MaineHealth Program

Overview of Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology Fellowship Program

The Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology Fellowship Program at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center (MHMMC) offers comprehensive training for anesthesiology specialists seeking to deepen their expertise in cardiac anesthesiology. The fellowship is integrated within one of the largest cardiothoracic surgical programs in Northern New England, promoting an environment rich with clinical exposure and academic growth.

With a strong emphasis on both didactic and clinical training, the program prepares fellows to master various aspects of cardiac anesthesiology, including preoperative evaluations, intraoperative management, and postoperative care.

Curriculum and Rotations

Fellows participate in a detailed curriculum structured over the course of a year, which includes:

• Cardiac Rotation (26 weeks): Involves managing high-volume cardiac surgical cases, including CABG, heart valve surgeries, and aortic reconstructions. Trainees also gain proficiency in the use of advanced monitoring techniques and postoperative management.
• Vascular/Thoracic Rotation (6 weeks): Focuses on the management of perioperative care for patients undergoing thoracic surgeries and vascular procedures, assisting fellows in developing comprehensive evaluation and management skills.
• Cardiovascular Critical Care (6 weeks): Provides experience in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) and cardiothoracic intensive care unit (CTICU), where fellows learn to care for critically ill cardiovascular patients.
• Electrophysiology Rotation (2 weeks): Fellows engage in the management of electrophysiologic conditions and procedures, enhancing their understanding of cardiac rhythms and interventions.
• Electives (12 weeks): Options may include additional cardiac ultrasound training, perfusion, or rotations in angiography, depending on trainee interests and program approval.

All rotations are hands-on, with fellows expected to participate in patient management and procedural elements actively.2

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program prides itself on its high case volume and the opportunity for fellows to engage in groundbreaking practices. Moreover, the MHMMC is set to complete a major modernization project, enhancing its capabilities with state-of-the-art facilities, significantly expanding the training opportunities for fellows.

Research Opportunities and Scholarly Activities

The Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology Fellowship Program provides fellows with the opportunity to engage in active research projects, contributing to the development of clinical practices within cardiovascular anesthesia. Ongoing projects include clinical trials and registry projects aimed at understanding and improving care in surgical settings.

Fellows are encouraged to present their findings at national conferences and publish their work, fostering an environment focused on advancing the field of anesthesiology and patient care.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

MaineHealth is committed to promoting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. They prioritize creating a training environment that respects and values the differences among individuals, enhancing the educational experience and patient care quality.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program only accepts applicants on a J-1 visa. Candidates must have completed four years of anesthesiology residency training from an ACGME accredited program and be board eligible in anesthesiology to be considered for fellowship positions. The program is competitive, welcoming qualified applicants including international medical graduates.

Application Process

Applications are processed through the San Francisco Match program. Applicants are required to provide documents such as their current curriculum vitae, USMLE or COMLEX transcripts, and letters of recommendation from residency program directors and attending physicians. The selection committee conducts a thorough review and seeks to interview only complete applications.

Living and Working in Portland, Maine

The fellowship experience is enriched by living in Portland, known for its vibrant culture, beauty, and recreational opportunities. The program fosters a collegial environment and strong camaraderie among fellows and faculty, making it an attractive option for aspiring cardiac anesthesiologists.