University of Louisville School of Medicine Program

The University of Louisville School of Medicine General Surgery Residency Program, directed by Dr. Matthew Benns, is housed within the Department of Surgery which has a rich history of over 100 years in training residents. Supported by a team of associate program directors, the program is structured around intensive patient care, decision-making, early operative exposure, and the development of surgical science. This five-year ACGME-accredited program aims to produce confident and knowledgeable general surgeons ready for clinical practice or further sub-specialty training.

Residents in this program enjoy a graded responsibility system that promotes growth from early operative experiences in their training, leading to significant autonomy by their chief year. They manage patients in surgical intensive care units (SICU) from the beginning of their residency, ensuring broad critical care exposure. The training environment is patient-based, emphasizing hands-on experiences across a wide range of surgical techniques.

The operative experience is substantial, with residents anticipated to perform around 1,200 cases, involving complex procedures across multiple surgical disciplines. This extensive practical exposure is facilitated by rotations through five major hospitals, ensuring a diverse experience across various patient populations. Rural rotations further enrich the training with a broader spectrum of patient care experiences.

The program is holistic, emphasizing not just the development of technical skills but also fostering a strong foundation in surgical judgment, professionalism, and interpersonal communication. Residents are expected to engage in research, with opportunities available for projects in basic, clinical, or surgical science research. They are supported to produce publications and contribute to the field's academic base.

The residency experience is enhanced by a structured curriculum that includes mandatory conferences, journal clubs, and quality improvement projects. This ensures residents are well-versed in contemporary surgical practices and grounded in the ethos of continuous learning and improvement.

Prospective applicants must complete an ERAS application, which includes USMLE scores, recommendation letters, and transcripts. The program selects candidates based on applications and conducts interviews on set dates.

With its tradition of excellence, commitment to a comprehensive educational experience, and structured approach to developing the next generation of surgeons, the University of Louisville General Surgery Residency Program stands out as a notable option for medical graduates aiming to excel in the field of surgery.