University of Washington Program

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship at the University of Washington is a one-year, ACGME-accredited clinical program designed to provide extensive training in the anesthesia management of patients undergoing complex cardiothoracic surgeries, catheter-based cardiovascular interventions, and electrophysiological procedures. Based primarily at the University of Washington Medical Center – Montlake campus, this fellowship aims to cultivate highly competent anesthesiologists proficient in advanced perioperative care, including echocardiography.

This fellowship program includes a robust curriculum that integrates didactic education and hands-on clinical training. Weekly seminars are dedicated to the anesthesia and perioperative management of cardiothoracic patients. These educational opportunities are supplemented with relevant lectures and seminars from related programs such as Cardiology and Critical Care Medicine.

Clinical Experience

Fellows engage in a variety of clinical rotations that provide comprehensive exposure to cardiothoracic anesthesiology. The program includes:

• Cardiac OR (35 weeks): Involvement in approximately 700-800 complex cardiac surgeries annually, residents will personally manage anesthesia care while also supervising residents under direct faculty supervision.
• Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (4 weeks): Fellows learn critical care management of post-operative cardiothoracic patients through direct patient care and didactic learning.
• Adult Echocardiography Lab (3 weeks): Fellows obtain practical experience in transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography.
• Thoracic OR (4 weeks): Provides exposure to various thoracic procedures, enhancing skills in anesthetic management for complex surgeries.

Elective Rotations

In addition to the core curriculum, fellows can participate in elective two-week rotations in areas such as:

• Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic
• Cardiopulmonary Perfusion
• Cardiac Care Unit
• Cardiac Implanted Electronic Device Management
• Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesiology (subject to availability)

Conferences & Didactic Sessions

The fellowship program features a comprehensive conference schedule that includes:

• Weekly didactic sessions
• Transesophageal echocardiography rounds
• Interdisciplinary Case Conferences
• Quarterly Journal Club sessions
• Quality Improvement seminars

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities and may explore opportunities within the realms of clinical care, safety in anesthesiology, or advancements in perioperative techniques.

Financial and Leave Policies

Compensation for the fellowship is in accordance with the UW GME salary schedule, and fellows receive an academic allowance to support their professional development. Regarding leave, the program adheres to the American Board of Anesthesiology guidelines, permitting up to 20 working days of absence per training year.

Visa Support

For international applicants, the program accepts J-1 visas sponsored by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The program does not typically offer H-1B sponsorship unless specific conditions are met.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the SF Match centralized application process and submit additional supporting documents, including medical school transcripts, recommendation letters, and ECFMG certification (if applicable). Interviews are conducted remotely.

Competitiveness and Requirements

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship is highly competitive, welcoming both MD and DO applicants, including international medical graduates. Applicants should have a robust academic background and relevant clinical experience, with maximum failed Step examinations typically not exceeding one attempt.