Albany Medical Center Program

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship at Albany Medical Center offers an extensive and specialized training program designed for physicians seeking to advance their expertise in cardiothoracic anesthesia. This fellowship is characterized by a commitment to individualized training within a well-resourced and supportive environment.

Program Overview

Within the fellowship, anesthesia care is predominantly provided by a team of seven full-time cardiac anesthesiologists trained in advanced transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). This training includes collaboration with five adult cardiac surgeons, one pediatric cardiac surgeon, and three thoracic surgeons, offering a broad spectrum of experiences in both adult and pediatric cardiac surgery.

The program boasts a sophisticated training facility equipped with a dedicated hybrid operating room (OR), a catheterization lab, electrophysiology suites, and three cardiac ORs specifically designed for adult procedures, alongside one dedicated to pediatric heart surgery. This state-of-the-art setting is crucial for fellows to gain hands-on experience in managing complex surgical cases and utilizing cutting-edge technologies, including advanced 2D and 3D TEE machines from Philips EPIQ

Clinical Experience

The fellowship encompasses a wide range of procedures, with over 1,400 cases performed annually, including more than 500 involving cardiopulmonary bypass. Furthermore, the program facilitates a growing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) service, catering to critically ill patients.

Fellows will actively engage in cardiac and thoracic surgery, receiving valuable exposure that includes conducting anesthesia for a variety of procedures such as pneumonectomies, lobectomies, and complex vascular surgeries. An additional unique aspect of the fellowship is the opportunity to manage adult cardiothoracic surgical patients in a critical care setting, focusing on intensive postoperative care.

Educational Components

The educational structure of the fellowship emphasizes both didactic and practical learning. In addition to hands-on surgical training, fellows will participate in a required cardiology rotation, focusing on improving diagnostic skills and echocardiographic interpretation. There is also an elective month available at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City for exposure to ventricular assist devices (VADs) and transplant procedures.

Fellows are encouraged to delve deeply into academic pursuits, including research with a strong emphasis on outcome studies related to structural heart interventions. The program promotes an understanding of health systems science as part of its training strategy, thereby contributing to the professional development of future leaders in anesthesiology.

Research Initiatives

Fellows are required to engage in scholarly research, with opportunities available to present findings at major conferences such as the Annual Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists event. Current research focuses include implementing enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways, comparing anesthesia techniques for transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVRs), and evaluating the role of TEE in various cardiac procedures.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants for the fellowship must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in anesthesiology. The program is open to U.S. citizens, Green Card holders, and international medical graduates on J1 visas. Key application materials include a curriculum vitae (CV), a personal statement, USMLE Step scores (1, 2, and 3), and recommendations through the SF match system, showcasing at least one reference from the department chair or program director.

Living and Wellness

Albany, located in a vibrant region known for its arts, culture, and outdoor activities, offers an exceptional backdrop for fellowship training. The program places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its fellows, ensuring they have access to resources that promote work-life balance and wellness.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports fellowship applicants on J1 visas, allowing international graduates to train in the United States seamlessly. This inclusivity promotes a diverse learning environment within the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The fellowship is highly competitive, accepting only one fellow per academic year. Candidates must present a strong profile, including academic excellence in medical training and a passion for cardiothoracic anesthesiology.