Dermatologic Surgicenter (Philadelphia) Program

The Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Procedural Dermatology Fellowship at the Dermatologic SurgiCenter, located in Philadelphia and Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, is designed to provide an extensive training experience for physicians interested in dermatologic procedures. This is a one-year program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and recognized by the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS).

This fellowship encompasses various aspects of dermatologic procedural surgery, including Mohs micrographic surgery, reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic procedures. Trainees will gain hands-on experience in lasers, energy-based devices, sclerotherapy, liposuction, fillers, and neurotoxins, preparing them to manage complex dermatological challenges effectively 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to ensure fellows acquire proficiency in Mohs surgery techniques, including the excision of skin cancers, tissue orientation, specimen mapping, cryostat mounting, tissue staining, and microscopic interpretation of specimens. A significant emphasis is placed on reconstructive procedures, as around 90% of the cases treated at the center demand reconstruction 1.

Fellows will be expected to manage at least 500 Mohs cases during the fellowship year, of which a minimum of 200 must be performed as the primary surgeon. Additionally, fellows must complete around 1000 dermatological procedures involving biopsies, sclerotherapy, laser treatments, and other techniques 1.

Training Sites and Surgical Experience

The fellowship primarily occurs at two accredited ambulatory surgical centers. Trainees will also have exposure to various practice settings, including the Philadelphia Veterans Administration Hospital, the University of Pennsylvania's dermatologic surgery clinic, and Dermpath Diagnostics for dermatopathology review 1.

Research Opportunities

Research constitutes a vital component of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to engage in clinical projects that are expected to lead to publication in peer-reviewed journals. Participation in professional meetings and presentations is also mandatory, including the annual meeting of the American College of Mohs Surgery 1.

Application Requirements and Eligibility

To apply for this fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria as dictated by the ACGME, which include being a graduate from an accredited medical or osteopathic school, having completed a residency in dermatology, and holding a valid license to practice medicine in the United States 1.

Competitiveness for this fellowship is significant, as the program favors candidates with strong academic records, good communication skills, and relevant research experiences. Those who do not comply with application timelines and requirements may find it challenging to secure a position. The program is amiable towards applications from both U.S.-trained physicians and international medical graduates, provided they fulfill eligibility requirements 1.

Visa Support

The fellowship program provides sponsorship for visas, enabling qualified international medical graduates to participate. Specific visa types that may be supported include the J-1 Visa for exchange visitors and potentially H-1B visas for specialty occupations, contingent on the applicant's situation and qualifications 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of this fellowship is the depth of direct surgical involvement that fellows experience, as they are expected to consistently participate in over 2500 dermatologic procedures annually performed by the faculty. This extensive volume of cases allows for an exceptional learning curve and professional growth in the field 1.

The program also offers additional optional rotations in specialized cosmetic clinics nearby, allowing fellows to broaden their skills in various advanced cosmetic techniques such as hair transplantation and blepharoplasty 1.

Overall, the fellowship aims to produce highly competent dermatologic surgeons skilled both in procedural dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery. The training experience prepares fellows excellently for careers in academic, clinical, or private dermatology practices 1.