The IGCS and Nezhat Family Foundation Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery Training Program
The Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) Training Program offers an opportunity for surgeons specializing in gynecologic oncology to acquire advanced skills in laparoscopy. This six-month program is supported by the Nezhat Family Foundation.
In many areas of the world, there is an unmet need for training and investment in surgical training, including minimally invasive techniques. This program aims to provide mentorship and training with practical and dynamic content, the latest technology, safe surgical approaches, and risk detection. This program bridges both theoretical and practical educational approaches, where trainees will utilize a combination of practical-based learning via periodic assessment and surgical cases, in tandem with completing coursework content with literature readings, lectures, and videos.
The first training program will be hosted by Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey, chosen for its exceptional facilities, faculty, and management structures.
Program Aims and Objectives
- To train attendants in advanced application of minimally invasive pelvic surgery and surgical oncology for gynecologic malignancies.
- Trainees will be expected to demonstrate growth and develop their excellence in the fields of professional development, interpersonal and communication skills, professional conduct, and systems-based practice.
- To bridge both theoretical and practical educational approaches, where trainees will utilize a combination of practical-based learning (periodic assessment and surgical cases) in tandem with completing coursework content (literature readings, lectures, and videos).
- Upon completion, trainees are expected to have gained and demonstrated a basic learning and established competency in the standard minimally invasive techniques in patients with gynecologic benign disease and malignancy.
Eligibility Criteria
The first use of this training curriculum will be implemented at Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey. As such, the eligibility criteria for this particular program is as follows.
- IGCS Member in good standing
- Currently practicing in Africa or the Middle East
- Language:
- English language proficiency required
- Turkish language proficiency recommended but not required
- Medical training
- Registered medical doctor who has completed an accredited residency program in obstetrics and gynecology with additional gynecologic oncology training
- Basic training, knowledge, and experience with minimally invasive surgery
Each applicant will be reviewed by the IGCS Admissions Committee. Trainees will be selected on the basis of their credentials, letters of recommendation, academic record, and interview.
Application Instructions
Required materials to be uploaded with the online application form:
- Proof of current medical license
- Proof of successful completion of medical school (diploma)
- Proof of successful completion of obstetrics and gynecologic residency (diploma)
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV) including the date CV was last revised
- Complete case list from the last 12 months
- Complete appointment history
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Only one letter is required, but up to three will be accepted.
- At least one letter of recommendation from a service chief, program director, or department chairman with whom you most recently have served.
- All letters of recommendation must be on official letterhead, dated and addressed to the IGCS/Nezhat MIS Steering Committee.
- Current digital photograph of yourself
Deadline: Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 8:00 AM TRT (Ankara, Turkey)
Late submissions will not be considered.
Please ensure all required information is accurate, completed, and uploaded before submission. Only completed applications will be reviewed by the IGCS Admissions Committee.
Training Location
Başkent University Hospital
Ankara, Turkey
The first use of this training curriculum will be implemented at Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey. Chosen for its exceptional facilities, faculty, and management structure.
FAQ
How long is the program and when does it begin?
This program duration is 6 months, with a potential start date of October, 2023.
When are applications being accepted?
Applications are being accepted June 20 - July 22, 2023. Applications submitted after July 22 at 8:00 AM TRT (Ankara, Turkey: GMT+3) will not be considered.
Where is the program and is there funding for travel?
Selected trainees will relocate to Ankara, Turkey for the duration of training. A monetary stipend will cover costs for housing, transportation, and meals.
Will this program incorporate robotic techniques?
No. This pilot program will only cover standard laparoscopic techniques at this time. There are plans to incorporate robotic techniques into the curriculum in the future.
How will applicants be assessed?
Each application will be reviewed by the IGCS Admissions Committee and top applicants will be selected for the program on the basis of their credentials, letters of recommendation, academic record, and interview.
Steering Committee
Chair: Dr. David Atallah (Lebanon)
Dr. Rainer Kimmig (Germany)
Dr. Mario Leitao (USA)
Dr. Nadeem Abu-Rustum (USA)
Dr. Ane Gerda Erickson (Norway)
Dr. Hüsnü Celik (Turkey)
Dr. Hüseyin Akilli (Turkey)
Dr. Mike Seoud (Lebanon)
Dr. Leon Snyman (South Africa)
Dr. Monia Hechiche (Tunisia)
Ex-officio
Dr. Ali Ayhan (Turkey)
Dr. Farr Nezhat (USA)
Dr. Greta Dreyer (South Africa)
Ms. Mary Eiken (USA)