University of Tennessee College of Medicine Program

The University of Tennessee-Campbell Clinic offers an accredited 12-month Hand Surgery Fellowship in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, designed for orthopedic surgeons looking to advance their expertise in hand surgery. This program is known for offering comprehensive training specifically focused on the adult hand, with an estimated 90% to 95% of clinical exposure dedicated to hand surgery cases.

Fellows participate in a robust clinical experience that includes exposure to both acute and reconstructive surgery, as well as clinical nonsurgical problems concerning hand health. In addition to clinical practice, the fellowship emphasizes research, providing time and facilities for fellows to engage in clinical and basic science research projects, supported by the Campbell Foundation's staff. Fellows are required to complete at least one research project during the fellowship year, which is expected to culminate in either a publication or a presentation.

Clinical Responsibilities

Fellows in the program are tasked with a variety of clinical responsibilities, including:

• Conducting thorough clinical work-ups for new patients, which involves obtaining medical histories, performing physical examinations, and ordering necessary imaging.
• Performing relevant procedural tasks under supervision, including removal of pins, administration of injections, and wound care management.
• Assisting in primary surgical tasks, including serving as the first assistant during surgeries and writing postoperative orders.

Fellows also participate in a structured teaching program that includes mandatory conference attendance every Monday and Thursday, as well as a monthly journal club focused on hand and microsurgery topics.

Application Process and Eligibility

Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program in orthopaedic surgery and must also qualify for medical licensure and DEA certification in both Tennessee and Mississippi. Furthermore, the selected fellow must obtain hospital privileges at affiliated institutions such as Baptist Memorial Hospitals, Methodist Hospitals, and Campbell Clinic Surgery Centers. The fellowship position is highly competitive, with only one fellow chosen per specialty each year. The fellowship will be filled through the National Resident Matching Program, and applications can be submitted via the American Society of Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) website.

Benefits and Compensation

Fellows receive a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• An annual salary at the PGY6 level.
• Disability and life insurance.
• Health and optional dental insurance.
• Paid time off, including 12 vacation days and 5 sick days, alongside 6 days allocated specifically for meetings.
• A stipend of $1500 for meeting-related travel and related expenses.

It is critical for prospective fellows to be aware of the program's requirements and offerings, particularly as it is designed to ensure a robust educational experience while also allowing opportunities for clinical application and research.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at the University of Tennessee is known for its competitive nature, with 15 to 50 applications received annually for the single fellowship position. Additionally, the program is generally friendly to applications from both DO graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), provided that these candidates fulfill the required conditions of having completed a relevant residency in the United States.

The fellowship also offers visa support and can sponsor various types of visas, ensuring that international candidates who meet the necessary qualifications can apply to this prestigious training opportunity.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This fellowship distinguishes itself from others by providing a focused and intensive hand surgery training experience, allowing for maximum exposure to surgical cases and one-on-one interaction with leading staff members. This model enhances the educational experience and prepares fellows to excel in their future surgical practices.

As part of its mission to maintain a balance between clinical excellence and education, the University of Tennessee-Campbell Clinic continues to invest in the development of its fellows through mentorship and direct patient care interactions. This combination of research focus and comprehensive clinical education offers fellows a strong foundation for their future careers in orthopaedic surgery.