MCS Curriculum

Through didactic and clinical instruction, the fellows will be able to accurately describe indications for LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) use, operative techniques for implantation therapy.  To ensure completion of these goals the trainee will work side-by- side with our heart failure surgeons.  The fellows will be able to successfully and thoroughly present potential patients to the Medical Review Board for transplant and LVAD review board for approval as well present patients at the regularly scheduled transplant Mortality and Morbidity (M&M) conference.

Program Goals:

  1. To provide an advanced educational experience in the field of cardiopulmonary support and heart transplantation.
  2. To provide excellent operative training under close supervision in complex surgical and interventional procedures
  3. To provide extensive didactic material to enrich the clinical experience
  4. To train fellows in complex heart transplant procedures including high-risk reoperative interventions
  5. To train fellows in implantation, exchange and removal of different ventricular assist devices (VAD) and exposure to the most advanced technology in mechanical circulatory support
  6. To train fellows in the perioperative care of advanced heart failure patients.
  7. To provide fellows with the opportunity of participating in research projects
  8. To provide fellows with the opportunity to present lecture topics in the field at national and international conferences
  9. To provide fellows with the opportunity of publishing clinical and research work results in peer-reviewed journals
  10. To provide fellows with a graded increase in clinical responsibilities in order to obtain high operative and clinical decision making skills necessary in the transition to independent practice.