Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Phoenix) Program

Mayo Clinic offers a one-year Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship on its Phoenix/Scottsdale campus. This program aims to deepen the expertise of trainees in various aspects of colon and rectal surgery, incorporating hands-on clinical experience alongside a robust academic framework.

Program Highlights

The fellowship includes multiple key features designed to ensure comprehensive training:

• Extensive exposure to laparoscopic procedures on the colorectal service.
• Opportunities for performing preoperative examinations in an outpatient clinic setting.
• Focus on postoperative care planning and management strategies.
• Personalized career development pathways for each fellow.
• Substantial research opportunities, including project work and presentations at both internal and external conferences.
• One-on-one mentorship with double-boarded faculty members certified in both Colon and Rectal Surgery and General Surgery.
• Collaboration with related specialties such as gynecology and radiology.

Curriculum Structure

During the fellowship, clinical training is a vital component, with fellows closely engaging with colon and rectal surgery faculty. This encompasses:

• Conducting preoperative patient evaluations.
• Participating in operative procedures across various clinical contexts.
• Managing postoperative care and responding to emergency colorectal situations.
• Hands-on experience in minimally invasive surgery and enhanced recovery protocols.

Fellows will complete thirteen four-week rotations, each conducted under the supervision of a dedicated consultant, providing vital one-on-one mentorship. Core areas of focus during rotations include endoscopy and treatment of anorectal diseases. Furthermore, fellows are introduced to innovative techniques involving assessments like anorectal manometry and collaboration with enterostomal therapists for stoma management.

Academic and Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes a strong academic component through:

• Regular participation in bi-weekly educational conferences focused on case presentations and didactic lectures based on the ASCRS textbook.
• A cadaver-based curriculum that incorporates cutting-edge surgical techniques.
• Weekly morbidity and mortality (M&M) conferences, journal clubs, and discussion of related pathology and radiology studies.

Research is a significant focus, with access to specialized resources, including a research analyst and biostatistical support, enabling fellows to engage deeply in scholarly activities. Researchers are expected to collaborate actively on publications and presentations throughout the fellowship duration.

Application Process and Eligibility

The fellowship admits one fellow annually on a competitive basis. Applicants must meet specific qualifications to be considered:

• Completion or impending completion of an ACGME-accredited colorectal surgery residency program.
• International candidates must demonstrate equivalent training and pass the ECFMG examination.

Applications are processed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and must include various supporting documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a valid ECFMG certificate when applicable. A composite USMLE score of at least 201 is required for consideration.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty at Mayo Clinic comprises experts recognized for their contributions to the field of colon and rectal surgery. Faculty members not only deliver surgical services but also actively participate in teaching and research activities. Fellows will have direct access to seasoned surgeons whose areas of interest encompass a range of conditions and procedural techniques related to colorectal disease.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program provides visa sponsorship for applicants who require it, facilitating J-1 or H-1B visa processes for eligible international medical graduates. The competitive nature of the fellowship demands a robust application due to a limited number of positions available each year, making it an appealing yet competitive choice for prospective candidates.

Special Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the program's distinct prerequisites, which include not exceeding a certain number of failed STEP examinations and adhering to specific graduation timelines as assessed during the selection process. This structured approach ensures that only those who demonstrate exceptional performance and readiness are accepted into the program.