NYU Grossman School of Medicine Program

Overview of the Hand Surgery Fellowship

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, established through the Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, is dedicated to training future leaders in hand surgery. This fellowship emphasizes the management of various hand anomalies, injuries, and diseases through a comprehensive curriculum designed to refine both clinical and surgical skills.

Clinical Training Components

Fellows participate in extensive clinical training, gaining hands-on experience in a multitude of clinical settings. The program offers unmatched exposure to acute trauma cases via rotations at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. Here, fellows work on the hand replantation team, managing primary and secondary reconstructive cases, including those resulting from rheumatoid arthritis and congenital anomalies.

At NYU Langone’s Tisch Hospital and Kimmel Pavilion, fellows primarily engage with elective reconstructive cases, which aids in the development of systematic diagnostic skills and innovative care approaches. The fellowship also includes rotations at NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn, a certified Level 1 Trauma Center, allowing fellows to perform traumatic brachial plexus explorations and participate in lower extremity reconstructions.

Didactic and Educational Experience

The fellowship includes structured didactic training through journal clubs, case presentations, and conferences. Fellows attend a weekly combined conference with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, enhancing their understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to patient care. The program encourages participation in grand rounds and resident educational conferences to foster teaching and mentoring skills.

Research Opportunities

Research is a significant component of the fellowship. Fellows are strongly encouraged to pursue clinical research initiatives and present their findings at national and international meetings. Monthly cadaver labs are available for exploration and research of various techniques, and access to educational laboratory facilities enhances the research experience.

Length of Training

The fellowship is a 12-month program starting from July 1 to June 30, allowing for an immersive experience in both clinical and research activities.

Acceptance Requirements and Application Process

The fellowship is accredited to train two fellows each year. Candidates must have completed an accredited residency in plastic surgery, general surgery, or orthopedic surgery in the United States or equivalent training internationally. Applications should be submitted 12 months prior to the fellowship start date, with all application materials due by February 1. Candidates must also file with the National Residency Matching Program.

State Licensure and Visa Support

Candidates must hold a New York license or a limited permit. International graduates need to possess an Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate. The program offers visa support, primarily for J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating residency for international medical graduates.

Competitiveness and Diversity

This fellowship program is considered competitive, reflecting the high interest levels in subspecialty training in hand surgery. However, it is also committed to diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applications from DO, IMG, and students from different backgrounds.

Conclusion

The NYU Grossman School of Medicine's Hand Surgery Fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of skilled hand surgeons through a robust curriculum that balances clinical experience, research opportunities, and collaborative learning environments.