University of Colorado Program

Overview of the Thoracic Surgery Fellowship Program

The Thoracic Surgery Fellowship Program at the University of Colorado is a comprehensive three-year fellowship designed to equip fellows with a well-rounded thoracic surgical education. Established in 1977, the program aims to prepare graduates to effectively navigate the challenges of the profession, irrespective of their ultimate career goals. Over the course of the program, fellows engage in rotations at various esteemed sites, including the University of Colorado Hospital, Children's Hospital Colorado, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Denver, gaining exposure to all facets of thoracic surgery, including adult and congenital heart disease.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to provide in-depth experiences in different subspecialty areas within the first two years, aligning fellows towards American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) examination eligibility. The third year allows fellows to specialize in areas that correspond to their career ambitions, such as general thoracic surgery or congenital heart surgery. The program is designed to foster independence, with fellows given graduated responsibilities both in and out of the operating room.

Year 1

The first year focuses on a comprehensive understanding of both adult cardiac and general thoracic surgery. During this time, fellows participate actively in surgical procedures while also managing preoperative and postoperative care, including ICU management.

Year 2

In the second year, the fellows continue developing their skills within adult cardiac surgery and gain exposure to pediatric cardiac procedures. By this stage, fellows are expected to ascend to an increased level of responsibility and perform a broader array of surgical procedures, along with improving their understanding of complex medical management.

Year 3

The final year is tailored to allow fellows to focus on their chosen specialty, whether in adult cardiac or general thoracic surgery. This is a critical period where fellows are expected to transition to primary surgeon roles on complex cases such as transplants.

Educational Activities and Research Opportunities

The fellowship offers a wide variety of educational activities, including surgical grand rounds, morbidity and mortality conferences, and journal clubs. These activities are essential for developing the analytical skills necessary for a successful career in thoracic surgery. Furthermore, the program provides ample research opportunities, facilitating fellows’ participation in national meetings where they can present their findings.

Application Process and Requirements

Applications are submitted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited General Surgery Residency and are required to provide three letters of recommendation. Notably, there is no minimum score requirement for the USMLE Step I exam; however, scores above 220 are seen favorably.

Additionally, applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to be eligible for training at this program. Interviews generally take place from February through March, with notifications sent via email regarding application statuses.

Visa Support

The program is committed to supporting fellowship candidates requiring visa sponsorship. Accepted visa types include the J-1 and H-1B visas, which are typically sponsored for international medical graduates who meet the eligibility requirements.

Competitiveness and Acceptance of Diverse Backgrounds

The fellowship program is recognized for being competitive yet inclusive. It actively considers applications from diverse backgrounds, including those with DO degrees and international medical graduates (IMGs). This inclusivity is part of the program's commitment to fostering a varied educational environment that benefits from a multitude of perspectives.

Special Application Requirements

While there is no minimum score for the USMLE Step I, candidates are strongly advised to maintain an exemplary academic record to enhance their chances of selection. Additionally, the program typically allows no more than four letters of recommendation, ensuring that applicant evaluations are thorough yet concise.

Career Outlook for Graduates

Graduates from the Thoracic Surgery Fellowship Program have established successful careers across the United States, taking on roles both in academia and private practice. Feedback from alumni consistently reflects preparedness for independent practice upon completion of the fellowship, highlighting the program's success in developing skilled thoracic surgeons who are ready to make meaningful contributions within the field.