FELLOWSHIP IN SPINAL CORD SURGERY
Overview:
The Fellowship in Spinal Cord Surgery is an intensive, advanced training program aimed at developing comprehensive expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing spinal cord diseases and injuries. Over 12 months, fellows will immerse themselves in a rigorous curriculum that combines extensive clinical experience with advanced surgical training and significant research opportunities. Participants will master a range of surgical techniques, from minimally invasive procedures to complex reconstructions, and gain deep knowledge in managing traumatic injuries, degenerative diseases, tumors, and congenital disorders of the spinal cord. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration with neurologists, radiologists, physiatrists, and rehabilitation specialists, ensuring a holistic patient care experience. Didactic components, including lectures and case discussions, will cover the latest advancements and best practices in spinal cord surgery, while research projects under faculty supervision will foster academic and scientific contributions to the field. Fellows are expected to publish their research and present at conferences, enhancing their academic profile. The program also focuses on comprehensive patient care, from preoperative assessments and patient education to postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation. Evaluation of fellows is multifaceted, ensuring a thorough assessment of clinical skills, research progress, and patient care. The fellowship offers state-of-the-art training facilities, expert mentorship, and career development opportunities, alongside a stipend and benefits. Graduates will emerge as highly skilled surgeons ready to lead and innovate in the field, advancing surgical practices and improving patient outcomes.
Teaching Methods:
Server-based classes
Required Backgrounds:
MBBS / MD/MS/Equivalent
Paperwork:
No application necessary – Enroll today
COURSE MODULES
- Comprehensive understanding of spinal approaches – Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar
This involves learning the various surgical approaches used to access different regions of the spine. For the cervical spine, approaches may include anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), posterior cervical laminectomy, or lateral cervical interbody fusion (XLIF). Thoracic approaches may involve thoracotomy or thoracoscopic procedures. Lumbar approaches could include traditional posterior approaches like laminectomy or newer minimally invasive techniques like microdiscectomy or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). - In-depth study of spinal osteology
Understanding the anatomy and structure of the spine is crucial. This includes detailed knowledge of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, and muscles surrounding the spine. Specific areas of focus would include the anatomy of the cervical vertebrae (C1-C7), typical subaxial cervical spine, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, and sacrum. - Exploration of basic sciences pertinent to the spine
Disc anatomy and biomechanics play a significant role in understanding spine health and pathology. This involves studying the structure and function of intervertebral discs, including the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus, as well as the biomechanical properties of the spine during various activities such as flexion, extension, and rotation. - Introduction to spinal instrumentation basics and metallurgy principles
Spinal instrumentation refers to the use of implants such as rods, screws, plates, and cages to stabilize the spine during surgical procedures. Understanding the basics of spinal instrumentation involves learning about the different types of implants, their indications for use, surgical techniques for implantation, and the biomechanical principles behind their design. Metallurgy principles are also important as they relate to the materials used in spinal implants and their mechanical properties. - Pharmacological management of spine pain and therapeutic exercises
Pharmacological management involves the use of medications to alleviate spine pain and inflammation. This may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, analgesics, and corticosteroids. Therapeutic exercises are also important for improving spine mobility, strength, and stability. These exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises tailored to each patient’s specific condition. - And many more