturbridge, MA, December 3, 2010.

9. Cruz AI Jr, Ounpuu S, DeLuca P. “Rectus Femoris Intramuscular Lengthening for Stiff-Knee Gait in Children With Cerebral Palsy.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, San Diego, CA, February 15-19, 2011.

10. Cruz AI Jr, Ounpuu S, DeLuca P. “Rectus Femoris Intramuscular Lengthening for Stiff-Knee Gait in Children With Cerebral Palsy.” Yale Orthopaedic Disputations, New Haven, CT, June 17, 2011.

11. Cruz AI Jr, McGraw M, Fabricant PD, Wells L. “Complications associated with all epiphyseal ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients.” Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, April 29-May 2, 2015, Atlanta, GA

12. Cruz AI Jr, McGraw M, Fabricant PD, Wells L. “Safety of all-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction in children.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 24-27, 2015, Washington, DC.

13. Cruz AI Jr, Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Lawrence JT. “Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: Does Independent Femoral Tunnel Drilling Place the Physis at Greater Risk Compared to Transtibial Drilling?” Arthroscopy Association of North America, April 14-16, 2016, Boston, MA.

14. Cruz AI Jr, McGraw M, Fabricant PD, Wells L. “Safety of all-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction in children.” Arthroscopy Association of North America, April 14-16, 2016, Boston, MA.

15. Ranade S, Refakis CA, Cruz AI Jr, Gornitzky AL, Leddy KL, Wells L, Lawrence JT, Ganley, TJ. “Validated Pediatric Functional Outcomes of All-Epiphyseal ACL Reconstruction: Does Reinjury Affect Outcomes? Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, April 27-30, 2016, Indianapolis, IN.

16. Cruz AI Jr, Gil JA, Goodman AD, Daniels AH. “Resident Exposure to Pediatric Orthopaedic Procedures During Residency.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 22-25, 2016, San Francisco, CA.

17. DeFroda SF, Gil JA, Shah KN, Li N, Cruz AI Jr, Schiller JR. “Seasonal Variation in Lyme Arthritis Evaluated in a Northeastern State with a Single Pediatric Emergency Department.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 22-25, 2016, San Francisco, CA.

18. Cruz AI Jr, Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Lawrence JT. “The Effect of Tunnel Drill Angle on Physeal Disruption During ACL Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: Transtibial vs. Independent Drilling.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 22-25, 2016, San Francisco, CA.

19. Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Cruz AI Jr, Brusalis CM, Chauvin NA, Lawrence JT. “Interrater Reliability and Age-Based Normative Values for Radiographic Indices of Syndesmosis and Deltoid Ligament Stability in Children.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 22-25, 2016, San Francisco, CA.

20. Cruz AI Jr, Kleiner JE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. “Increasing Rates of Surgical Treatment for Pediatric Forearm Fractures from 2000-2012.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society 4th Annual Meeting, January 26-28, 2017, Dallas, TX.

21. Lawrence JT, Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Cruz AI Jr, Brusalis CM, Chauvin NA. “Interrater Reliability and Age-Based Normative Values for Radiographic Indices of Syndesmosis and Deltoid Ligament Stability in Children.” EPOSNA Annual Meeting, May 3-6, 2017, Barcelona, Spain.

22. Goodman AD, Zonfrillo MR, Chiou D, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “The Cost and Utility of Post-Reduction Radiographs After Closed Reduction of Pediatric Wrist and Forearm Fractures.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, September 16-19, 2017, Chicago, IL.

23. Shah KN, Hodax J, Hayes L, Schiller JR, Cruz AI Jr. “Childhood Obesity Increases the Need for Reduction and Operative Management of Ankle Fractures.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, September 16-19, 2017, Chicago, IL.

24. Boulos A, Defroda SF, Kleiner JE, Gil JA, Cruz AI Jr. “A Cross-Sectional Study of Inpatient Orthopaedic Hardware Removal in Children.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, September 16-19, 2017, Chicago, IL.

25. Hayes LE, Boulos A, Cruz AI Jr. “Risk Factors for In-Season Injury in Varsity Collegiate Cross-Country Athletes.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 25-27, 2018, Plantation, FL.

26. Goodman AD, Zonfrillo MR, Chiou D, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “The Cost and Utility of Post-Reduction Radiographs After Closed Reduction of Pediatric Wrist and Forearm Fractures.” American Academy of Orthopaedics Annual Meeting, March 6-10, 2018, New Orleans, LA.

27. Matson AM, Gil JA, Zhang XC, Chiou D, Wing RD, Kobayashi L, Cruz AI Jr. “Preliminary Results from the Wrist Reduction Instruction with Simulation Technology (WRIST) Interdisciplinary Emergency Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery Study.” Society for Academic Emergency Medicine, May 15-18, 2018, Indianapolis, IN.

28. Gao BS, Dwivedi S, Gil JA, Cruz AI Jr. “Operative vs. Non-operative Management of Type II Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Children: An Expected Value Decision Analysis & Direct Cost Comparison.” 73rd Annual Meeting of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, September 13-15, 2018, Boston, MA.

29. Kleiner JE, Raducha JR, Cruz AI Jr. “A Database Analysis of Pediatric Tibia Fracture Surgical Fixation Rates Between 2000-2012.” American Academy of Pediatrics, November 2-6, 2018, Orlando, FL.

30. Gao B, Dwivedi S, Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr. “Chronic Lack of Sleep is Associated with Sports Injury in Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” American Academy of Pediatrics, November 2-6, 2018, Orlando, FL.

31. Goodman AD, Walsh D, Zonfrillo MR, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “Using Fluoroscopy for Definitive Post-Reduction Imaging of Wrist and Forearm Fractures Saves Time and Is Safe.” American Academy of Pediatrics, November 2-6, 2018, Orlando, FL.

32. Ellis HB, Zynda A, Parker Mitchell, Cruz AI Jr, Sachleben B, Sargent C, Green DW, Warnick D, Schmale G, Jagodzinski J, Rhodes J, Mistovich J, Fabricant PD, McKay S, Yen YM, Ganley TJ. “Reliability in Radiograohic Review of Tibial Spine Fractures in a Tibial Spine Research Interest Group.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 17-19, 2019, Atlanta, GA.

33. Ellis HB, Vandenberg C, Beck J, Pennock AT, Cruz AI Jr, Gauthier L, Gerow F, Ganley TJ, Jones K, Sabatino M, Shea KG. “Trends in Pediatric ACL Reconstructions: A Review of Surgeon Fellowship, Geography, and Meniscus Surgery in the ABOS Part 2 Database.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 17-19, 2019, Atlanta, GA.

34. Goodman AD, Walsh D, Zonfrillo MR, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “Using Fluoroscopy for Definitive Post-Reduction Imaging of Wrist and Forearm Fractures is Safe and Saves Time.” American Association for Hand Surgery, January 20-February 2, Palm Desert, CA.

Poster Presentations

1. Cruz AI, Ounpuu S, Solomito M, DeLuca P. “Intramuscular rectus femoris lengthening for the correction of stiff knee gait in children with cerebral palsy: An evaluation using 3D motion analysis.” Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society, Denver, CO March 10-12, 2009.

2. Cruz AI Jr, Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Lawrence JT. “Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: Does Independent Femoral Tunnel Drilling Place the Physis at Greater Risk Compared to Transtibial Drilling?” American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, July 7-9, 2016, Colorado Springs, CO.

3. Gil JA, Lakomkin N, Cruz AI Jr. “Visual Joint Angle Assessment of the Elbow and Wrist: Does Accuracy Improve with a Higher Level of Orthopaedic Surgery Training?” Hand Society 71st Annual Meeting, Sep 29 – Oct 1, 2016, Austin, TX.

4. Shah KN, DeFroda SF, Gil JA, Li N, Schiller JR, Cruz AI Jr. “Serum Inflammatory Markers and Synovial Fluid Analysis in Pediatric Patients with Lyme Arthritis vs. Septic Arthritis of the Knee.” American Academy of Pediatrics National Convention & Exhibition, October 22-25, 2016, San Francisco, CA.

5. Cruz AI Jr, Kleiner JE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH. “Increasing Rates of Surgical Treatment for Pediatric Proximal Humerus Fractures from 2000-2012.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society 4th Annual Meeting, January 26-28, 2017, Dallas, TX.

6. Rhodes JA, Cannamela PC, Cruz AI Jr, Mayo M, Styhl AC, Ganley TJ, Shea KG. “Incidence of meniscal entrapment and associated knee injuries in tibial spine avulsions.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society 4th Annual Meeting, January 26-28, 2017, Dallas, TX.

7. Lakomkin N, Fabricant PD, Cruz AI Jr, Brusalis CM, Chauvin NA, Lawrence JT. “Interrater Reliability and Age-Based Normative Values for Radiographic Indices of Syndesmosis and Deltoid Ligament Stability in Children.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Society 4th Annual Meeting, January 26-28, 2017, Dallas, TX.

8. Goodman AD, Zonfrillo MR, Chiou D, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “The Cost and Utility of Post-Reduction Radiographs After Closed Reduction of Pediatric Wrist and Forearm Fractures.” American Association for Hand Surgery Annual Meeting, January 10-13, 2018, Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

9. Brusalis CM, Lakomkin N, Suryavanshi JR, Cruz AI Jr, Green DW, Jones KJ, Fabricant PD. “Clinical Outcomes Reporting in Youth ACL Literature is Widely Variable.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 25-27, 2018, Plantation, FL.

10. Matson AM, Gil JA, Zhang XC, Chiou D, Wing RD, Kobayashi L, Cruz AI Jr. “Preliminary Results from the Wrist Reduction Instruction with Simulation Technology (WRIST) Interdisciplinary Emergency Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery Study.” CORD Academic Assembly, April 22-25, 2018, San Antonio, TX. 

11. Cruz AI Jr, Anari JB, Ramirez JM, Sankar WN, Baldwin KB. “Distinguishing Pediatric Lyme Arthritis of the Hip from Transient Synovitis and Acute Bacterial Septic Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” POSNA Annual Meeting, May 9-12, 2018, Austin, TX.

12. Gao BS, Dwivedi S, Gil JA, Cruz AI Jr. “Operative vs. Non-operative Management of Type II Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Children: An Expected Value Decision Analysis & Direct Cost Comparison.” American Academy of Pediatrics, November 2-6, 2018, Orlando, FL.

13. Gao BS, Dwivedi S, Milewski MD, Cruz AI Jr. “Chronic Lack of Sleep is Associated with Increased Sports Injury in Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 17-19, 2019, Atlanta, GA.

14. Ellis HB, Pennock AT, Cruz AI Jr, Gauthier L, Gerow F, Ganley TJ, Jones K, Shea KG. “Complication Analysis of Pediatric and Adolescent ACL Reconstructions in the ABOS Database.” Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, January 17-19, 2019, Atlanta, GA.

15. Dwivedi S, Gao BS, Gil JA, Cruz AI Jr. “Operative vs. Non-operative Management of Type II Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Children: An Expected Value Decision Analysis & Direct Cost Comparison.” American Association for Hand Surgery Annual Meeting, January 30 – February 2, 2019, Palm Desert, CA.

16. Goodman AD, Walsh D, Zonfrillo MR, Eberson CP, Cruz AI Jr. “Using Fluoroscopy for Definitive Post-Reduction Imaging of Wrist and Forearm Fractures is Safe and Saves Time.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgoens Annual Meeting, March 12-16, 2019, Las Vegas, NV.

Patient Reviews

Dr. Cruz Comments	Would Recommend
I love Dr. Cruz, He explains everything very very well, he helped ease the process. He is very good with our daughter who is 7 and had many questions for him. His staff were very helpful and they were all very educated on teaching us and helping us with this surgery and posto[	100%
When my daughter was seen by Dr. Cruz, she was already using crutches, and it would have been helpful to have him check to be sure that she was using them properly. It was not a question that we thought to ask.	100%
Amazing pediatric ortho surgeon!! He fixed my baby girl.	100%
I am so grateful that my son Ethan was cared for by Dr. Cruz and his staff. The front desk staff have always made a friendly and helpful, easy experience each time we went. Ethan loves the hospital and we always felt at ease going in and leaving Dr Cruz's office. Too bad we won't be seeing him anymore but thankfully my child is all healed and back to 100% Thank you!	100%
He was very understanding and helped my daughter	100%
the office call center gave me an appt date and time and when we arrived we were not on the schedule. I had forgotten my card at home to pay our copay and the front desk made me feel very comfortable when I asked to have my copay billed. they stated all doctor offices require the copay when services are rendered. I work for a hospital and when my patients do not have their copay i handle that very different. my son needed this appt and they were just worried about the money. they were going to turn us away because of $20 unless i had spoken up. i later called and paid the copay over phone. i wish that would’ve been dealt with more sympathy. other than that dr. cruz was great, although he was quick in and out, he answered all my questions and informed my thoroughly of what our next steps were.	100%
Very kind and professional!	100%
Dr Cruz was amazing!	100%
He is so nice and friendly. Made my son feel at ease.	100%
Great with kids! My son always feels comfortable during his visits.	100%
Best Dr. Outstanding service	100%
Very thoughtful. Interacted very well with our child.Appreciated that he talked to her directly rather than through me , her parent, although made sure to address my questions as well.	100%
All I want to say is Dr Cruz is a great doctor took care of our daughter and her hip dysplasia is a thing of the past thank you Dr Cruz also your new building is beautiful and it was a pleasure to go there	100%
The doctor was fine. I didn’t like that the medical assistant didn’t know why I was there. She spent a lot of time asking me questions about myself but I’m pregnant and was there for a consultation for my baby.	90%
Dr. Cruz was excellent!	100%
Excelente doctor y el personal muy amable	100%
Very nice and calming. I appreciated his kindness and concern form my well being.	100%
Great doctor with an incredible ability of interacting and making patients and worried parents feel at ease. Would recommend him to anyone.	100%
Great doctor	100%
Excellent experience! One of the best doctor's visits ever!!	100%
We love Dr. Cruz	100%
Dr Cruz and the 2 other doctors with him were friendly and fantastic. The only complaint that I have is the nurse that checked us in, was very unpleasant and unprofessional. She had a very annoyed attitude and I could hear her giving the doctors attitude in the hall.	100%
Great with kids, wonderful personallity. Straight and to the point. Beautiful east prov location. Helpful and curtious staff in all departments. Will highly reccomend.	100%
Dr. Cruz and staff are where amazing with my son.	100%
He made a terrible accident very tolerable. He showered concerned and made GREAT connection with my son.	100%
While we are happy that Madison's surgery adventure is over, we will truly miss Dr Cruz and Stacey in the Dudley St PT office! Their motivation and confidence has been fantastic! There was never a point where we questioned our decision. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! We truly appreciate your time and expertise! Happy Holidays! Please pass this on to them!	100%
He barely see patient. Probably in exam room less than 2 minute. He might be a good doctor but we felt we are less than nothing to him.	30%
No comments in reference to him but Front desk staff at check in for appointments could have a better greeting attitude. And show they at least want their job. As a business owner myself the first face of any company is greeting the customers/patients with a good attitude.	100%
Dr Cruz was wonderful to deal with, thank you!	100%
Dr. CRUZ is an excellent doctor. He is very approachable and kind to his patients. His expertise is superb and we are extremely satisfied with his care of our son Ryan.	100%
The cast that was put on my daughter was hastily done which is now resulting into another visit today ‐ the day after it was done ‐ to get it redone. A sharp fiberglass edge was digging into her ankle bone this morning. Maybe if the tech didn’t seem to be in such a rush to finish quickly it would have been done correctly the first time.	100%
In my opinion, the doctor was fine, the reason why I'm not satisfied, is for the lady interpreter.The next time you ask me, I appreciate it in Spanish.Thank you.	90%
Extremely professional, courteous and caring! Dr. Cruz AND his staff took great care of my child ﴾Ethan﴿ helping him stay calm and being as gentle as possible, while speaking to him through every step of the appointment, which helps with my child who is already veryanxious and is experiencing this ﴾broken bone/cast﴿ for the first time in his life. Thank you, I am grateful to have my child ﴾Ethan﴿ in Dr. Cruz's & staff's care!	100%
Dr. Cruz is top notch! Being that he sees pediatric patients, I feel it is important for Docs to speak to older children and parents. Not just the parents. My son left knowing exactly what his diagnosis was and felt very comfortable with how everything was explained! Kudos to him for always addressing the parent and child!	100%
He was a groovy dude.	100%
Dr. Cruz was knowledgeable, professional and personable. The best part was that we never felt rushed, answering all of our questions patiently and fully. I am also so appreciative that he was able to get us in quickly and schedule the follow‐up surgery within a month. We feel fortunate to get to work with him.	100%
Dr Cruz is a very caring and experienced Dr, he is an outstanding professional.	100%
Good dr. Knows his stuff	60%
Knowledgeable, soft spoken, clear and very patient	100%
Kind and approachable doctor, but I am glad I did not go with his recommendation to simply splint my 3yo’s broken arm. With a buckle fracture to both the radius and ulna, and given the activity level and lack of self preservation of my 3yo the splint would not have held up well. The casting nurse offered a waterproof cast, and this is what we went with. The extra $65 was well worth the peace of mind. Later in the day my daughter used her casted arm to drum on a store pillar, I was very glad for the choice we made. Dr. Cruz was supportive of my choice as a parent and did not mind at all that I didn’t take his suggestion of a splint. I am glad to have had the confidence and ability to make a better choice for my child, although I typically prefer to take Dr. reccomendations.	50%
I was very pleased	100%
Excellent experience. Definitely recommend him to anyone.	100%
Such a wonderful experience. Very organized and clean practice. Everyone was super friendly and accommodated our 2 year olds needs in a very calming, professional manner. Very happy very satisfied! Job well done by all!	100%

Useful Links

AAOS OrthoInfo: Children’s Orthopaedic Conditions
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/menus/children.cfm
Great resource for common Orthopaedic conditions in children and adolescents.

Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America
https://www.posna.org/
Homepage for pediatric orthopaedic professional society.

POSNA Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/POSNA?fref=nf
Facebook page of Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America. See what's current with POSNA!

OrthoKids
https://orthokids.org/
OrthoKids is the website for kids as well as parents to learn about pediatric orthopaedic conditions, injury prevention, and treatment. Everything on OrthoKids is provided by members of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA).