Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Medical College of Wisconsin Neurological Surgery Residency Program offers a comprehensive seven-year training program with rotations through Froedtert Hospital, Children's Wisconsin, and the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center. Accepting one or two new residents annually, this program focuses on developing a well-rounded neurosurgeon through a mixture of clinical practice, surgical experience, and research.

The program begins with the PGY1 year, laying a strong foundation in general surgical experiences and neurosurgical basics. PGY2-4 years progressively enhance residents' operative and perioperative skills, including rotations in adult and pediatric neurosurgery, neurocritical care, and elective rotations in subspecialties like endovascular and stereotactic radiosurgery. During the PGY5 year, emphasis is placed on basic and clinical research, providing residents with hands-on laboratory experience. The final two years (PGY6-7) are focused on advanced patient management and surgical techniques, with the chief resident gaining administrative experience and elective time.

Educational components include daily rounds, weekly teaching conferences, and special seminars such as Epilepsy Conference, Grand Rounds, Journal Club, and Neuro-Oncology Tumor Board, ensuring comprehensive coverage of neurosurgical patient care and current issues in the field.

The Medical College of Wisconsin may sponsor H-1B visas for residents, indicating support for international medical graduates (IMGs). Preference may be given to IMG applicants within 5 years of their medical school graduation, and fluent English proficiency is required. The program is open to IMGs, and prior US clinical training or advanced degree, while not mandatory, is favorable.

Application requirements and processes follow standard ERAS and NRMP registrations, with the program beginning application reviews in September and offering several interview dates during the winter.

With its broad clinical exposure, solid research opportunities, and a structured educational curriculum, the Medical College of Wisconsin's Neurological Surgery Residency Program aims to prepare its graduates for either private practice or academic neurosurgery, ensuring a strong foundation in both the operative and non-operative aspects of neurosurgery.