Vascular Surgery Residency Curriculum
The development of a resident into a skilled vascular surgeon requires extensive experience in the operating room as well as a structured academic environment that will provide the knowledge required to make appropriate decisions in patient management in a timely fashion. An extensive academic curriculum has been developed and forms the nidus around which the residents’ knowledge base develops.
Surgical grand rounds
On a monthly basis between September and June, the department of surgery conducts a formal grand rounds conference, held in the hospital auditorium. A variety of topics pertinent to surgeons are presented throughout the year by attending physicians and visiting professors. Visiting professors also interact with the residents at an informal case conference and social gathering the evening prior to the grand rounds presentation.
Mortality and morbidity conference
The surgical mortality and morbidity conference is one of the major conferences for the residents and staff of the department of surgery. This conference is held on a weekly basis.
Mortalities, as well as significant morbidities, are discussed in the context of the clinical care provided. The senior resident attending the patient at the time of the mortality or morbidity is responsible for the presentation. The audience actively participates in an interchange of opinions and knowledge. Each presentation is referenced to the surgical literature so the educational experience will be enhanced.
Research
Scholarly activity is considered an integral part of the educational process for a vascular surgeon. By pursuing an area of knowledge in depth, the resident learns to read the scientific literature critically and collate information in a fashion that will serve them throughout their career. Residents in the department of surgery have presented papers and posters at numerous regional and national meetings.