University of Chicago Program

The Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery within the Department of Surgery at the University of Chicago Medicine specializes in a comprehensive range of diseases and disorders related to the colon, rectum, and anus. This includes inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease), colon and rectal cancer, diverticulitis, pelvic floor disorders, and anorectal disorders. The program is nationally recognized for its expertise in managing both complicated benign and malignant disorders through a combination of minimally invasive surgical techniques such as advanced laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery, and endoscopic procedures.

In collaboration with other specialty centers at the University of Chicago Medicine, the Colon and Rectal Surgery section provides multidisciplinary care and facilitates timely access to consultations, promising that new cancer patients receive an appointment within one week of diagnosis. These partnerships include the Digestive Diseases Center, which focuses on research and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, the Comprehensive Cancer Center for coordinated cancer care, and the Center for Pelvic Health.

The program ensures a seamless pre-, peri-, and post-operative experience for every patient through a dedicated group of support staff, including physician assistants and highly experienced enterostomal and wound care nurses. The program aims to maintain confidentiality and discretion for patients dealing with sensitive issues and offers second opinion services for complex cases.

Program Overview

The Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at the University of Chicago is a 12-month program accredited by the ACGME. It is structured to provide thorough training experiences and includes partnerships with the NorthShore University HealthSystem, creating a robust educational environment. Fellows will gain the skills required for both clinical excellence and academic scholarship, catering to their career aspirations in either academic or private practice settings.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is a cornerstone of the fellowship, focusing on developing surgical skills, clinical judgment, and comprehensive patient management abilities. The program features a robust operative schedule, with fellows engaged in approximately 3.5-4 operative days and 1-1.5 clinic days each week. Rotations last from one to three months, covering several aspects of colorectal surgery across both the University of Chicago and NorthShore University HealthSystem facilities.

Didactic Curriculum

The educational structure includes weekly lectures, conferences, and discussions aimed at reinforcing the fellows' knowledge base and clinical reasoning skills. Opportunities for presenting research findings are encouraged through participation in case conferences and the annual research competition organized by the Chicago Society for Colon & Rectal Surgeons.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component, with fellows required to complete a clinical or basic science research project during their training. The fellows are expected to submit their findings to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons annual meeting and pursue publication in peer-reviewed journals. The program fosters an academic environment that supports innovative research and collaboration.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must be board certified or eligible in general surgery. The program is highly competitive, typically interviewing 15-20 candidates for one fellowship position, thus attracting well-trained individuals eager to engage in robust clinical and academic training. As part of the application process, candidates are encouraged to submit applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).

Visa Support

The program offers visa support and is capable of sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible international medical graduates. This ensures that qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds can apply regardless of their visa status, thus fostering a broader range of experiences within the fellowship cohort.

Living in Chicago

Chicago is renowned for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and culinary excellence. Previous fellows have lived in various areas including the South Loop, West Loop, and Lincoln Park, with convenient access to the University of Chicago campus and NorthShore facilities. Medical fellows can enjoy the city's unique architecture and explore numerous sports and cultural events.

Call Responsibilities

The call schedule is designed to be flexible, with fellows required to cover weekend rounding in collaboration with administrative chiefs. Unlike typical surgical call obligations, overnight duties and outpatient calls are not common. This structure allows fellows to engage with complex patients without the burden of excessive call demands.