University of Mississippi Medical Center Program

The vascular surgery fellowship program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) is a prestigious two-year independent fellowship designed to provide comprehensive training in modern vascular surgery. This program is situated within a multi-institutional educational environment where fellows have opportunities for hands-on experience in various complex vascular conditions. The program is highly regarded due to its focus on a high-volume operative experience, addressing the diverse and complex vascular pathologies present in the Mississippi patient population.

The fellowship offers exposure to an extensive spectrum of clinical and academic components of vascular surgery, including high-volume open operative procedures, complicated aortic pathologies, and complex endovascular diagnostics. The fellows also benefit from the state-of-the-art non-invasive vascular laboratory that utilizes ultrasound-based therapeutics and engages in both clinical and basic science research activities, affording an enriched learning environment throughout their tenure in the program 1.

Program Curriculum and Rotations

The vascular surgery fellowship encompasses an in-depth curriculum comprised of two years of extensive vascular surgical training. During the first year, fellows focus on developing fundamental endovascular skills, culminating in the ability to perform more advanced aortic endovascular planning and interventions tailored for limb salvage. The program prioritizes exposure to non-invasive vascular imaging techniques necessary for achieving Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI) certification, integral for completion of the Vascular Surgery Certifying Examination 11.

The second year allows fellows to attain a higher level of independent surgical practice, providing opportunities to perform surgeries and manage complex cases autonomously. This progression supports skill refinement and the augmentation of competencies essential for independent practice in vascular surgery 12.

Training Sites

The program operates primarily at UMMC, the sole tertiary care center in Mississippi, and includes training at additional hospitals such as St. Dominic’s Hospital and the G.V. 'Sonny' Montgomery VA Hospital. This broad exposure ensures that fellows experience a diverse range of surgical cases, utilizing advanced technologies and techniques across various clinical settings. UMMC serves a high-volume surgical caseload, enriching fellows' experience with complex vascular interventions, including open aortic procedures and endovascular surgeries 10.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are expected to engage in ongoing research initiatives, including quality improvement and patient safety projects. This involvement not only enhances their academic development but also contributes to advancing the field of vascular surgery 9. The program supports fellows in pursuing their individual research interests through various channels, ensuring that academic achievement complements clinical training.

Unique Program Aspects

The diversity and complexity of the patient demographics in Mississippi significantly enrich the training environment for fellows. This allows for exposure to a unique array of vascular diseases that are not as commonly seen in other regions. The program prioritizes pedagogical strategies grounded in direct apprentice instruction complemented by small group discussions, fostering a collaborative learning environment among fellows and faculty 4.

Application Process and Requirements

To qualify for the vascular surgery fellowship, applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited general surgery residency. The program is a 5+2 structure, requiring five years of general surgery training before entering the two years dedicated to vascular surgery. Candidates will need to submit a completed ERAS application, including three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a recent photograph, and ABSITE scores as part of the evaluation process 2. The fellowship accepts one new resident annually, highlighting the competitive nature of the program. Additionally, the program facilitates visa sponsorship for applicants without U.S. citizenship, providing options for J-1 or permanent resident status 3.

Competitiveness

The vascular surgery fellowship at UMMC is recognized as a highly competitive program, appealing not only to U.S. medical graduates but also to international medical graduates (IMGs) and DO graduates. This inclusivity in recruitment reflects the program’s commitment to attracting diverse and talented individuals keen on advancing their careers in vascular surgery 7.

Living in Jackson, Mississippi

The program offers resources for fellows and their families to acclimate comfortably to life in Jackson, Mississippi. As the state capital, Jackson provides a blend of urban and southern charm, including diverse cultural activities, parks, and community events. The local environment enhances the overall experience of the fellowship, allowing for leisure and leisure exploration during the fellows' rigorous training journey 5.

Fellowship Outcomes

The program boasts a commendable track record of successful graduates who have gone on to excel in academic, private practice, and leadership roles within the field of vascular surgery. This speaks to the program's effectiveness in preparing fellows for their professional futures 6.