Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

The Vascular Surgery Fellowship at Henry Ford Health is a well-established program focused on training future vascular surgeons in a comprehensive clinical environment. The fellowship offers extensive exposure to both open and endovascular surgical techniques, preparing fellows to handle a wide array of vascular conditions.

Program Structure

The fellowship is a two-year clinical training program that emphasizes patient care, research, and the acquisition of both endovascular and operative skills. Fellows are integrated into a multidisciplinary surgical team, which includes senior staff surgeons, advanced practice providers, nurse case managers, and clinical staff working collaboratively in various settings such as outpatient clinics and operating rooms.

Fellows participate in comprehensive didactic training, including regular conferences and journal clubs that address both the fundamental concepts and recent advancements in vascular surgery, fostering both knowledge acquisition and skill advancement.

Clinical Rotations

During the fellowship, trainees will engage in multiple clinical settings where they will gain hands-on experience managing patients with simple and complex vascular conditions. Key aspects include:

• Open operative management procedures such as carotid and aortic reconstructions, lower extremity procedures, and dialysis access surgeries.
• Endovascular techniques, including balloon angioplasty, stent placement, and thrombolysis.
• Participation in an integrated vascular surgical clinic and hybrid operating rooms, receiving mentorship and support from senior surgeons.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to engage in research activities, providing various opportunities to participate in multi-institutional studies, including the NIH-sponsored CREST trial. Research areas typically explore advancements in open aortic surgery, lower extremity revascularization, and innovative endovascular therapies. A fully operational vascular registry aids in collecting and analyzing relevant data, which adds value to the fellows' research experience.

Unique Aspects

One of the distinctive features of the Vascular Surgery Fellowship at Henry Ford is its innovative approach, including the use of state-of-the-art technology in hybrid operating rooms and a robust simulation center that enhances training in both open and endovascular techniques. The curriculum integrates comprehensive patient management processes ensuring that fellows not only gain technical skills but also develop the ability to make sound clinical decisions.

Application Requirements

To apply for this highly competitive fellowship, candidates must have completed a five-year ACGME-accredited general surgery residency. The application process typically begins two years prior to entering fellowship. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on their academic performance, surgical skills, and potential for success in the field of vascular surgery.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The fellowship is considered highly competitive, welcoming applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds, as well as international medical graduates. The program is committed to diversity and international inclusion and offers visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types.

Living in Detroit

Detroit, home to the Henry Ford Hospital, is an exciting city with a rich cultural scene, abundant outdoor activities, and reasonable living costs. The hospital is situated in a vibrant area that allows easy access to various cultural and recreational attractions, enhancing the overall experience of fellows as they balance their demanding training with personal enrichment.

Life After Fellowship

Graduates of the fellowship achieve prominent positions in both academic and clinical settings. The program emphasizes preparing its fellows to become leaders in vascular surgery, equipping them with the skills necessary for diverse career paths. Alumni report strong confidence in managing complex cases, thanks to the breadth of exposure and experience gained during their training.