Mass General Brigham/Massachusetts General Hospital Program

The Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Program at Massachusetts General Hospital is designed to provide residents with a comprehensive education and specialized training in the field of vascular surgery. The program spans a total of seven years, incorporating a five-year general surgery residency followed by two years dedicated to vascular surgery.

The program integrates closely with the Mass General Surgical Residency Program, graduating two residents each year. Throughout this rigorous training, residents develop essential skills such as diagnosing abnormalities in the vascular system, formulating personalized treatment plans, and executing a wide range of surgical and endovascular reconstructive procedures. A strong emphasis is placed on both pre and post-operative management of patients with vascular disease.

By the completion of the residency, graduates will be proficient in the management of various vascular conditions including aneurysmal disease, congenital malformations, cerebrovascular disease, and venous diseases. Additionally, they will be well-versed in open and endovascular treatment principles, including the use of diagnostic angiography and interventional procedures.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to ensure that by the conclusion of their training, residents acquire the necessary skills in diagnosing and managing diseases affecting the arterial, venous, and lymphatic systems. Specific areas of focus include:

• Aneurysmal disease: includes infrarenal, thoracoabdominal, visceral, and peripheral aneurysms.
• Cerebrovascular disease: primarily involving extracranial conditions such as carotid bifurcation and aortic arch anomalies.
• Venous diseases: addressing issues such as varicose veins, deep venous thrombosis, and reflux.
• Wound healing strategies: important for patients with chronic venous insufficiency and other vascular conditions.

Clinical Experience

The program ensures that residents have hands-on experience with both open surgical and endovascular procedures. Key procedures include:

Open Surgical Procedures

• Aortic aneurysm repairs
• Carotid endarterectomy
• Central line placements
• Extra-anatomic bypass
• Treatment of varicose veins
• Vascular access constructions
• Thromboembolectomy and other interventions

Endovascular Procedures

• Atherectomy
• Balloon angioplasty and stenting
• Endovascular aneurysm repair
• Embolization techniques
• Thrombolysis

Throughout the training, residents will also engage in the learning and application of noninvasive vascular laboratory testing, gaining comprehensive knowledge in the interpretation of various diagnostic tests related to vascular health.

Application Requirements

Interested candidates must present a complete application package via ERAS, including:

• Four letters of reference, with one being from the medical school dean.
• Curriculum vitae and a recent photo.
• Personal statement and USMLE transcripts (steps 1, 2, and 3).

Formal interviews are conducted after an initial review of applications, with opportunities for applicants to meet current residents and staff, as well as engage in tours of the facilities.

Visa Sponsorship

The program is equipped to support international applicants, offering sponsorship for the necessary visa types, including J-1 (Exchange Visitor) and H-1B (Specialty Occupation) visas. This facilitates a diverse and inclusive training environment for residents from various backgrounds.

Competitiveness

The Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Program is highly competitive, attracting candidates with strong academic backgrounds and excellent performance on the USMLE exams. The program is also welcoming to international medical graduates (IMGs) and graduates from doctor of osteopathy (DO) schools, ensuring a diverse cohort.