Rush University Medical Center Program

The RUSH University Medical Center Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Fellowship is a distinguished program with a rich history, having been established in 1988. It is designed to provide comprehensive training in both open and endovascular surgical techniques. The fellowship program emphasizes surgical judgment and technical skills, preparing fellows for a successful career in vascular surgery while maintaining a supportive and collaborative environment.

This fellowship consists of a two-year program that operates in a variety of settings, including the RUSH University Medical Center, RUSH Oak Park Hospital, RUSH Oakbrook, and RUSH Copley. Fellows gain exposure to different vascular practice models across academic and community hospitals, enhancing their clinical versatility and breadth of experience in diverse patient interactions 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured around two primary rotations: University and Community vascular services. During the first year, fellows focus on acquiring foundational vascular skills, managing inpatient and outpatient vascular pathologies, and developing both open and endovascular techniques. The second year deepens these skills, with an increased emphasis on advanced operative techniques and responsibilities in patient care and team management 2.

Clinical Experience and Operative Training

Fellows are actively involved in the management of patients, participating in the full spectrum of diagnostic, perioperative, and operative care. They gain hands-on experience in numerous procedures, including but not limited to carotid disease management, lower extremity revascularizations, visceral reconstructions, and endovenous interventions for venous insufficiency 2. The program aims to ensure that fellows are proficient in performing a wide range of vascular procedures by the end of their training.

Research Opportunities

Academic involvement is a crucial component of the fellowship. Fellows are expected to engage in research activities and contribute to weekly conferences, which encompass a variety of topics relevant to vascular surgery, including mortality and morbidity reviews and preoperative planning discussions 2. This exposure is vital for fostering academic growth and critical thinking skills essential for their future careers.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the fellowship is competitive. Applicants must have completed five years of general surgery training before entering the program. The fellowship utilizes a match system for selection, and candidates are required to provide at least three letters of recommendation, including one from their surgery department chair. Additional documentation includes recent examination scores and visa documentation if applicable 3.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international applicants and can sponsor J-1 visas for fellowship positions. However, applicants must meet specific documentation and procedural requirements as outlined during the application process.

Salary and Benefits

In terms of compensation, the fellowship provides competitive salaries, with PGY-6 fellows earning approximately $75,202 and PGY-7 fellows earning about $77,939. RUSH also offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional development of its fellows 4.

Unique Features of the Program

RUSH University Medical Center is recognized as a premier tertiary-quaternary referral center, providing a robust clinical environment for fellows. The integration of innovative technologies and a commitment to research enhance the educational experience. Furthermore, RUSH actively promotes diversity and community engagement, which enriches the training atmosphere and prepares fellows for a range of career opportunities.

By choosing the RUSH University Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Fellowship, prospective fellows gain access to a program that is not only committed to excellence in surgical education but also fosters a collaborative and research-driven environment.