Ohio State University Hospital Program

The Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program at The Ohio State University provides a comprehensive educational experience aimed at developing fellows into proficient surgical oncologists. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, focusing on the synergy between surgical and non-surgical therapies. This thorough training is designed to equip fellows with the skills necessary to manage complex cancer-related situations while also addressing topics such as survivorship, palliative care, pain management, and nutritional support.

Program Structure

The fellowship lasts two years, consisting of 20 months dedicated to clinical rotations and 4 months to research opportunities. An optional third year may be available for fellows who wish to engage in a dedicated research experience. During their time at the Ohio State University, fellows gain exposure to a broad range of surgical oncology disciplines including hepatopancreatobiliary cancers, gastrointestinal cancers, breast cancer, melanoma, sarcoma, and endocrine tumors.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows participate in disease-focused rotations at the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Research Institute and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. The first year emphasizes a diverse exposure to various malignancies, while the second year allows for greater specialization based on the fellow's interests. Notable rotations include:

• **Gastrointestinal Oncology** - Focusing on complex GI malignancies, palliative management, and integrating surgical options with ongoing therapies.
• **Endocrine Surgery** - Training includes performing diagnostic ultrasounds and complex operations related to endocrine malignancies.
• **Breast Cancer** - Expectations include participation in tumor boards and collaborative care with plastic surgeons for reconstruction options.
• **Melanoma/Sarcoma** - Examining management protocols for skin and soft tissue cancers.
• **Robotic Surgery** - Fellows gain hands-on experience with robotic surgical applications supported by didactic courses and lab simulations.

Research and Mentorship

A significant component of the fellowship includes dedicated research time—four months are allocated specifically for research projects. Opportunities include engaging in ongoing programs or initiating new projects within a supportive and well-funded research environment. Fellows are expected to submit at least one first-author paper and one abstract annually. The program emphasizes mentorship, pairing fellows with advisors based on their interests early in the fellowship. Regular meetings ensure that fellows receive guidance and support throughout their academic and clinical endeavors.

Educational Goals

The educational objectives of the fellowship include:

• Advanced understanding of multidimensional care in solid tumors.
• Skill development in both surgical techniques and patient management strategies including multidisciplinary discussions.
• Active participation in scholarly activities, conferences, and publication of research findings.

Didactic Learning

Fellows engage in didactic learning through weekly conferences focused on disease site-specific topics, landmark clinical trials, and preparation for surgical oncology boards. Additional conferences address career development and real-world surgical practice challenges.

Application Process and Competitiveness

Applicants must have completed residency training in an ACGME-accredited general surgery program in the U.S. or Canada, and must be eligible to sit for the American Board of Surgery examination. The program is competitive and seeks candidates who exhibit a strong commitment to surgical oncology.

Visa Support

The fellowship program supports visa applications for international medical graduates, with the potential to sponsor J-1 or H-1B visas. Details on specific visa sponsorship can be discussed with the program administration during the application process.

Unique Opportunities

The program nurtures fellows to become leaders in academic surgical oncology, offering them the flexibility to pursue individual research interests in addition to surgical education. With a faculty composed of experts engaged in leading national cancer trials, fellows gain exposure to significant advancements in cancer treatment and research.