Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Program

The Plastic Surgery Fellowship at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare residents for complete practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The program emphasizes quality instruction and experience in a wide range of plastic surgery areas, covering both functional and aesthetic management of congenital and acquired defects throughout the body. Residents progress through competencies in various areas, including patient care, medical knowledge, practice-based learning, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism, and systems-based practice.

Throughout the three-year program, residents cover a variety of surgical areas, including congenital defects of the head and neck, neoplasms of the head and neck, craniomaxillofacial trauma, aesthetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, burn management, microsurgical techniques, and more. The program focuses on developing surgical judgment and technical capability to achieve satisfactory results.

Residents receive training in basic sciences integrated with clinical training, attending didactic sessions, conferences, and lectures to expand their knowledge. Faculty members provide one-on-one teaching on specific cases and problems encountered during patient care. The program encourages a balanced exposure to various areas of plastic surgery, but residents with a specialized interest can pursue fellowships or additional training in a specific area.

The Plastic Surgery Fellowship at PCOM follows a competency-based system with clear goals and objectives for each rotation over the three-year period. By the end of the program, residents are expected to demonstrate competence in independently practicing plastic surgery. The close working relationship between residents and faculty members allows for continuous assessment of competencies and achievement of program goals.

Overall, the Plastic Surgery Fellowship at PCOM aims to produce clinically and professionally competent independent surgeons in the field of plastic surgery. Residents are expected to gain a thorough understanding of medico-legal and psychiatric aspects of plastic surgery practice and develop skills in patient evaluation and documentation of consent agreements. Upon completion of the program, residents are well-equipped to provide comprehensive care in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.