Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children's Hospital (B-JH/SLCH) Consortium Program in Hand Surgery (Orthopaedic Surgery) at St. Louis is a unique training opportunity tailored for orthopedic surgeons looking to specialize in hand surgery. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum centered on advanced surgical techniques, research opportunities, and real-world clinical experiences in a collaborative environment.

Curriculum Overview

The Hand Surgery fellowship program encompasses a well-rounded curriculum designed to equip residents with the necessary skills and knowledge in hand surgical techniques. Through rigorous training, residents can expect to master both open and arthroscopic surgical procedures related to hand and upper extremity pathology. The curriculum incorporates didactic lectures, hands-on workshops, and clinical rotations to provide a broad understanding of hand surgery.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Rotational experiences form the backbone of the program, allowing trainees to spend time in various settings, including the private practice environment as well as in university-affiliated hospitals. This diversified rotation schedule affords fellows the opportunity to encounter a wide range of cases, enhancing their clinical acumen and decision-making skills in hand surgery.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities throughout their training. The program emphasizes the importance of scholarly work by providing ample opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects, both basic and clinical. Fellows will have access to mentorship and guidance from experienced faculty members, facilitating the development of their research proposals and the potential for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinguishing features of this fellowship is its dedication to the comprehensive training of hand surgeons through interdisciplinary collaboration. Fellows gain experience in various subspecialties, which allows for a broader understanding of the treatment of complex hand conditions. In addition, the program is characterized by its focus on innovation in surgical education, integrating advanced simulations and surgical techniques.

Training Sites

The fellowship offers exposure to multiple high-volume training sites, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children's Hospital. This provides a wealth of resources and experiences, exposing residents to a diverse patient population and various clinical settings. The access to leading professionals and cutting-edge technology enhances the overall training experience.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the program predominantly sponsors J-1 visas for residency training. In some instances, the program may also consider H-1B visas based on individual circumstances; however, this is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. For those requiring visa sponsorship, it is advisable to communicate early with relevant administration regarding potential pathways.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

This Hand Surgery fellowship program is known for its competitive selection process. Applicants are typically required to have completed an accredited orthopedic surgery residency. Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate excellence in their performances on USMLE exams; passing Step 1 on the first attempt is generally favored, although Step 2 CK scores are not a prerequisite for application submission.

Application Specifics

Application materials must include a complete ERAS application, three letters of recommendation from orthopedic surgeons, and medical school transcripts. International medical graduates should check with the ECFMG for further application guidance. The timeline for applications, interviews, and selections aligns with the broader surgical fellowship application processes.

Conclusion

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children's Hospital Consortium Program in Hand Surgery offers an unparalleled fellowship experience, integrated with innovative training methodologies and expansive clinical exposure. This program stands out for its commitment to producing skilled hand surgeons prepared to tackle a variety of complex cases.