Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesia Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a one-year ACGME-approved program designed to provide comprehensive clinical training and research opportunities in cardiovascular anesthesia. This fellowship offers a flexible curriculum tailored for individuals interested in pursuing either academic or clinical career paths in anesthesiology.

Clinical Training Experience

Fellows gain extensive experience in the perioperative management of patients undergoing a variety of advanced cardiac surgical procedures including coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on and off cardiopulmonary bypass, valve replacements and repairs, aortic surgery, and heart and lung transplantation. The program emphasizes practical experience, providing fellows with the opportunity to manage complex cases involving temporary and durable ventricular assist devices, total artificial heart implantation, and various highly specialized techniques.

Fellows also have the opportunity to work within the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU), enhancing their skills in postoperative care. Intraoperative training in transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a significant component of the fellowship, ensuring that fellows are fully prepared for National Board of Echocardiography certification in Advanced Perioperative TEE. Specific training venues include dedicated rotations in the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center Echocardiography Laboratory and state-of-the-art simulation facilities.

Clinical Rotations

The structure of the fellowship includes specific clinical rotations that are as follows:

• Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center Echo: 1 month
• Froedtert Hospital Hearts: 5 months
• CVICU at Froedtert Hospital: 1 month

The rotations are designed to provide exposure to a spectrum of cardiac cases, ensuring a well-rounded clinical education.

Research Opportunities

In addition to clinical training, fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical or basic science research. This experience is vital for developing the necessary skills to conduct independent research and contribute to the field of cardiovascular anesthesiology.

Application Process

To apply, prospective fellows must complete the MCW Affiliated Hospitals Graduate Medical Education Application Form and submit it to the Education Program Coordinator. Important application components typically include a personal statement, curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. Usually, J-1 and H-1B visa types are supported, allowing qualified candidates to pursue their fellowship training in the United States.

Competitiveness

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesia Fellowship is recognized as a highly competitive program. The fellowship welcomes applications from all medical graduates, including those with degrees from DO and IMG backgrounds. However, candidates need to demonstrate strong academic performance and clinical skills during their training and interviews.

Application Requirements

Specific requirements for applicants typically include completed USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS, as well as strong letters of recommendation. Candidates are generally expected to have graduated from medical school within a certain timeframe and may have specific limits concerning failed Step exams.

Overall, the fellowship provides a rich educational environment, combining hands-on clinical experience with opportunities for academic growth, research involvement, and peer collaboration, creating a comprehensive training experience for future leaders in the field of cardiothoracic anesthesiology.