University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program
Location:
Dallas, TXSpecialty:
Craniofacial surgeryACGME Code:
3614836011The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center offers a 12-month Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Fellowship Programme within its Department of Plastic Surgery. This ACGME-accredited fellowship is designed for individuals who have completed an accredited plastic surgery residency and seek advanced training in pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery. The program aims to cultivate leaders in clinical, academic, and research domains within the field of pediatric craniofacial surgery.
Goals and Objectives
The primary goal of the fellowship is to ensure that upon completion, the fellows possess comprehensive clinical expertise in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of craniofacial surgical cases involving infants, children, and young adults. This specialized training addresses the complexities often not covered in adult plastic surgery training programs, thus emphasizing the depth of focus in pediatric care.
Areas of Clinical Training
The fellowship encompasses a multitude of core competencies, including:
- In-depth evaluation and management of pediatric craniofacial disorders, including congenital and acquired defects.
- Surgical procedures including treatment for cleft lip and palate, orthognathic surgery, and trauma surgery.
- Exposure to interdisciplinary teams in craniofacial care, enhancing teamwork and leadership skills.
- Training in advanced imaging and surgical planning techniques using tools such as three-dimensional CT scans.
- Active participation in clinical research and educational activities, fostering a commitment to continual learning.
During the fellowship, participants are expected to manage outpatient clinics and engage significantly in surgical procedures, performing complex reconstructions and managing postoperative care under the mentorship of experienced faculty members.
Program Curriculum and Clinical Duties
The fellows will assume progressive responsibilities, developing competencies aligned with their experience and abilities. The fellowship integrates educational lectures and interactive clinical exposure, focusing on the participants' active involvement in all facets of pediatric craniofacial surgery.
Fellows are required to initiate and complete substantial research projects, which are guided by the faculty. Their research contributions are vital in the advancement of evidence-based practices in pediatric surgery.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants must have successfully completed a minimum of three years in general surgery and a plastic surgery residency. The selected fellows will typically begin on July 1 for a duration of one year. Potential applicants should provide a detailed application including a personal statement, curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and verification of their prior training experience. Importantly, the program participates in the Craniofacial Fellow Matching Program, thus ensuring a structured application process.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program provides visa sponsorship for international graduates, particularly supporting J-1 visas. Prospective fellows must meet the requirements set forth by the Texas Medical Board and related regulatory bodies to receive necessary permits for training.
In terms of competitiveness, the fellowship is considered highly desirable, attracting applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to pediatric plastic surgery. Candidates are often evaluated based on their academic performance and relevant experience.
Additional Information
Throughout the fellowship, fellows will work closely with attendings and participate in various educational conferences aimed at enhancing surgical skills and clinical judgment. They are also expected to partake in morbidity and mortality reviews as well as prepare presentations for national conferences, facilitating professional development within the domain of pediatric craniofacial surgery. Continuous evaluation is conducted by the faculty to ensure that fellows meet the necessary training objectives and clinical expectations.
Website
Director
James R Seaward, MBBS, MAAssociate Professor Appointed Since August 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$88,055First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Dallas, TX
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Living in Dallas, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Dallas has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. It's essential to research the specific area where you plan to live to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Dallas offers a diverse range of activities such as museums, parks, sports events, vibrant nightlife, and delicious dining options.
- Climate: Dallas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity during summer months.
- Races and Population: Dallas is a diverse city with a significant population of Hispanic, African American, and White residents.
- Education: Dallas is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities to residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Dallas is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Dallas is approximately a 4-hour drive from Houston and a 3-hour drive from Austin. Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and amenities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, affordable cost of living.
- Cons: Traffic congestion, humid summers, safety concerns in some neighborhoods.
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