University of Pennsylvania Health System Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is an ACGME-accredited program, accepting two fellows per academic year from August 1st to July 31st. This fellowship offers significant clinical responsibilities, with fellows rotating alongside attending surgeons on the Hand Surgery Service and the option to work with faculty in the shoulder and elbow service, if desired. The program is enriched by Penn Orthopaedics' substantial surgical volume, which includes approximately 1,400 cases annually and around 15,000 outpatient visits. A structured didactic lecture and case conference schedule further enhances the educational experience, inviting fellows to actively participate in teaching conferences and discussions 1.

Research opportunities are an integral part of the fellowship, allowing fellows to engage in both ongoing clinical and basic science research projects. Active basic science research involves significant areas such as tendon healing, biomechanics of surgical implants, and tissue engineering. The basic science efforts are collaboratively conducted in conjunction with the clinicians at the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, directed by esteemed faculty 1. Additionally, clinical research projects include investigations into the management and outcomes related to distal radius fractures, applications of arthroscopy in upper extremity disorders, and innovative uses of computer technology in patient care 1.

Program Leadership and Faculty

The program leadership includes the Program Director and Associate Program Director, along with renowned faculty members, who provide both guidance and expertise throughout the fellowship. This collaborative learning environment fosters both academic growth and clinical skills development 1.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for the Hand Surgery Fellowship, applicants must have completed a residency in Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery, or General Surgery accredited by the ACGME, RCPSC, or CFPC. Additionally, qualifications depend on the successful completion of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, as well as the ability to obtain a medical license in Pennsylvania. For international medical graduates (IMGs), the program requires ECFMG certification and completion of USMLE Step 3 to have a complete application for review 1.

Visa Support

The program provides visa support for qualified applicants. The types of visas that the program may sponsor include J-1 and H-1B visas, suitable for international medical graduates who meet the educational and application requirements 1.

Competitiveness

The fellowship program at the University of Pennsylvania is quite competitive, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds, including U.S. graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). While traditional pathways are followed, the program is known for its flexibility and adaptability to include well-rounded candidates from various educational experiences 1.

How to Apply

Applicants must apply through the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) Portal. The application deadline is November 15th of each year. It is important to note that the hand fellowship match is managed by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), requiring candidates to separately register for the match and create a distinct match list 1.