Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Program

The Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Management Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is a distinguished program rooted in excellence and innovation in training for future leaders in regional anesthesia. Established as one of the first ACGME-accredited programs in the country, this fellowship seeks to equip its fellows with expert skills in regional anesthesia techniques, inpatient and outpatient catheter management, as well as comprehensive acute pain management strategies.

The program benefits from a high volume of diverse surgical cases and integrates regional anesthesia techniques into the acute pain management framework, ensuring that fellows gain exposure to a broad range of patient treatment needs. The fellowship places a strong emphasis on not only clinical training but also on academic pursuits through a robust didactic program and involvement in clinical research.1

Training and Curriculum

The Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Management Fellowship is structured as a 12-month intensive program emphasizing both clinical and didactic learning. The curriculum focuses on achieving expertise in neuraxial anesthesia along with peripheral nerve blockade methods, ensuring fellows are adept in the complexities of managing regional anesthesia.

Throughout the fellowship, trainees will engage in comprehensive clinical experiences involving various surgical procedures, particularly those related to orthopedics. Key skills covered include:

• Upper and lower extremity and plexus nerve blocks
• Truncal peripheral nerve blocks
• Central neuraxial blocks and catheters
• Ultrasound-guided block techniques
• Acute pain management procedures

The program is designed to transition fellows towards a model of independent practice, eventually equipping them to lead regional anesthesia initiatives in their future roles.8

Application Information

Prospective applicants should note that fellows are selected through the SF Match service, which processes applications for six available positions. The match takes place in June for applicants seeking to begin fellowship training the following August. The application process entails submitting essential documents, including a curriculum vitae, resident in-training exam report, and letters of recommendation.

It is imperative that candidates meet all prerequisites for eligibility prior to applying. Additionally, fellows must qualify for their respective boards in anesthesiology, and obtaining a full unrestricted medical license to practice in California is mandatory for all appointees.7

Faculty

The fellowship faculty represents an array of distinguished clinicians and researchers, notable for their contributions to the field of regional anesthesia and pain management. This esteemed group includes experienced educators committed to fostering the next generation of specialists in this domain.2

Facilities and Resources

Fellows at Cedars-Sinai have access to cutting-edge facilities, including the Department of Anesthesiology Library, which serves as a comprehensive resource center providing current medical literature and educational materials. The Women's Guild Simulation Center offers immersive training experiences utilizing the latest medical technologies and simulators allowing fellows to refine their hands-on skills in a controlled environment.5

Diversity and Inclusion

The program promotes an inclusive atmosphere that values diversity and ensures that all participants feel respected and supported. This principle guides the fellowship in its commitment to nurturing a learning environment conducive to the advancement of all involved.4

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, typically offering support for J-1 visas. The program is considered competitive, requiring strong academic credentials and clinical performance to secure a position.3

Unique Aspects

One of the unique aspects of the Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Management Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai is the integration of clinical practice with ongoing research initiatives. Fellows are expected to participate in clinical studies, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in regional anesthesia techniques and pain management strategies.6