Temple University Hospital/Fox Chase Cancer Center Program

The Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center, part of Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, is a prestigious two-year program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and certified by the Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO). Established in 1986, the fellowship has a rich tradition of training skilled surgical oncologists, with an option for graduates to extend their training with 1-2 years of research. Each year, three fellows are accepted into the program through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), fostering a competitive selection process which values both American and International Medical Graduates.

Curriculum Overview

The program offers comprehensive training owing to its robust curriculum which encompasses a wide array of surgical oncology disciplines. Clinical rotations aim to equip fellows with the necessary expertise to practice proficiently in varied settings and across diverse disease sites. With a focus on high-volume surgeries, fellows gain exposure to complex procedures, including cytoreductive surgeries and advanced minimally invasive techniques.

Clinical Rotations

Core rotations in the first year include Gastrointestinal (GI), Hepatobiliary (HPB), Sarcoma, Melanoma, and others, ensuring wide-ranging exposure. The second year shifts focus to preparing for independent practice with intensive rotations in the core CGSO areas, allowing for specialization before graduation.

Educational Didactics

To support the fellows’ education, the program emphasizes high-yield lectures along with opportunities for multi-disciplined collaboration. This includes participation in weekly tumor boards, preoperative planning, and educational didactic sessions aimed at enhancing clinical acumen.

Robotic Surgery Curriculum

Recognizing the critical role of advanced technical training, the fellowship includes a dedicated robotic surgery curriculum. This aspect prepares fellows at varying skill levels with simulator training, hands-on experience, and advanced courses.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship allows for significant involvement in clinical research. Fellows engage in collaborative research activities and have access to resources that support various study designs from basic science to translational research. There is frequent participation in conferences at which fellows present their findings.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is considered competitive, being open to both US citizens and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Visa sponsorship is available, particularly for fellows with J-1 visas, thus allowing international candidates to apply. The program does not explicitly outline the maximum number of failed STEP exams; however, candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency through passages of standardized exams.

Application Requirements

Eligibility criteria for the fellowship mandates that applicants have completed an ACGME-approved general surgery residency. Evaluations are based on completed applications, including curriculum vitae, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Applicants should maintain an active interest in surgical oncology and demonstrate a commitment to the field.

Fellowship Benefits and Alumni Success

Fellows benefit from comprehensive support systems, competitive stipends, and opportunities for collaboration which foster career growth in surgical oncology. Approximately 70% of graduates pursue academic positions, highlighting the program's success in cultivating the next generation of leaders in surgical oncology.

As part of the continued advancement in the field, this fellowship prides itself on providing extensive support for the professional development of its fellows, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in their medical careers.