University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center Program

The Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics is a one-year, ACGME-approved program specifically designed for board-eligible or board-certified dermatologists. The fellowship emphasizes Mohs micrographically controlled excision and cutaneous surgery, providing comprehensive training in all aspects of cutaneous oncology management.

During the fellowship, participants are intricately involved in evaluating, performing surgeries, and overseeing the follow-up care of cutaneous oncology patients. This hands-on experience encompasses all facets of Mohs micrographic surgery, contributing to training that is both rigorous and wide-ranging.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is structured to provide extensive exposure to various surgical techniques and procedures, including but not limited to:

• Mohs micrographic surgery
• Excisional surgery for benign and malignant lesions
• Repair and reconstructive surgery with local flaps and staged reconstruction
• Skin grafts, nail surgery, scar revision, and dermabrasion
• Laser surgery, including CO2, non-ablative, ablative fractionated, pulsed dye, and NDYAG
• Filler injections and sclerotherapy
• Chemical peels and botulinum toxin injection techniques

Fellows can expect to perform around 1200 Mohs cases per year, with approximately 800 at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics and 400 at the Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center. This breadth of experience is enhanced by direct supervision from fellowship-trained surgical faculty, ensuring that fellows receive high-quality mentorship throughout their training

Collaborative Environment

The fellowship provides regular opportunities for collaboration with various specialties, enhancing the fellow's clinical experience. Daily surgical consultations are conducted with multiple departments such as:

• Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Orbital and Oculoplastic Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Urology
• OB-GYN

This interdisciplinary approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of complex cases that may benefit from a collaborative surgical perspective.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship. Fellows are expected to complete an in-depth research project by the conclusion of the program, culminating in a manuscript that is suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. This commitment to scholarly activity is supported throughout the fellowship, encouraging fellows to advance their understanding while contributing to the wider dermatology community.

Application Process

Applications for the fellowship will be accepted starting June 10, 2024, and the program participates in the SF Match. Interested candidates are required to meet the application deadline of August 1, 2024. Interviews are conducted in September and October, and they will take place via Zoom this year. It is important to note that interviews are by invitation only, and selected candidates will be notified via email to schedule an interview date.

Competitiveness and Eligibility

While the fellowship is competitive, it remains an attractive opportunity for a wide range of applicants, including both US and international medical graduates. The program is particularly supportive of applicants who meet the specific eligibility requirements, which typically include board eligibility or certification in dermatology. Specific details regarding eligibility and any application prerequisites, such as educational background or residency year of graduation, can be clarified during the application process.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support to international applicants. The types of visas sponsored typically include J-1 visas, which facilitate participation in graduate medical education programs in the United States. This allows for a diverse cohort of fellows, enriching the program through varied perspectives and experiences from the global medical community.