Rush University Medical Center Program

The Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency at Rush University Medical Center is a newly Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited program lasting six years. The program aims to provide residents with a comprehensive training experience in all areas of the specialty and subspecialties. Rotations are offered at Rush University Medical Center and John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County, as well as in various supplementary specialties.

In the first three years, residents are trained academically and clinically under faculty known for their specialties. They are exposed to a variety of pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative management styles.

In the fourth and fifth years, the focus shifts to fundamentals in plastic surgery, including hand surgery, aesthetic surgery, breast surgery, craniofacial surgery, and microsurgery. Senior residents have the opportunity to customize their program based on individual interests, present papers at meetings and conferences, and deepen their clinical and educational experiences.

To apply, interested candidates need to participate in the National Resident Match Program through ERAS, starting in September. Application requirements include an ERAS application, USMLE data, medical school transcripts, three reference letters, and a personal statement. The program director is Deana Shenaq, MD, and the associate program director is Keith Hood, MD.

The program offers benefits such as access to RUSH University library resources, health insurance, free parking, and a structured educational curriculum. Additionally, residents have opportunities to attend national and local meetings, participate in journal clubs, and engage in cadaver labs and workshops.

Overall, the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency at Rush University Medical Center aims to produce highly competent plastic surgeons capable of excelling in academic or private practice settings. Residents are trained to meet the highest ethical standards and to become potential future leaders in the field.