Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

Upon completing the fully accredited five-year general surgery residency, residents will be qualified to practice independently and eligible for board certification in general surgery. The program offers six categorical positions as well as two one-year preliminary positions, providing a robust clinical experience across all components of general surgery.

The curriculum comprises both a structured didactic program and extensive clinical training. Within the structured didactic curriculum, residents engage in various educational activities including basic science sessions, surgical pathology/radiology, journal club, visiting professor lectures, surgical grand rounds, and both mortality-morbidity and tumor board conferences. This curriculum is aligned with the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) curriculum, developed by the American Board of Surgery, ensuring a comprehensive educational framework for residents 1.

Additionally, the residency is supported by an American College of Surgeons-accredited Surgical Education Center, providing residents with opportunities to develop technical skills through hands-on practice with simulators. Special wet labs using porcine specimens are designed for residents to acquire proficiency in open and laparoscopic anastomotic techniques. A night-float system has been put in place to comply with duty hour regulations, allowing for a balanced residency experience that combines education and clinical service 1.

Research Opportunities

Engagement in clinical research is a vital aspect of the training, with numerous residents participating in projects that lead to publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national meetings. The program provides funding for residents to attend regional and national educational conferences, further bolstering their professional development 1.

Curriculum Highlights

Conferences

The intensive academic curriculum includes weekly didactic presentations that cover fundamental surgical topics such as wound healing, surgical microbiology, and surgical anatomy. Conferences include surgical grand rounds, mortality and morbidity discussions, and curriculum-focused conferences aimed at enhancing the residents' knowledge base 5.

Rotations

The residency is structured over five years, consisting of various rotations that ensure comprehensive exposure to all facets of surgical care. Initial rotations focus on acute patient care, technical skills development, and a mix of general and specialty surgeries. As residents progress, they will gain supervisory experience and deal with increasingly complex surgical procedures 6.

Training Sites

Training occurs primarily within the Lehigh Valley Hospital Network, which includes both the LVH–Cedar Crest and LVH–Muhlenberg campuses, providing a blend of tertiary and community surgical experiences. The network has established itself as a leading center in minimally invasive surgery and houses a Level I Trauma Center, fostering an environment where residents can gain exceptional trauma and critical care exposure 8.

Application Requirements

The program accepts eight applicants annually, with applications processed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must have graduated from medical school before application and are encouraged to demonstrate a strong commitment to surgery, as the program is highly competitive. Specific application instructions detail necessary documentation and deadlines to ensure a smooth application process 3.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates (IMGs), the program offers sponsorship for various visa types, including J-1 and H-1B visas, making it accessible for IMGs seeking surgical training in the United States. Such provisions reflect the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in its residency cohort 1.

Benefits and Salary

Residents enjoy a comprehensive benefits package which includes three weeks of vacation, a stipend for conference attendance, and subscriptions to necessary surgical resources. This enhanced support system aims to facilitate both professional and personal growth throughout the residency 4.