About the Program

Overview

• The URMC Interventional Spine Fellowship program comprises a comprehensive one-year outpatient clinical experience designed to solidify fundamentals of evidence-based interventional spine care. 
• Exposure to prevalent spinal disorders and commonly employed diagnostic and treatment algorithms in the clinical setting will serve as a foundation upon which to evaluate the patient presenting with spinal pain. 
• The use of fluoroscopically guided interventional spine procedures in order to elicit diagnostic data and provide target specific treatment is innate in this process. 
• Exposure to Orthopedic spine surgery, Neuroradiology, and structured didactics uniquely positions the fellow in fortifying an all-encompassing experience. 
• The objective is to enable the fellow to develop an expertise in the algorithmic approach to interventional spine care, to facilitate proficiency in the evaluation and treatment of spinal disorders, and technical mastery of interventional spine procedures.

Objectives

• Identify typical presentations for anatomic sources of spine pain, including pertinent patient history in predicting specific pain generators
• Enhance targeted neurologic and orthopedic exam skills
• Assimilate clinical information to efficiently develop a focused diagnostic and treatment plan including appropriate selection of imaging, electrodiagnostic studies, and spine procedures
• Understand indications for selection of commonly performed interventional spine procedures
• Develop technical proficiency in performing fluoroscopically guided spine procedures under direct supervision of attending
• Develop proficiency in the interpretation and appraisal of imaging including radiography, MRI, CT, and CT myelography
• Understand indications for surgical referral
• Learn to effectively manage a high volume spine clinic both independently and under attending supervision
• Promptly and efficiently manage patient related inquiries
• Participate in resident education

Rotations

• Generous elective time
• Home call
• Diverse patient population
• Participation in continuity clinics

Focus on Wellness

• Strong focus on resident wellness with ample wellness, team building and social events. The University of Rochester also has an award winning health and wellness program.
• Close-knit program with a family-friendly atmosphere

Our Facilities

The University of Rochester Medical Center's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency Program is sponsored by Strong Memorial Hospital (SMH)—a 886-bed, Level I trauma center that serves as URMC's main teaching hospital. The hospital is a tertiary and quaternary care referral center for upstate New York, as well as a bone marrow, cardiac, liver, and renal transplant center. It is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCH) and has been named one of America's best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.