Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

Overview of the Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship

The Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital is a one-year ACGME-accredited program designed to provide comprehensive training in the field of colorectal surgery. The program aims to develop competent, confident colorectal surgeons through a combination of structured didactics, surgical mentorship, and substantial clinical exposure. The fellowship is part of a well-established academic medical center renowned for its advanced surgical techniques and patient care.

Training Environment

Training primarily occurs at Henry Ford Hospital, a tertiary care facility with a deep commitment to oncology and complex surgical care. This setting allows fellows to interact with a diverse patient population across various socio-economic backgrounds. In addition to being the main training site, fellows also have access to other Henry Ford facilities, including two additional hospitals and several outpatient clinics.

Clinical Experience and Case Volume

The fellowship offers an extensive surgical case volume, including approximately 450 anorectal cases and 550 abdominal cases annually. Among these, fellows will participate in about 200 laparoscopic and 200 robotic surgeries each year. The emphasis on minimally invasive and advanced techniques ensures that fellows gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art procedures such as robotic-assisted surgeries and transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME).

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is comprehensive, emphasizing both surgical and non-surgical management of a range of colorectal conditions. This includes training in traditional open surgery, laparoscopic techniques, robotic surgery, and advanced endoscopy. The fellow has the autonomy to tailor their weekly schedule according to specific educational needs and interests, thereby maximizing their expertise in clinically relevant areas.

Didactic Education

Weekly didactic sessions consist of a thorough review of the ASCRS textbook and engaging discussions led by faculty. These sessions enhance the fellow's understanding of complex surgical concepts and keep them abreast of the latest developments in colorectal surgery. The education program is complemented by participation in tumor board meetings, which foster interdisciplinary collaboration and complex case discussions.

Research Opportunities

Henry Ford's fellowship program actively encourages research, allowing fellows to engage in scholarly activities that culminate in presentations at significant conferences, such as the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Annual Scientific Meeting. The support for research extends to access to vital databases and statistical assistance, thereby enhancing the fellow's ability to contribute to the field.

Research and Faculty Support

The fellowship's faculty comprises highly experienced surgeons committed to teaching and mentorship. This supportive environment is essential for the personal and professional development of fellows, ensuring they are well-prepared for independent practice post-fellowship.

Special Application Requirements

The application process utilizes the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and interviews typically occur in the fall months. Candidates must possess a strong background in general surgery and demonstrate proficiency through prior training and examinations. Specific criteria regarding graduation year or maximum failure in STEP exams may be enforced, fostering a competitive but accessible application landscape for both DO and IMG candidates.

Visa Sponsorship and International Medical Graduates

The program is supportive of international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorships for qualified candidates, thereby facilitating a diverse cohort of fellows. Generally, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, which are common for fellows coming from abroad.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of this fellowship is the structured autonomy granted to fellows; they are encouraged to manage their schedules and participate actively in teaching rotating medical students and general surgery residents. This hands-on mentorship experience vastly contributes to their growth as educators themselves, further enriching their surgical expertise.

Fellow Testimonials

Many fellows have expressed satisfaction with the program, highlighting its high case volume and diversity in surgical methods. Testimonials underscore the supportive culture among faculty, enabling fellows to gain confidence and competence as they progress through their training.

Benefits of Training in an Academic Medical Center

The association with various specialized departments enhances fellows' training, particularly regarding complex cases involving colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. The integration of advanced technologies and techniques, such as robotic surgery and minimally invasive alternatives, further solidifies the program's commitment to innovation.