Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship
Program Overview
Introduction to the University of Texas MD Anderson Reconstructive Microsurgery Fellowship
The University of Texas MD Anderson Reconstructive Microsurgery Fellowship is a one-year program designed to prepare the next leaders in the specialty of microsurgery. The program offers a unique opportunity for board-eligible plastic surgeons interested in microvascular and complex reconstructive surgery required for the definitive care of the oncologic patient.
Program Highlights
- Advanced microsurgical cases across a broad range of disease sites
- Cadaver Flap Course
- Microsurgical Skills Course
- Reconstructive Core Curriculum, including didactic lectures in the basics of surgical oncology, microsurgical techniques, flap selection, and patient management
- Research Opportunities, including one required faculty-sponsored project
- Professional Development Lecture Series
- Clinical Specialist Program
- Journal Club
- Quality Improvement Project
- Robotic Training Program
- Attendance at the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery Annual Meeting
Eligibility, Prerequisites, and Application Process
To be eligible for the program, candidates must have completed a formal plastic surgery residency or the foreign equivalent. They must also be board-eligible in plastic surgery or the foreign equivalent. All applicants must register through the SF Match Website. Interviews are required and conducted annually, by invitation.
Program Goals and Objectives
The objectives of the program include:
- Technical Mastery: Mastering the intricate techniques involved in microsurgery.
- Broad Clinical Experience: Achieving competency through breadth of exposure to subspecialties within microsurgery.
- Case Volume: Participating in high microsurgery case volumes to challenge and accelerate the learning curve.
- Clinical Judgment and Decision-Making: Developing sound clinical judgment and decision-making skills.
- Patient-Centered Care: Prioritizing patient-centered care throughout the fellowship journey.
- Research: Undertaking meaningful research projects.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Fostering collaborative multidisciplinary approaches to patient care.
- Teaching: Providing education, guidance, and support to rotating medical students and residents.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network within the microsurgery community.
- Professionalism: Expanding professional acumen in the organization, execution, and management of a high-volume microsurgery practice.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The program has multiple components, including clinical, research, and didactic responsibilities. The clinical component involves active participation in patient care, while the research component requires completion of a research project. The didactic curriculum includes a 12-month core curriculum series, microsurgical skills course, and flap cadaver course.
Trainee Success and Program Outcomes
The program generates leaders within the field of microsurgery, with fellows routinely receiving multiple competitive job offers. Over 85% of graduates have taken positions at academic institutions nationally and internationally.
Case Breadth and Volume
The program offers a wide range of cases, including:
- Head and Neck: Scalp Reconstruction, Orbital Exenteration, Skull Base Resection, etc.
- Breast: Primary and delayed autologous reconstruction, Alternative flaps, etc.
- Trunk: Chest Wall Reconstruction, Abdominal Wall Reconstruction, etc.
- Pelvis: Internal and External Hemipelvectomy, Sacrectomy, etc.
- Extremity: Limb Salvage, Fillet flaps for amputations, etc.
- Lymphedema: Diagnostic staging and on-table imaging, Lymphovenous bypass, etc.
- Nerve: Facial Nerve Reconstruction, Extremity Nerve Reconstruction, etc.
Clinical Specialist Program
The Clinical Specialist program allows fellows with a valid Texas Medical License to act as attending physicians with independent hospital and admitting privileges. This program provides valuable experience in patient work-up, reconstructive surgery, and postoperative management.
Fellow and Faculty Publications
The program has a strong research focus, with numerous publications by fellows and faculty in reputable journals.
Program Faculty and Leadership
The program is led by experienced faculty, including Margaret (Meg) Roubaud, M.D., F.A.C.S., and Jessie Z. Yu, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Why This Program
The MD Anderson Reconstructive Microsurgery Fellowship offers unparalleled experience in microsurgery due to the volume, breadth, and complexity of cases. The program is designed to prepare fellows for comprehensive microsurgical care and provides access to exceptional resources and benefits.
Institutional Benefits and Support
GME trainees receive a salary stipend, health insurance, retirement planning, disability insurance, and six weeks of parental leave. The institution also offers support for research, academic mentoring, and wellness initiatives.
Location and Quality of Life
The program is located in Houston, Texas, which offers a low cost of living, cultural diversity, and a wide range of entertainment and recreational activities.