Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a one-year, ACGME accredited program that combines elements of both Plastic Surgery and Orthopedic Surgery. This fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training in the management of conditions affecting the hand and upper extremity, including advanced arthroscopy techniques as well as addressing peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries. Since its inception in 1988, this fellowship has successfully prepared numerous graduates for fulfilling careers in hand, upper extremity, and microvascular surgery, as well as for attaining the Subspecialty Certificate in Hand Surgery. The fellowship typically accepts two fellows each year.

Program Goals and Objectives

The overarching goal of the Hand Surgery Fellowship is to create a well-monitored academic environment that fosters excellence in essential skills required for diagnosing and treating a range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system and nerves of the upper extremity. The program emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation and encourages fellows to explore and incorporate new technologies into their practice.

Fellows are expected to participate actively in research, producing at least one publishable quality paper by the end of the year. This goal underscores the program's commitment to integrating scientific inquiry into clinical practice, ensuring fellows are well-prepared for the clinical competency certification exam for the Certificate of Added Qualifications in Hand Surgery.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced combination of clinical experience and didactic learning. This includes attending various conferences such as:

• Monday Morning Indications Conference: Discussions of upcoming hand and upper extremity cases.
• Wednesday Hand Surgery Conference: Weekly presentations by faculty, guest speakers, residents, and fellows.
• Friday Book Review: Weekly discussions focusing on literature relevant to hand surgery.
• Bi-monthly Journal Club: Fellow-led discussions on hand surgery literature.
• M&M Conference: A forum for discussing morbidity and mortality cases.
• Anatomy Lab: Offered three times per year for anatomical dissections.

Such a comprehensive approach ensures that fellows develop advanced knowledge and surgical competencies in hand surgery, which are critical for independent practice.

Educational Requirements

The educational framework for the fellowship requires fellows to fulfill several key components:

• Attendance at conferences focusing on fatigue, professionalism, and communication skills.
• Maintenance of an operative case log adhering to ACGME guidelines.
• Supervision and teaching of medical students and residents as appropriate.
• Completion of the research requirements, culminating in the production of a publishable paper.

This rigorous educational model ensures that fellows are well-prepared for the challenges of hand surgery and capable of practicing independently by the conclusion of their training.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants to the Hand Surgery Fellowship must meet specific eligibility criteria to ensure a suitable match for the program's intensive training. These include:

• Completion of an ACGME accredited residency in either Plastic or Orthopedic Surgery.
• Eligibility for Board Certification in one of the aforementioned specialties.
• Possession of, or eligibility for, a State of Wisconsin Medical License.
• A commitment to the one-year duration of the fellowship, typically from August 1 to July 31.

Such rigorous standards guarantee that only the most qualified candidates are considered for this prestigious fellowship.

Application Process

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants under specific categories, ensuring that candidates from diverse backgrounds can participate in this specialized training. Common visa types that the fellowship can sponsor include the J-1 Visa and the H-1B Visa, allowing international medical graduates to train in the program.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The Hand Surgery Fellowship is highly competitive, seeking candidates with exemplary academic records, strong references, and significant clinical experience. The program welcomes applications from both U.S. graduates, as well as DO and International Medical Graduates (IMG), thereby fostering a diverse educational environment. This cultural and academic diversity enriches the learning experience and prepares fellows for a wide range of practice opportunities in hand surgery.

Living in Milwaukee

Milwaukee provides a vibrant backdrop for fellowship training, blending metropolitan conveniences with a rich cultural scene. The city is celebrated for its festivals, such as Summerfest, and its cultural districts, including the Historic Third Ward. Residents and fellows often enjoy a lively environment featuring cafes, restaurants, and scenic riverbanks, creating an ideal setting for both professional development and personal enjoyment.