University of Colorado School of Medicine Program

The Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at the University of Colorado School of Medicine aims to provide a comprehensive training program that offers advanced clinical and surgical expertise in colon and rectal surgery. This one-year fellowship program will begin accepting its first fellow in 2025 following ACGME accreditation in 2024. The overarching mission is to deliver a well-rounded education that prepares graduates for diverse roles within the field of colorectal surgery.

During the fellowship, participants will gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in diagnosing and managing patients with conditions related to the colon, rectum, and anus. Clinical rotations are scheduled at two main sites: the University of Colorado Hospital at the Anschutz Medical Campus and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. At the VA Medical Center, the fellow will focus solely on endoscopy procedures. The proximity of the training sites, all situated within a 25-mile radius of the Anschutz Medical Campus, ensures an efficient and cohesive learning environment.

Fellows are involved in a broad spectrum of surgical procedures, including open, laparoscopic, robotic, and trans-anal operations. The program prides itself on a high surgical volume in common and complex procedures, such as those related to cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, pelvic floor disease, reoperative colorectal surgery, and various anorectal pathologies. For example, in the 2023-24 academic year, the program reported performing 640 major abdominal surgical cases, reflecting a rich operative experience for the fellows.

Clinical Experience and Research Opportunities

The educational experience is well-rounded, incorporating participation in case conferences, didactic lectures, and various academic activities including mortality and morbidity (M&M) conferences, journal clubs, and multidisciplinary conferences focusing on colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and pelvic-floor diseases. This structure bolsters the learning environment, allowing fellows to develop critical thinking and collaborative skills essential to their careers.

Research plays a significant role in the fellowship. Fellows have the option to lead or participate in ongoing clinical research projects, benefitting from a robust surgical database and various faculty-led projects within the department. This aspect aids in fostering an academic mindset, enabling fellows to contribute meaningfully to the field.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible for this fellowship, candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in general surgery and possess eligibility for licensing in Colorado. For the academic year commencing in summer 2025, applications can be submitted through ERAS. Special application requirements include a current CV, a personal statement detailing qualifications and motivations, a copy of the medical diploma, and two letters of recommendation.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program offers visa sponsorship primarily for J-1 visas for international medical graduates, helping facilitate their training in the United States. As part of a competitive selection process, the program evaluates candidates based on their credentials, clinical experience, and fit within the fellowship environment.

Living and Training in Colorado

Beyond the educational opportunities, the fellowship offers a unique living experience in Colorado. With a generally favorable climate filled with sunshine and moderate temperatures, fellows will enjoy a lifestyle enriched with access to numerous recreational activities in the nearby mountains, as well as cultural events in the Denver metropolitan area. The convenience of the Denver International Airport, located about 15 miles from Anschutz Medical Campus, adds an additional benefit for traveling to conferences and visiting family.