Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Phoenix) Program

The Vascular Surgery Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Arizona is designed to provide comprehensive training for fellows pursuing a specialization in vascular surgery. The program spans a total of 24 months and emphasizes exposure to both open and endovascular surgical techniques, promoting a well-rounded experience that prepares fellows for independent practice.

Program Highlights: The fellowship program is characterized by its extensive clinical exposure to a wide range of vascular surgeries, complemented by a strong emphasis on research. Fellows actively participate in numerous trials involving new endovascular devices and are supported in presenting their findings at local and national conferences.1

Curriculum and Clinical Training

The curriculum entails significant clinical training, particularly in the first year, where fellows spend ten months on the vascular surgery service handling both open and endovascular cases while managing inpatient care. One month is allocated for training in the outpatient vascular lab, focusing on ultrasound examinations and a month designated for research activities, which promotes scholarly activity and publication.3

The second year of training involves a full year dedicated to the vascular surgery service, allowing fellows to take on increasing responsibility under the supervision of staff surgeons. Essential endovascular skills will be developed, with the aim of exceeding the minimum requirements set by professional bodies.3

Research Opportunities

Research is fundamental to the fellowship at Mayo Clinic. Each fellow undertakes a clinical research project, with support available for statistical analysis and manuscript editing. The program encourages publication in peer-reviewed journals and provides opportunities to present research at major meetings.3

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty at Mayo Clinic includes leaders in the field of vascular surgery who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring fellows. The program fosters a collaborative environment where fellows benefit from the expertise of faculty members who are actively involved in clinical practice and research.4

Application Process

Positions in the Vascular Surgery Fellowship are highly competitive. One position is offered every other year, with the requirement that applicants have completed an accredited general surgery residency and be eligible for the American Board of Surgery examinations. Applications are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and must be accompanied by a personal interview, which is scheduled in March and April prior to the fellowship year.2

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates. It is capable of sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the application process for candidates from international backgrounds who seek to train in the fellowship program.4

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is notably competitive, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds, including both U.S. and international medical graduates (IMGs). While all candidates must meet the standard eligibility criteria, the program is supportive of applicants with DO degrees as well.2

Evaluation and Feedback

Fellows receive continuous evaluation throughout their training, with formal assessments conducted after each clinical rotation. This structured feedback process is designed to ensure that fellows meet the program's expectations while also fulfilling their personal educational needs.3