University of Rochester Medical Center Program

The University of Rochester Hand and Upper Extremity Fellowship is a one-year ACGME-accredited program specifically designed for residents who have completed training in orthopaedics or plastic surgery. Established in 1974, the program is renowned for providing comprehensive exposure to the treatment of upper extremity conditions, with a particular focus on hand and microsurgery techniques.

Program Overview

The fellowship involves substantial clinical training through a structured curriculum, featuring rotations with multiple faculty members. The fellow will engage in a combination of clinical and operative experiences with flexibility to tailor rotations according to personal interests and career goals. The program emphasizes hands-on learning in various settings including outpatient clinics and surgical theaters across different affiliated sites, providing access to a wide variety of cases and surgeries throughout the year.

Curriculum

The curriculum is divided into rotations, each lasting between three to four months, allowing for focused learning from experts in the field. Fellows will spend one to two days per week in clinic and three to four days in the operating room, participating actively in patient care and surgical procedures. The didactic component includes weekly conferences and monthly journal clubs, ensuring the fellow is up-to-date with current research and practices in hand surgery, as outlined by national guidelines from the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) 1.

Clinical Rotations

The fellow will obtain diverse experiences through exposure to various conditions such as hand and upper extremity trauma, reconstructive surgery, and nerve injuries. The trauma rotation includes managing fractures, dislocations, tendon injuries, and emergencies related to microvascular surgery, as the program serves as a regional referral center 1. In addition, fellows will have opportunities to engage in teaching residents, thereby enhancing their educational experience and leadership skills.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship faculty comprises eight specialists who provide guidance and mentorship throughout the training. Fellows spend significant time with each faculty member, reinforcing their surgical and clinical knowledge while fostering professional relationships 1. This is further enhanced by interactions within clinical, biomechanical, and basic science research opportunities available in the Center for Musculoskeletal Research.

Research Opportunities

Research is a significant aspect of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to engage in meaningful projects that contribute to the field of hand surgery. Whether it is through basic scientific or clinical research, fellows gain the skills necessary to critically evaluate literature and contribute to ongoing discussions within the academic community 1.

Application Process

Application to the fellowship requires submission through the ASSH website, including three letters of recommendation and a current CV. Competitive applicants typically have completed residency training in either orthopaedics or plastic surgery 1. The program also participates in the NRMP matching process, which helps streamline the selection of candidates in alignment with their training needs.

Visa Support

The University of Rochester offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, specifically for J-1 and H-1B visa types, providing necessary support throughout the application process. This ensures that applicants from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to contribute to the exceptional training provided by the fellowship program 1.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The fellowship is recognized for being competitive, often favoring candidates with backgrounds in orthopaedic or plastic surgery, although those with general surgery training with specialization in hand surgery are also considered. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong clinical acumen and a keen interest in advancing their surgical skills. Year of graduation and history of failed exams may also be evaluated during the selection process 1.

Salary and Benefits

The stipend for the fellow is competitive, with benefits that align with those provided to resident physicians, ensuring sufficient support during the fellowship year 2.

Living in Rochester

Rochester, NY, provides a vibrant living environment conducive to both personal and professional growth. The city, known for its affordability, cultural richness, and proximity to the stunning Finger Lakes region, offers numerous activities and amenities for fellows and their families. The University of Rochester enhances this experience with its initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities and promoting inclusivity within medical training 1.