SUNY Upstate Medical University Program

The Vascular Surgery Fellowship at SUNY Upstate Medical University offers a comprehensive two-year program designed to enhance the understanding and treatment of vascular diseases. The fellowship is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and is committed to patient-centered care and technological integration in the educational experience. Fellows participate in clinical training across accredited facilities, ensuring they gain invaluable exposure to a diverse patient population and a variety of surgical procedures 1.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The program emphasizes a robust educational structure that includes both didactic and clinical training. Fellows work closely with attending surgeons in inpatient and outpatient settings, cultivating skills in traditional open surgery and minimally invasive endovascular approaches. Opportunities for technical skill development occur in the operating room, catheterization lab, and through direct patient care 3.

Didactic education is a key component of the fellowship, conducted through weekly conferences including case discussions, journal clubs, morbidity and mortality reviews, and grand rounds. Additionally, the fellowship provides substantial clinical training, with exposure to high volumes of both open and endovascular cases, enabling fellows to prepare for the board certification process 3.

Facilities and Training Sites

The fellowship utilizes multiple hospitals, including Upstate University Hospital, Upstate Community Hospital, the Syracuse VA Medical Center, and Crouse Hospital. These facilities are equipped with modern technology and support a wide range of vascular treatment modalities 4. The hybrid operating rooms are outfitted with a state-of-the-art Siemens imaging system and separate surgical areas for open procedures, enhancing the learning environment for trainees 3.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a vital role in the fellowship, with a focus on clinical trials and outcomes research aimed at advancing the understanding of vascular diseases. Fellows are actively engaged in ongoing studies, such as the BEST CLI study, which investigates endovascular versus surgical therapy in cases of critical limb ischemia, providing fellows with the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in vascular surgery 7.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship is supported by a dedicated faculty of board-certified surgeons who are leaders in the field of vascular surgery. Faculty members are involved in various national initiatives aimed at improving vascular surgical practices, and they emphasize the importance of preventive care and patient education 5. Fellows benefit from a collaborative atmosphere, receiving continuous mentorship throughout their training.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must submit their application through ERAS along with essential documents such as a curriculum vitae, medical school transcript, USMLE Step I or COMLEX I scores, a personal statement, Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) or Dean’s letter, and four letters of recommendation from U.S. surgeons familiar with their work 2. The program offers one fellowship position per year, making it a highly competitive pathway for aspiring vascular surgeons. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to enhance their chances of selection.

Visa Support

The program supports various visa types for international medical graduates, allowing them to partake in the fellowship. It is essential for non-U.S. citizens to inquire about specific visa sponsorship opportunities while preparing their applications to ensure compliance with immigration requirements.

Special Considerations for Applicants

While there are no specific limitations cited regarding the year of graduation or failed exams in STEP, candidates are advised to present a strong academic and clinical background through their application materials. This includes showcasing experiences that align with the fellowship's commitment to quality education and patient care.