University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine Program

Overview of the Surgery Program

The Surgery Program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) is a prestigious department within the College of Medicine that has a long-standing commitment to training future leaders in the field of surgery. The program encompasses 11 divisions and is deeply involved in patient care, education, and research initiatives aimed at improving surgical outcomes in Nebraska and beyond 1.

Curriculum and Training

The residency offers comprehensive training in various surgical specialties. Residents participate in a broad range of clinical rotations, which provide exposure to different surgical procedures and practices in diverse settings, including major academic medical centers, private practices, and pediatric surgery 4. The General Surgery Residency specifically has six categorical positions available each year, supported by a robust mentorship structure whereby first-year residents are paired with third-year residents as mentors 8.

Clinical Rotations

The surgical residency incorporates extensive clinical exposure through rotations in various specialties that include, but are not limited to:

• Acute Care Surgery
• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Colon & Rectal Surgery
• General Surgery, including Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) and Bariatric Surgery
• Pediatric Surgery
• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Transplant Surgery
• Urologic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery

Training occurs at several key sites, including Nebraska Medicine, Methodist Hospital, Children’s Nebraska, and the Omaha VA Medical Center 7.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as a vital aspect of surgical education. Residents and trainees are strongly encouraged to engage in various research activities ranging from basic science to clinical and translational research. The goal is to establish the research enterprise as one of the top-tier programs recognized nationally. The program offers numerous grants and collaboration opportunities, particularly in cardiovascular research and surgical applications 9.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Surgery Program is recognized for fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging, ensuring that all individuals from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to develop and excel. This inclusive atmosphere is crucial in preparing residents for the multifaceted nature of modern surgical practice 2.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program actively supports international medical graduates by providing visa sponsorship, specifically for J-1 visas, which are often essential for IMGs wishing to train in the U.S. The residency program is known to be competitive, welcoming both U.S. and international applicants. Its structure and support systems make it particularly friendly toward DO and IMG candidates 6.

Application Requirements

Applicants for the Surgery Residency at UNMC should have completed their medical education within the last few years. Specific requirements might include restrictions on the number of attempts of the STEP exams and completion of prerequisite clinical experiences. It is important for potential applicants to familiarize themselves with the unique criteria specific to the program 3.

Conclusion of Training

Graduates of the UNMC Surgery Residency are highly regarded. They are expected to be board-certified and are well-prepared for their future careers, whether in academic medicine, community practice, or specialized surgical fields. The combination of surgical training, research involvement, and clinical practice ensures that residents leave the program as competent and compassionate surgeons, ready for the challenges of their careers 5.