TriHealth Program

TriHealth's Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship is a comprehensive program located in Cincinnati, Ohio. This ACGME-accredited fellowship provides a robust training environment for fellows interested in urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery. The curriculum is designed to cultivate proficiency in the assessment and management of various pelvic floor disorders, including lower urinary tract dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, defecatory dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain, and benign surgical conditions.

The program emphasizes both medical and surgical management. Medical treatments may include biofeedback, physical therapy, pharmacologic therapies, and pessaries, while surgical options cover a wide spectrum of approaches, including abdominal, vaginal, and laparoscopic techniques. Fellows have access to a comprehensive array of diagnostic tools, such as multichannel urodynamics, cystoscopy, endoanal ultrasound, and neurophysiologic testing, allowing for an integrated approach to patient management 1.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship is structured to balance clinical care, surgical experience, and research opportunities. Program components include:

Clinical/Office Rotation

This initial rotation introduces fellows to the subspecialty practice of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS), focusing on diagnostic testing, imaging, and clinical management of pelvic floor conditions. Fellows develop competencies in performing various procedures under supervision.

Surgery Service Rotation

The surgery rotation enables fellows to acquire advanced surgical skills for managing pelvic floor disorders. Over the year, fellows transition from assisting in surgical procedures to taking on leadership roles in patient management, ensuring safety and patient advocacy.

Research Rotation

Fellows are required to complete Human Subjects Research training before beginning their fellowship. Initial research rotations facilitate vital training in research design, grant writing, and methodology. Subsequent rotations focus on thesis completion, allowing fellows to develop independent research skills and engage in meaningful scholarly projects 2.

Research Focus

The fellowship includes a strong research component with dedicated resources, including a full-time research nurse and support from the Hatton Institute for Research and Education. This focus encourages fellows to engage in clinical research and scholarly activities, enhancing their training and contributing to advancements in the field. Past projects have been presented at national conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals 3.

Competitive Selection Process

The program accepts one fellow annually through the National Ranking Matching Program (NRMP). Applicants must submit a complete ERAS application, which includes a personal statement, curriculum vitae, USMLE/COMLEX transcripts, letters of recommendation, and CREOG scores. Completing this selection process can be highly competitive, necessitating a robust application and demonstrated commitment to the field 4.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship opportunities for international medical graduates. Specifically, it can sponsor J-1 visas for eligible candidates wishing to participate in the fellowship 1.

Unique Aspects

TriHealth fosters a diverse and inclusive training environment, integrating simulation training in both surgical and communication skills. The curriculum also includes rotations in affiliated specialized fields, such as Urology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Pediatric Colorectal Surgery at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, providing fellows with a well-rounded educational experience 5.

Lifestyle in Cincinnati

Cincinnati offers a vibrant culture with numerous opportunities for community engagement and recreational activities, making it an appealing location for fellows. The city encourages a balanced lifestyle that complements the rigorous demands of the fellowship 6.

Current Fellows

Details about the current fellows enhance the understanding of the fellowship environment and provide prospective candidates with insights into the program's community and support structure 7.