University of Virginia Medical Center Program

Program Overview

The University of Virginia Medical Center offers a comprehensive fellowship in Hand Surgery under the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Located in Charlottesville, the program is designed to equip fellows with a high level of expertise in the management of a range of hand and upper extremity conditions. The fellowship emphasizes both surgical and non-surgical management of these complex disorders.

The University of Virginia Hand Division operates a multifaceted medical facility dedicated to care for the hand, wrist, and elbow. The team consists of skilled surgeons, clinical assistants, nurses, and physician assistants who adhere to a collaborative team approach to patient care. Facilities include an onsite radiology department with specialists in musculoskeletal imaging.

Curriculum and Clinical Rotations

The curriculum for the Fellowship program covers a wide array of topics essential for mastering hand surgery. Clinical rotations are structured to provide extensive exposure to various conditions and treatment modalities. These rotations include outpatient services, surgical suites, and rehabilitation, which allow fellows to observe and participate in a variety of surgical techniques, including but not limited to:

• Flexor tendon repairs
• Fracture management of the hand and wrist
• Cubital and Carpal tunnel release
• Complex reconstruction of congenital conditions

Research Opportunities

The program encourages active involvement in research projects relevant to hand surgery. Fellows have access to a robust framework for conducting academic research, including clinical trials and laboratory work dedicated to advancing the field. Collaborations with other departments within the University enhance the research experience.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of the program is its cooperative environment fostered between the Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Plastic Surgery. This collaboration allows fellows to gain a comprehensive perspective of upper extremity conditions and their management.

Moreover, the program hosts an Annual Morgan-McCue Visiting Lectureship in Hand Surgery, further emphasizing its commitment to education and continuing medical education.

Training Sites

Primary training takes place at the UVA Hand Clinic, which offers state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Additional training occurs at the UVA Orthopaedic Center, which provides exposure to a diverse patient demographic and a comprehensive array of upper extremity disorders.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) and can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible candidates. This ensures that a diverse group of fellows can participate in the training program.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is known to be highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and DO graduates. Specific requirements regarding eligibility may include minimum year of graduation from medical school and limits on the number of failed STEP exams, ensuring the selection of qualified candidates.

Post-Graduate Job Opportunities

Graduates of the Hand Surgery Fellowship program are well-prepared to enter various professional paths, including academic positions or clinical practice in private or hospital settings. The extensive training and mentorship received during the fellowship positions them favorably in the job market.