University of Michigan Program

The Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship at the University of Michigan Medical School is a distinguished program designed to equip fellows with the necessary skills and experience to become leaders in the field of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. The fellowship spans 36 months, comprising 12 months dedicated to research and 24 months focused on clinical training. This structure provides a comprehensive foundation in both the academic and practical aspects of urogynecology.

During the fellowship, trainees engage in high-complexity surgical techniques within a single, coordinated site that boasts robust surgical volume. Each fellow is responsible for managing 150 to 200 patients and performing numerous surgical procedures, with an emphasis on vaginal techniques, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic methods. A significant portion of the surgical cases—approximately 40%—concerns recurrent disease, allowing fellows to develop invaluable experience in complex surgical scenarios.

Core Program Components

The program emphasizes multifaceted training that integrates clinical and research dimensions, aiming to cultivate a well-rounded urogynecologist. Key components of the fellowship include:

• Clinical and Surgical Experience: Fellows receive training across various clinical settings that enhance their skills in managing diverse cases. The surgical training incorporates high-complexity cases, reinforcing the fellows' readiness for independent practice.
• Mentorship: The program fosters close mentorship with faculty members from both the Obstetrics/Gynecology (OBGYN) and Urology departments. This collaborative approach enriches the learning experience, with fellows receiving guidance from experienced mentors dedicated to teaching and research.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The fellowship is noted for its strong partnership between the Urology and OBGYN programs at Michigan Medicine, a model for interdisciplinary training that highlights shared learning experiences and patient management strategies.
• Research Opportunities: The University of Michigan provides fellows with extensive access to its research infrastructure, fostering an environment where fellows can participate in meaningful research, preparing them for scholarly contributions to the field.

Surgical Training and Simulation

Fellows have access to advanced simulation training facilities. This includes a simulation center focused on honing laparoscopic skills and opportunities to practice surgical techniques on dedicated mannequins before engaging in live surgeries, ensuring high competence before operating on actual patients.

Curriculum Structure and Learning Environment

Fellows follow a structured curriculum that progresses through core teaching conferences, didactics, and hands-on training sessions. The teaching sessions focus on various topics such as:

• Surgical planning and operative strategy through case review.
• Research protocol design and manuscript writing.
• Quality improvement discussions and journal clubs.

Fellows are expected to author multiple research papers during their training, with opportunities to publish first-authored papers in peer-reviewed journals.

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows in the program receive a competitive salary that aligns with that of a House Officer at a similar level of training. The program also offers generous benefits, including health coverage and opportunities for continued professional development.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The University of Michigan’s Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship is committed to inclusivity and offers visa sponsorship for qualified international graduates. The program accepts J-1 visas for international medical graduates, providing a pathway for contributions to the fellowship. Competitiveness is high, making the program selective in its application; specific criteria such as year of graduation and USMLE/COMLEX scores are required. Applicants must submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and work through the ERAS application process.

Living and Training in Ann Arbor

The fellowship is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, a vibrant community known for its cultural diversity, outdoor activities, and high-quality living standards. This environment enhances the educational experience, providing both a professional and personal foundation for fellows as they embark on their careers.