Hernia & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Fellowship Directory
List compiled by the AHS Residents & Fellows Committee

Applicant Considerations

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As an applicant to an AWR program, it is important to consider what your personal goals are and scrutinize each program closely. Not all hernia fellowships are created equal and there isn’t one “best” fellowship. Here are some of the considerations when looking at programs.

Personal Considerations

• What are your personal career goals for a hernia experience? Are you looking to pursue a career that is 100% hernia, or do you want exposure to other MIS topics (foregut, GI, bariatrics, etc.). This may push you toward one type of program or another.

• What kind of center do I want to train at? Large academic center with complex hernia referrals, inpatient consults, intra-op consults versus community centers with high outpatient volumes?

Quality of Hernia Training

• What is the overall case volume, case breakdown, and case complexity? Will you get exposure to the full spectrum of approaches (open, laparoscopic, robotic) based on your personal career goals?

• How many of the faculty have dedicated AWR fellowship training? How many years into practice?

• Is there a comprehensive exposure to the spectrum of hernia problems (recurrent hernias, infected mesh, EC fistulas, chronic pain, etc.)

• Certain programs provide a broad comprehensive experience for hernia repair. Other programs may favor volumes in one approach versus another (i.e. heavy open vs. heavy robotic programs). Consider your career goals and find the one that fits you.

Quality of Academic/Extra-Curricular Opportunities

• What is the academic productivity of the faculty that you are working with (publications, book chapters, conference speaking opportunities, etc)

• Are there academic opportunities for the fellow?

Important Questions to Ask

• What is the reputation of the program and the faculty outside of that institution? 

• How many residents are on the service, and what is the relationship between learners and fellows?

• What is the support from APPs?

The Complicated Stuff

• What are the requirements for citizenship, medical school/residency training, state licensing?

• Will the institution sponsor a VISA (if necessary)?

• What is the remuneration model? 

• Are there mandatory expectations for call? ACS/EGS call? Coverage at peripheral hospitals?

• Will the institution provide malpractice insurance, medical insurance, benefits?

• For the most part, all programs will specify these details above. If they don’t - ask!

Closing Remarks

There isn’t one perfect program - look for the program that fits your career goals and personal needs. In general, look for programs that have fellowship trained faculty, high case volumes, broad mix of caseload/approach/complexity, and a solid reputation in the hernia community.