University of Kansas School of Medicine Program

The University of Kansas School of Medicine offers a three-year independent fellowship program in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. This program is designed to train the next generation of cardiothoracic surgeons while advancing the understanding and treatment of complex medical conditions. With a commitment to education and world-class patient care, the program maintains a high-volume and progressive training curriculum that provides fellows with a comprehensive exposure to various surgical procedures.

Program Features

The Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery fellowship program accepts one fellow per year, allowing for focused training and mentorship opportunities. The fellowship is ACGME-accredited and leads to board eligibility upon completion. The applied skills in cardiothoracic surgery include, but are not limited to: robotic mitral valve repair, heart failure treatment using ECMO, catheter-based interventions like TEVAR, and minimally invasive surgical techniques such as VATS and robotic lobectomies. This curriculum is structured to fulfill both the clinical needs of patients and the educational needs of the fellows, ensuring a balanced training environment 1.

Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows will complete their rotations at the University of Kansas Health System and Children's Mercy Hospital. The varied clinical settings provide exposure to a broad spectrum of cardiac and thoracic procedures. Additionally, the fellows are expected to participate in weekly and monthly conferences to further enhance their learning experience 3.

Research Opportunities

The program recognizes the significance of research in advancing cardiothoracic surgical practices. Fellows are encouraged to engage in ongoing clinical research projects. Notable studies currently include trials on transcatheter mitral valve replacements and other innovative procedures aimed at improving patient outcomes 5. The research environment at the University of Kansas Hospital has been recognized for its contributions to the specialty, helping it rank amongst the top 50 cardiothoracic surgery programs in the nation 2.

Application Requirements

Prospective applicants must fulfill several criteria to apply for the fellowship, including submitting an ERAS application, providing three letters of recommendation (with one from the program director), and submitting USMLE scores alongside personal statements. Additionally, in-training exam scores in general surgery are required. Attention is also given to applicant performance on previous step examinations, with a limit set on failed attempts 4.

Visa Support

The University of Kansas School of Medicine provides visa support for international medical graduates looking to pursue their fellowship in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. The program typically sponsors H-1B visas for qualified candidates, allowing them to live and work in the United States for the duration of the fellowship 1.

Competitiveness of the Program

Being a top-ranked program in the Kansas City metro region enhances its competitiveness. The fellowship is designed to attract a diverse range of applicants, including both U.S. and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program welcomes applications from DO graduates as well, making it a friendly choice for a wide spectrum of prospective fellows 2.

Living in Kansas City

Kansas City is known for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse culinary options, and Midwestern charm. It offers an ideal environment for both living and working, balancing the benefits of a metropolitan area with the charm of a Midwest city. The program fosters a supportive community for its fellows, integrating social and cultural activities within the environment 3.