Johns Hopkins University Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship Program at Johns Hopkins University provides an outstanding opportunity for surgeons to enhance their expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery. It is a one-year program that is highly esteemed for its comprehensive clinical training and research components. The fellowship is designed for individuals who have completed a residency in plastic surgery or orthopedic surgery, ensuring that participating fellows have a strong foundation in surgical principles and practices.

Program Structure & Goals

The Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery Fellowship combines both plastic and orthopedic surgery training to develop a well-rounded hand surgeon who can proficiently manage a wide array of pathologies affecting the hand and upper extremities. The program's emphasis on integrated training helps fellows become adept in managing bones, joints, tendons, muscles, skin, soft tissue, and vascular and nerve issues related to hand and upper extremity surgery.13

Clinical Experience

Fellows are exposed to a diverse range of cases and clinical settings, as the training incorporates rotations through various facilities associated with Johns Hopkins, including:

• Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center: Focus on plastic surgery hand services and acute care.
• The Johns Hopkins Hospital: Orthopedic hand surgery services.
• Participating Clinical Faculty: Opportunities to work on unique cases outside of Johns Hopkins.

Fellows will participate in treating patients across all age groups, covering both acute and chronic disorders of the hand.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral part of the fellowship. Each fellow is expected to complete one research project during their tenure, contributing to the broader body of knowledge in hand surgery and advancing clinical practices.

Eligibility Requirements

The program is ACGME-accredited and accepts one fellow per year. Candidates must be board eligible and preferably from accredited U.S. or Canadian residency programs in orthopaedic or plastic surgery. Completion of the program results in eligibility to apply for the certification examination in surgery of the hand through their respective boards.3

Application Process

The process includes participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) under the Combined Musculoskeletal Matching Program. Interested candidates are required to submit a completed application via the ASSH Hand Fellowship Application portal, along with three letters of recommendation and their curriculum vitae.1

Support for International Fellows

For international medical graduates, appropriate medical qualifications and ECFMG certification are required for acceptance into the program. There is support for visa sponsorship, which may include J-1 and H-1B visas depending on the fellow's situation. The program is favorable towards accommodating international applicants, promoting a global perspective in surgical practice.1

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at Johns Hopkins is regarded as highly competitive, attracting numerous applicants annually from various surgical backgrounds, typically with about 70 candidates applying for a single position.10

Special application requirements may include significant clinical experience in general surgery or related fields, board eligibility status, and completion of USMLE steps as mandated by the program standards. Additionally, candidates are encouraged to showcase individual accomplishments, whether through research contributions, publications, or advanced clinical skills developed during residency training.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship leverages a multidisciplinary approach, with fellows gaining experience across various settings and specialties, including specialized procedures related to limb loss such as vascularized composite tissue allotransplantation. This not only enriches the fellowship experience but also enhances the skill set required for complex surgical interventions.2

In addition to regular clinical duties, fellows have unique opportunities to participate in the innovative areas of hand transplantation and advanced prosthetic solutions, solidifying their role in leading-edge surgical practices.5

Moreover, with interdepartmental collaboration, fellows are encouraged to engage in comprehensive patient care models that encompass various medical and surgical disciplines.

Living Conditions

Johns Hopkins is located in Baltimore, Maryland, a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and educational opportunities. Baltimore's diverse community offers a unique blend of urban vitality and historic charm, making it an attractive location for fellows to live and work.

The fellowship's structure and resources foster an environment conducive to growth, learning, and professional development, preparing fellows for successful careers in hand surgery. The program’s robust support structure, along with its commitment to research and innovation, enables fellows to emerge as leaders in the field.4