University of Chicago (Endeavor Health – NorthShore Hospitals) Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program at the University of Chicago (NorthShore) aims to provide comprehensive training in the diagnosis, care, and catheter-based treatment of patients with coronary and structural heart disease. The program is designed to prepare fellows for leadership roles in the field of interventional cardiology, ensuring they acquire the necessary procedural and cognitive skills to excel in their future medical careers.

This one-year fellowship focuses on mastering techniques essential for interventions including coronary and structural valve procedures, allowing trainees to develop a comprehensive understanding of procedural risks and patient care considerations. The training aligns with the American College of Cardiology (ACC) COCATS guidelines and adheres fully to the American Heart Association's (AHA) standards on clinical competency in interventional cardiology.

Curriculum

The curriculum entails a series of lectures and hands-on experiences that cover the fundamental aspects of adult invasive diagnostic and therapeutic cardiovascular procedures. By the end of the fellowship, fellows will possess the technical skills needed to operate independently in interventional cardiology. Key competencies include:

• Advanced trans-femoral and trans-radial arterial access
• Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty
• Coronary stent implantation
• Coronary atherectomy (including rotational, orbital, and laser techniques)
• Mechanical thrombectomy
• Intracoronary imaging (using ultrasound and optical coherence tomography)
• Intracoronary physiologic testing (including fractional flow reserve)
• Complicated high-risk coronary interventions
• Chronic total occlusion (CTO) intervention
• Percutaneous ventricular support device management (such as intra-aortic balloon pumps and Impella)
• Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty
• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
• Transcatheter mitral valve repair (MitraClip)
• Closure of intracardiac communications (ASD and PFO)
• Alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
• Management of large bore arterial and venous sheaths

Research Opportunities

The fellowship also integrates extensive research opportunities through the NorthShore CVI Research Unit, which fosters academic inquiry into coronary and structural therapies. The program is characterized by a commitment to innovation and early adoption of advanced techniques and devices in cardiology practice. The faculty are deeply involved in both clinical and investigative activities, ensuring that fellows are well-acquainted with cutting-edge practices in cardiology.

Application Process

To apply for the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship, applicants must submit their applications through ERAS in early December, with all materials being due by December 31st. The necessary application components include:

• ERAS application
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• Completion and passing of all three USMLE step examinations
• USMLE transcripts
• ABIM board certification or eligibility

Accepted applicants must also secure a permanent Illinois medical license. Interviews for prospective fellows are conducted in January and February following the application deadline.

Competitiveness & Visa Support

The program is noted for being highly competitive; however, it is also welcoming to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those who are DOs or international medical graduates (IMGs). Visa sponsorship is available for qualified international applicants, encompassing J-1 and H-1B visa categories, providing essential support for prospective fellows to pursue their training in the United States.

Current Fellows & Faculty

The program features a robust structure of mentorship provided by faculty who are distinguished experts in the field, ensuring the highest quality of training. Current fellows participate actively in both clinical activities and educational sessions, designed to enhance their understanding and skills in interventional cardiology. The faculty's extensive experience and ongoing commitment to education foster an environment conducive to fellows' professional growth.