Boston Children’s Hospital Program
Location:
Boston, MASpecialty:
Pediatric surgeryACGME Code:
4452421016The Pediatric Surgery Program at Boston Children’s Hospital is recognized as one of the largest and most comprehensive in the United States. The program offers specialized surgical services tailored to the needs of infants, children, and adolescents suffering from a range of congenital and acquired conditions. Each year, the program undertakes over 2,300 surgical procedures, underscoring its vital role in pediatric healthcare.
Clinical Expertise and Patient Care
Within the Department of Pediatric Surgery, a dedicated team of skilled pediatric surgeons collaborates with highly trained anesthesiologists and medical professionals. Their commitment is to employ the least invasive treatment methods while ensuring patient safety and enhancing recovery time. The department’s innovative approaches encompass a variety of conditions, such as tumors, hernias, and complex surgical needs.
With more than 130 years of history, Boston Children’s Hospital has been a pioneer in pediatric health, achieving numerous surgical milestones. Noteworthy accomplishments include the first successful infant lung transplant performed in New England and the introduction of advanced procedures like the serial transverse enteroplasty procedure (STEP) designed for short bowel syndrome treatment.
Research and Innovation
Research is a cornerstone of the Boston Children’s Pediatric Surgery Program, which emphasizes advancing the science of pediatric surgery through laboratory and clinical studies. Focal research areas cover fetal regenerative medicine, angiogenesis, transplantation, oncology, and surgical outcomes, as well as innovations in surgical instruments and techniques. The program supports a robust Pediatric Surgical Research Fellowship, allowing early-career surgeons to engage in impactful research while training in cutting-edge surgical practices.
Educational Opportunities
As the primary pediatric teaching hospital for Harvard Medical School, the program provides fellowship opportunities in pediatric surgery, surgical critical care, and surgical innovation. Trainees are immersed in an environment that emphasizes both learning and clinical excellence, thus preparing them for successful careers in pediatric surgery.
Programs and Services
The Boston Children's Hospital offers a spectrum of specialized programs including:
- Adolescent Weight Loss Surgery Program: Comprehensive care addressing the medical and emotional needs of young candidates for bariatric surgery.
- Colorectal and Pelvic Malformation Center: Provides individualized treatment plans for children facing complex colorectal and pelvic malformations.
- Esophageal and Airway Treatment Center: Renowned for its expertise in surgical interventions addressing esophageal and airway disorders.
- Pediatric Transplant Center: Features a multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in organ transplantation for children.
- Vascular Anomalies Center: A leading facility treating both common and complex vascular anomalies in children.
Application Process and Competitiveness
The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship program at Boston Children’s is highly competitive, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds, including MDs, DOs, and international medical graduates (IMGs). Comprehensive application requirements and qualifications are detailed in the program literature. Notably, the program offers visa sponsorship options for international candidates, focusing on J-1 and H-1B visas.
Applicants should be aware of specific eligibility criteria, including graduation timelines and the maximum number of failed STEP exams allowed. Furthermore, candidates are encouraged to exhibit a keen interest in pediatric surgery, research initiatives, and it is advantageous if they possess experiences in clinical settings involving pediatric populations.
Training Environment
The program fosters a collaborative training environment across multiple locations, ensuring fellows gain diverse experiences. Surgical rotations typically cover various specialties within pediatric surgery, where fellows participate in complex case discussions, hands-on procedures, and patient management across settings that include the main hospital and affiliated facilities.
This rigorous training model not only enriches clinical skills but also enhances research opportunities, with fellows heavily involved in both patient care and scientific inquiry.
Conclusion
Boston Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Surgery Program stands as an exemplary institution in the field of pediatric surgical services. Its commitment to research, education, and patient-centered care fosters a skilled cohort of surgeons dedicated to advancing practices in pediatric health.
Website
Director
Biren P Modi, MD, MPHProgram Director Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
76hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$140,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Boston, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Boston, MA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Boston has a relatively higher crime rate compared to some other cities in the U.S., especially in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Boston is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Residents can enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and various festivals throughout the year.
- Climate: Boston experiences all four seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Be prepared for snowfall in the winter and humidity in the summer.
- Races and Population: Boston is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures among its population. Residents can experience a lively multicultural atmosphere.
- Education: Boston is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Harvard University and MIT. Residents have access to top-notch educational opportunities.
- Cost of Living: Boston is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare. It's advisable to budget carefully to manage expenses.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Boston is located approximately 4 hours drive from New York City. New York City offers a different urban experience with its own cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Rich history, cultural diversity, top educational institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: High cost of living, higher crime rate in certain areas.
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