Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

Overview of the Program

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin offers advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients with epilepsy across all age groups. The program has been operational since 1991 and is one of the pioneering epilepsy programs in the state, providing a programmatic approach aimed at achieving seizure freedom while minimizing medication side effects.

The center employs a multidisciplinary team, encompassing specialists from the Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Neuroradiology, making it a state-of-the-art institution that tailors treatment plans to the individual needs of each patient.1

Clinical Services

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Center is equipped with several advanced diagnostic tools, including Video-EEG monitoring, Ambulatory-EEG, and Invasive Intracranial EEG studies. Other diagnostic options include high-resolution MR imaging specifically tailored for epilepsy, fMRI, SPECT, and PET imaging. Additionally, the center offers specialized treatments like Vagus Nerve Stimulation, ketogenic diets, and access to clinical trials for anticonvulsants.1

With adult and pediatric components located in adjacent facilities, the center features separate epilepsy monitoring units to accommodate both adult and child patients. The Adult Epilepsy Center is noted for its Joint Commission International certification, ensuring high standards in care.1

Research and Development

The program has a strong focus on research, particularly in the field of neuroimaging. It hosts a well-established magnetoencephalography (MEG) laboratory and contributes to several NIH-funded research programs, including studies evaluating the role of fMRI in presurgical localization.1

The Department also engages in multidisciplinary translational research, which benefits from access to various advanced imaging technologies, thereby enhancing the quality of both patient care and educational opportunities for fellows and residents.1

Fellowship Structure and Curriculum

The fellowship program at the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center incorporates comprehensive clinical training along with opportunities for research. It offers dedicated rotations in both adult and pediatric epilepsy services, allowing fellows to gain proficiency in managing diverse epilepsy cases.1

Fellows are involved in case reviews, patient management discussions, and hands-on procedures, ensuring that they are prepared for independent practice in epilepsy care by the time they complete the program.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Adult and Pediatric Epilepsy Centers are both designated Level 4 epilepsy centers by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, marking them as the highest-rated facilities for comprehensive epilepsy care. This recognition illustrates the program's commitment to providing thorough evaluations, advanced neurodiagnostic techniques, and comprehensive treatments, including surgical interventions.1

The program also offers monthly support groups for patients and families, focusing on educational initiatives and sharing experiences related to living with epilepsy.1

Visa Support and Application Competitiveness

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Center offers visa sponsorship opportunities for international medical graduates, including J-1 and H-1B visas. The program is known for being friendly towards DO and IMG candidates, thus encouraging diverse applications.2

Application Requirements

While specific application details can vary, typical requirements include completion of medical education and possibly some clinical experience in neurology or related fields. International applicants should ensure they meet the program's standards, particularly regarding examination performance and graduation timelines.2

The program is generally competitive, looking for candidates who demonstrate a strong academic foundation and commitment to the field of neurology and epilepsy.