Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program

The Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship Program at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans is an ACGME accredited multisite program, offering specialized training in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery. The program spans two years for Urology and three years for Urogynecology fellows, providing an extensive educational experience in this subspecialty.

The fellowship encompasses multiple training sites within the New Orleans metropolitan area as well as in Baton Rouge. Major facilities include the University Medical Center of New Orleans, Touro Infirmary, East Jefferson General Hospital, and Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. This geographic diversity facilitates exposure to a wide range of complex pelvic floor disorders, enhancing the training experience through varied patient demographics and conditions 1.

Curriculum Overview

Fellows in this program engage in a rigorous curriculum designed to provide comprehensive training in both Urology and Gynecology. The faculty consists of board-certified or board-eligible Urogynecologists and Female Urologists, some of whom are recognized nationally in their fields. Training includes advanced methodologies in pelvic floor reconstruction, urodynamics, neurourology, voiding dysfunction, urinary diversions, and defecatory dysfunction 1.

Fellows receive hands-on experience in surgical techniques including vaginal, abdominal, and minimally invasive approaches. Additionally, the program offers collaborative rotations with colorectal surgery and pelvic floor physical therapy, reinforcing a comprehensive understanding of pelvic health management 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral part of the fellowship, with requirements tailored over the course of training. Gynecology fellows have a three-year timeline to fulfill their research obligations while Urology fellows have a two-year timeframe. This ensures that fellows contribute to and engage in clinical or basic research activities essential for advancing knowledge in the field of Urogynecology 1.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for this fellowship, candidates must have satisfactorily completed an ACGME-accredited residency in Obstetrics or Urology. For international medical graduates, ECFMG certification is a prerequisite. The program has a specified number of fellows, with three total positions and one fellow accepted per year, making it a moderately competitive opportunity for interested applicants 1.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship offers a structured salary based on the PGY level, with additional benefits including comprehensive health insurance options, malpractice coverage, disability insurance, and educational leave for attending medical meetings. Vacation leave varies across training levels: PGY 1 receives 21 days, while PGY 2 and above receive 28 days of vacation leave. Sick leave is also provided 4.

Training Facilities

The fellowship training occurs at premier institutions that are essential for the educational experience. The University Medical Center New Orleans serves as the “home base” where fellows engage with various specialized services. The collaboration with Touro Infirmary offers unique opportunities in high-risk obstetrics, while East Jefferson General Hospital enriches the fellowship experience with its community-focused services 5.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The fellowship is recognized for its competitive nature; however, it is also considered to be friendly towards DO and IMG applicants, adding diversity to the pool of candidates. The program supports visa applicants by providing services for H-1B visas and J-1 visa sponsorship, ensuring that international graduates can participate without immigration hindrances 1.

Fellowships and Meet the Fellows

The fellowship includes mentorship opportunities from established professionals, enhancing the learning curve for trainees. Current fellows represent a diverse educational background, fostering an inclusive environment for both academic and clinical learning 5.

Living in New Orleans

New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture, culinary diversity, and year-round festivals, provides a rich backdrop for both personal and professional life. The city offers numerous social activities, and its healthcare facilities are an integral part of the community fabric 6.