UPMC Medical Education Program

UPMC Vascular Surgery Residency and Fellowship Program Overview

The UPMC Vascular Surgery Program offers integrated training opportunities designed to prepare the next generation of vascular surgeons through comprehensive education, advanced clinical exposure, and innovative research. The program includes a five-year accredited residency and a two-year fellowship, which focus on the latest in vascular technologies and clinical practices.

Program Structure

The five-year integrated residency program is structured to include the following:

• Core Surgical Training (Years 1-2): Residents complete essential general surgery rotations, alongside body imaging radiology and cardiology rotations, establishing a solid foundation in basic surgical principles.
• Vascular Surgery Training (Years 3-5): The last three years are dedicated exclusively to vascular surgery, providing in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in a full range of vascular procedures.
• Research Component: Residents participate in a mandatory two-year research period under a T32 training grant, enabling them to engage in significant research in basic science, clinical studies, or biomechanical engineering, with the option to pursue an MSc degree.

1

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

Residents in the program gain diverse clinical experience through rotations across various UPMC facilities, including:

• UPMC Presbyterian
• UPMC Shadyside
• UPMC Passavant
• UPMC St. Margaret
• UPMC Mercy
• UPMC Montefiore
• Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC
• VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

This rotation structure presents residents with a wide array of cases involving both open and endovascular surgical techniques, allowing them to gain comprehensive operative experience. Each resident is expected to manage substantial case volumes, with experience in over 300 cases annually.

2

Operative Experience

The program aims to provide residents with extensive exposure to a variety of vascular pathologies and procedures. Operative experiences cover:

• Aortic diseases and repairs
• An aneurysm management
• Carotid artery stenosis treatments
• Peripheral arterial disease interventions
• Management of traumatic vascular injuries and dialysis access
• Venous pathology management, including DVT therapy

The balance between endovascular and open procedures prepares residents for modern vascular surgery challenges.

3

Educational Opportunities

The curriculum encompasses a variety of educational activities, including:

• Weekly academic conferences featuring lectures and case discussions, eligible for CME credits.
• Regular morbidity and mortality reviews and journal clubs to encourage critical analysis of clinical practice.
• Access to clinical trials and research opportunities aimed at fostering innovation in vascular health.

4

Application Process and Requirements

To apply for the UPMC Vascular Surgery Residency or Fellowship, applicants must submit:

• ERAS application
• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Official medical school transcript
• Dean's letter
• 3-4 letters of recommendation
• USMLE Board scores

Interviews are held by invitation, requiring a personal assessment of each candidate's potential fit within the program. Applicants are encouraged to arrive a day prior for a dinner with program faculty and trainees.

Special Requirements

The program welcomes applications from International Medical Graduates. All international applicants must possess a current and valid ECFMG certificate, and there is no specific score cutoff for the USMLE. However, all exams must be passed. The program prefers sponsorship of J-1 visas for residency training.

5

Research Initiatives

Research is a cornerstone of the UPMC Vascular Surgery Program. Opportunities range from basic science studies to clinical trials addressing current vascular issues. Research topics include neointimal hyperplasia, gene therapy, angiogenesis in ischemic conditions, and innovative treatment strategies for vascular diseases.

Support for Research

The program facilitates resident participation in research through assigned mentors and access to robust biostatistical resources, enhancing the overall research output.

6

Residency and Fellowship Benefits

Prospective participants in the UPMC Vascular Surgery program can expect numerous benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and excellent faculty support
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• Three weeks of vacation annually
• Financial support for academic travel and conferences
• Educational fund for resources and materials
• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Long-term disability insurance

7

Community Engagement and Alumni Outcomes

UPMC fosters a supportive community for residents through networking with an extensive alumni network. Graduates have advanced numerous practical and academic careers, underscoring the program's lasting impact in the field of vascular surgery.

Alumni are encouraged to engage as mentors and contribute to ongoing program improvement and outreach initiatives.

8