Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program

Overview of the Fellowship Program

The fellowship program in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center equips fellows with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and clinical experience to excel as dermatologic surgeons as well as leaders in clinical and academic settings. The primary emphasis of the fellowship is on Mohs Surgery, alongside training in reconstruction and cutaneous oncology, though fellows will also have opportunities to engage in cosmetic procedures during their training.

The program has been structured for one fellow per year since its inception in 1992, and additional fellowship time can be arranged for those seeking further clinical or laboratory experience. The program, which is accredited by the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology, has continually evolved to meet both the educational needs of the fellows and the healthcare demands of the Nashville community. Annually, the program anticipates conducting over 2,000 Mohs surgeries, providing extensive clinical exposure.

Training and Clinical Responsibilities

During the fellowship, the fellow will have the opportunity to master both surgical techniques and histological evaluation involved in Mohs micrographic surgery. The fellow is expected to participate in Mohs surgeries and post-operative care for at least four days each week, initially assisting with cases and gradually taking on primary surgical responsibilities while also instructing dermatology residents in these procedures. Emphasis will also be placed on the repair of surgical defects where approximately 80% of Mohs cases require immediate reconstruction.

The fellow will gain exposure to complex tumor cases and will work collaboratively with specialists in pathology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy to develop comprehensive treatment strategies. General dermatologic surgery procedures, including supervising dermatology residents at the Nashville VA Medical Center, will also form a component of the fellow's clinical experience.

Research and Academic Responsibilities

Research plays a critical role in the fellowship program, as fellows are expected to contribute to the body of knowledge within dermatologic surgery through publications. Each fellow is required to publish a minimum of two papers derived from their fellowship experience and to actively participate in resident education, including didactic lectures and journal clubs. Fellows are also encouraged to attend and present their work at relevant national meetings, with support for attendance at the Annual Meeting of the American College of Mohs Surgery provided by the program.

Application Requirements and Selection Process

Applicants to the fellowship must have completed an approved residency in dermatology and must be board-certified or eligible for certification by the American Board of Dermatology. In cases of board eligibility, fellows must successfully achieve certification at the earliest opportunity. Additional eligibility requirements include possessing a state medical license and qualifying for a staff appointment at the Nashville VA Medical Center.

The fellowship employs the SF Match selection system, and all application materials must be submitted by a specified deadline. Required documentation includes a detailed curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and copies of relevant board certifications, among others.

Training Sites and Additional Learning Opportunities

The primary learning site for the fellowship is at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, a hub for dermatologic care, which offers state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology for Mohs surgery and other dermatological treatments. Fellows will also have educational interactions with other specialists, enhancing their multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Furthermore, the program includes opportunities for additional training outside of routine clinical duties, including attending the Superficial Anatomy and Cutaneous Surgery Course at UC San Diego/Scripps, with tuition costs covered by the program.

Competing for Fellowship Positions

The fellowship is considered highly competitive, appealing to a variety of candidates including recent dermatology graduates from accredited residency programs. The invitation to pursue advanced training in Mohs surgery and cutaneous oncology attracts top talent, making it essential for applicants to present strong credentials, including successful board examinations and exceptional letters of recommendation.

Visa Information

The program supports international applicants through visa sponsorship, specifically offering assistance for J-1 visas. This enables international medical graduates to gain valuable training experiences within the U.S. healthcare system.