ECU Health Medical Center/East Carolina University Program

The Vascular Surgery Fellowship offered at East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine, in collaboration with the ECU Health Medical Center, is a two-year traditional training program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). It is designed for individuals who have completed an ACGME-approved residency in General Surgery and are seeking to pursue advanced training in vascular and endovascular surgery.

Applications are accepted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) during the application window from December to January. Interviews are generally held from February to March, and candidates are matched through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) annually in May. The program typically accepts one fellow each year, creating an intimate learning environment.

Training Facilities

The fellowship training takes place at the East Carolina Heart Institute, which is a state-of-the-art facility resulting from a collaboration between the Brody School of Medicine and the ECU Health Medical Center. The institute features modern endovascular suites and contemporary cardiovascular operating rooms, providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient cardiovascular care.

The section of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery is well-equipped with dedicated resources for both open and minimally invasive surgical procedures. Fellows will gain hands-on experience in an array of techniques and approaches to vascular surgery, enhancing their clinical skills throughout the fellowship.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as a critical component of fellowship training. Fellows are provided time and support for research endeavors, enabling them to engage in various projects within the realms of vascular and endovascular surgery. This includes access to a robust clinical research program, which aims to advance the field through innovative studies and collaborations with basic scientists.

Curriculum and Clinical Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is designed to ensure fellows achieve proficiency across all facets of vascular surgery. The rotations will encompass a diverse caseload, superlative practice in both open and endovascular approaches, as well as exposure to associated specialties. This diversified training prepares fellows to become competent, well-rounded vascular surgeons upon completion of the program.

Fellowship Requirements

To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must submit a number of key documents through the ERAS platform. These required documents include:

• ERAS Application
• ERAS CV Form
• Personal Statement
• Three current letters of recommendation, including one from the current program director (letters must be dated within six months)
• Copy of medical school diploma
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE or Dean's Letter)
• ABSITE scores from all years
• USMLE transcript showing scores for Steps 1, 2CK, 2CS, and 3
• Recent photograph

Visa Sponsorship

The fellowship program is committed to supporting international applicants and offers sponsorship for various visa types as needed. This typically includes J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating a broader accessibility for qualified candidates interested in participating in the training program.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Vascular Surgery Fellowship at East Carolina University is considered a highly competitive program, attracting a diverse pool of applicants. While it maintains a rigorous selection process, it is noted for being friendly towards both DO and IMG candidates, thereby increasing opportunities for qualified individuals from various medical backgrounds.

Overall, the Vascular Surgery Fellowship at East Carolina University offers comprehensive training, ample research opportunities, and a supportive learning environment necessary to develop into a skilled vascular surgeon.