International Visiting Scholar Program
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Rationale
Technological advances have dramatically changed traditional general surgery in the last few years. These technological changes continue. Most surgeons completing credentialed residency programs are currently inadequately prepared to apply these advances in a useful fashion. Additionally, the application of this new technology must be performed by experienced individuals in a structured setting, allowing the responsible development and critical review of new techniques and practices in minimally invasive surgery to be applied on a larger scale.
It is the goal of this program to:
- Expose trained surgeons to advanced application of new techniques in minimally invasive surgery.
- Prepare individuals to train others in the application of this new technology.
- Include these individuals in the development of new applications and technology and provide them with the guidance and the resources to develop independent investigational projects evaluating treatment modalities in minimally invasive surgery.
Curriculum
- The time frame is flexible based on the individual preference. We feel a minimum experience of one month is necessary and more than 6 months may not be necessary.
- The laparoscopic experience will include training through observation in advanced surgical techniques including common duct exploration, hernia repair, bowel resection, gastroesophageal surgery, robotic surgery, bariatric surgery and solid organ removal. Advanced thoracoscopic procedures including diagnostic thoracoscopy, treatment of pneumothorax, biopsy, and esophageal surgery will be included.
- Observation of flexible endoscopy, including diagnostic, therapeutic and advanced upper and lower endoscopy of the GI tract and ERCP will be available.
- The scholar will be trained in methods of instruction for basic laparoscopic and advanced laparoscopic techniques and skills in animate and inanimate models, as well as in the operating room.
- The scholar will be given the opportunity and expected to participate and institute investigational projects on the pathophysiology of laparoscopy, development of experimental techniques, and the impact of minimally invasive surgical techniques on the practice of surgery.
* It would be expected that the clinical material content and experience be tailored to the individual’s desire and would be scheduled in advance.
Program Site
- Clinical material will be obtained at the institutions listed below. Each hospital is accredited by the JCAH and is the primary site of practice of at least one of the individuals identified as faculty.(see appendix B).
- The Ohio State University Medical Center
- James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
- Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital
- Research and Laboratory Facilities.
- Wiseman Hall and The Ohio State University Medical Center campus provides space for housing and operating rooms for large animals. The facilties are certified by The Ohio State University, the Animal Research Committee, and the Institutional Laboratory and Animal Use Committee. Under the supervision of a veterinarian and a veterinary technicians, operating room facilities are available.
- Administrative Space
- Office space is available for the identified scholar within the Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery at the Ohio State University.
Scholar Responsibilities
- Clinical
- Evaluate patients preoperatively with teaching faculty.
- Observe surgery by the teaching faculty.
- Assist in postoperative care in conjunction with resident staff under the supervision of teaching faculty.
- Assist faculty with teaching residents basic laparoscopic procedures in the operating room.
- Educational and Teaching Responsibilities
- Prepare and attend monthly minimally invasive surgery conferences.
- Attend biweekly GI medicine/surgical conference at The Ohio State University Hospital.
- Attend morbidity and mortality conferences at the participating institutions.
- Participate in instruction of basic and laparoscopic techniques to PGY1, PGY2, and PGY3 residents in a laparoscopic training lab at Ohio State's University campus.
- Participate in the instruction of surgeons within the community who desire advanced practical experience within the animal laboratory facilities.
- Participate as an instructor or lecturer in advanced laparoscopic training courses in animal models.
- Assist in the collection and interpretation of data for ongoing clinical and experimental programs.
- Participate in large animal surgery (canine, bovine) in the lab setting, developing new procedures, product testing, and experimental protocols.
Academic Requirements
- Completion of a recognized training program in general surgery
- A desire to develop expertise and experience in various aspects of Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Competency in written and spoken English
Selection Requirements
- Must be eligible for a J-1 Visa (or equivalent)
- Must have proof of health insurance for the duration of the stay
- Must show proof financial responsibility. There is no stipend or scholarship available from Ohio State. Scholars must cover all expenses, including housing, food, utilities and other unforeseen expenses (estimated at $1000 US dollars/month).
- A phone interview will be conducted with selected applicants.