University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine Program

The Neurocritical Care Program at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine is dedicated to enhancing patient care, advancing research, and providing robust training for medical students, residents, and fellows interested in the field of neurocritical care. This multidisciplinary program focuses on managing a wide spectrum of acutely ill neurological patients.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Neurocritical Care fellowship spans over two years, designed to equip fellows with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide acute care for critically ill patients experiencing neurological crises. Trainees encounter a variety of medical conditions including cerebrovascular disorders, neurotrauma, neuro-oncology, refractory seizures, and perioperative management for neurosurgical patients. Experience is gained through direct patient care in the Neuroscience ICU, where fellows engage in multimodality intracranial neuromonitoring and other advanced techniques.1

Rotations and Clinical Exposure

Fellows rotate through various service lines, allowing for comprehensive exposure to different specialties within neurocritical care. They are involved in the care of patients with diverse neurological diagnoses, experiencing hands-on support for both surgical and non-surgical interventions. The program emphasizes bedside data integration, utilizing systems such as the Moberg Component Neuromonitoring System, including advanced full-band EEG capabilities for real-time monitoring and immediate analysis.1

Research Opportunities

The University of Cincinnati's Neurocritical Care Program is heavily invested in research focusing on brain injuries and advancements in treatment protocols for severe neurological conditions. With initiatives like the Collaborative for Research on Acute Neurological Injuries (CRANI), the program supports clinical trials funded by the NIH and DOD, involving studies such as TRACK-TBI, which examines multiple facets of traumatic brain injury.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

This program incorporates a unique blend of clinical training and cutting-edge research. The Neuroscience ICU is equipped with various advanced monitoring technologies, ranging from non-invasive cardiac output monitoring to continuous non-invasive video/EEG systems, ensuring fellows are well-equipped to manage complex cases.1

Training Sites

The primary clinical training occurs within the UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute and affiliated hospitals, ensuring fellows have access to comprehensive patient populations and diverse clinical scenarios. The multispecialty nature of the program means fellows will work alongside various specialists, enhancing collaborative skills essential in the realm of critical care medicine.1

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The Neurocritical Care Program is supportive of international applicants, offering visa sponsorships which typically include J-1 and H-1B visas. This support is critical for foreign medical graduates aiming to complete their neurocritical care training in a rigorous and supportive environment.1

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship program is known to be highly competitive, favoring candidates who have completed residency training in Neurology, Anesthesiology, or Emergency Medicine. Specific details regarding maximum failed STEP exams and year of graduation may be strict; however, individuals are strongly encouraged to present comprehensive applications demonstrating clinical proficiency and a commitment to neurocritical care.1

Conclusion

The Neurocritical Care Program at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center offers a rich training environment blending diverse clinical experiences with research opportunities that foster professional growth and development in an essential area of medicine. The combination of advanced clinical training and pioneering research sets this program apart, making it a leading choice for those pursuing careers in neurocritical care.