University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine Program

The Vascular Surgery Program at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center offers a comprehensive and rigorous training experience aimed at developing highly skilled vascular surgeons. It includes both an integrated residency program and a clinical fellowship, allowing for diverse training environments and a wealth of clinical exposure.

About the Program

The vascular surgery fellowship program is a two-year clinical fellowship fully accredited by ACGME. It prepares fellows to perform standard, complex open, endovascular, and hybrid procedures, exceeding ACGME's graduating standards for operative case numbers. This unique program combines experiences from an academic university hospital, a VA medical center, and a community hospital, ensuring fellows are well-prepared for both academic and private practice roles. Fellows engage in hands-on simulation sessions throughout the academic year and are required to complete a quality improvement project as part of their training. This project not only enhances their clinical research experience but is also aimed at publication in recognized journals.

Curriculum

The integrated vascular surgery residency program spans five years, including 18-24 months of core surgical training and 36-42 months focused specifically on vascular training. Residents rotate through essential surgical specialties and engage in clinical rotations at various hospitals, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, UC Health's West Chester Hospital, the Cincinnati VA Medical Center, and The Christ Hospital. They acquire competencies in managing surgical patients with complex illnesses, honing essential surgical skills applicable to cardiovascular, thoracic, abdominal, and soft tissue diseases.3 The clinical rotations for residents include a comprehensive mix of vascular surgery experiences tailored to ensure proficiency in both open and endovascular techniques.

Training Sites

The primary training site for the vascular surgery experience is the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, identified as a tertiary referral center. This facility provides exposure to a diverse array of complex cases, enriching trainee experiences with significant operative opportunities. The inclusion of the VA Medical Center and Christ Hospital as training sites further enhances the learning environment, allowing residents to practice and refine their skills in varied clinical settings.2

Research Opportunities

Active participation in research is required of all trainees in the program. Each resident collaborates with a partner on a quality improvement project, contributing to the larger body of knowledge in vascular surgery. The research covers areas like vascular trauma, hemorrhage during thrombolysis, and duplex-scan findings, among others. Residents are also encouraged to attend national and regional meetings to present their findings, further supporting their academic and professional development.9

Diversity and Inclusion

The program is firmly committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive training atmosphere. This focus includes a wide-ranging approach to diversity encompassing ethnicity, gender identity, socioeconomic status, and educational background. The program actively encourages applications from individuals from historically underrepresented groups, aiming to cultivate a holistic educational environment.4

Application Process

The program offers one categorical position each academic year, participating in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The application process requires submissions through ERAS, including a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, a dean's letter, and USMLE Step I and II scores. Candidates must meet credentialing requirements to ensure a smooth transition into residency training.8

Visa Support

Regarding visa support, the program is committed to assisting international medical graduates in obtaining necessary visa sponsorship. The types of visas that may be supported include J-1 and H-1B visas, which are often needed for foreign medical graduates pursuing residency or fellowship opportunities in the U.S.

Resident Wellness

The program recognizes the importance of resident wellness and implements initiatives that promote personal well-being and resiliency among trainees. This includes regular assessments of wellness through surveys and creating support networks aimed at optimizing residents' overall health and career satisfaction.6

Living in Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati Medical Center is located in a vibrant and culturally rich city, offering a wide variety of recreational activities, dining options, and entertainment. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to outdoor activities, music, art, and sports, contributing to their overall well-being during residency training.7

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is highly competitive, and while it aims to select the best candidates, it also maintains an inclusive approach for DO and IMG applicants. Important application considerations include the timeliness of the USMLE examinations and the academic record, with special attention given to the candidate's readiness for rigorous surgical training. Previous residents have successfully transitioned into a variety of academic and clinical positions in vascular surgery across the country.5