A neurosurgery residency is a 7-8 year training program to become a certified neurosurgeon. The first year focuses on general surgery, while the rest focuses on neurosurgery and neurology. The final year includes independent clinical experience and specialization in a chosen subspecialty field. Admission requires an application review process.
A neurosurgery residency is a seven- to eight-year training program, completed after college and medical school, to gain credentialing and experience to become a certified neurosurgeon. The amount and allocation of time spent in residency will depend on specific regional certification standards requirements as well as residency program requirements. In the United States, the American Council on Neurological Research determines the accreditation requirements for qualified neurosurgery residency programs. A residency includes an initial foundation skills internship, followed by years of clinical neurosurgery and neurology, culminating in time spent in a leadership position and final specialization within the field.
Typically, the first year of a residency is spent focusing on practicing clinical skills in general surgery or fields other than neurosurgery, such as experience in emergency room or anesthesiology. The goal is usually to have a resident gain experience in other fields, as well as learn the basic fundamentals of neurology and neurosurgery. Medical clinical rounds may be held with a neurologist or neurosurgeon during this time.
After the first year of general surgery residency, the neurosurgery residency itself begins with a focus on neurosurgery and neurology. Regional accreditation programs may require a specific amount of time for this internship, although specific requirements, such as how much time must be spent at an institution of residence, may vary. The focus of that time is usually on diagnosing problems, followed by determining management and treatment. It is also usually within these first few years that a written certification exam is administered, depending on regional requirements.
Later years during a neurosurgery residency may include time spent with expertise in neurology, neuropathology, or neuroradiology. Generally, time in a leadership position is also required for certification, usually in a capacity of experience as a Resident Chief. The final years of a residency will differ from program to program, as some will focus on different subspecialties within the field, such as epilepsy or laboratory research experience. Other subspecialties include pediatric, endovascular, and complex spine surgery. The final year of a neurosurgery residency will primarily include independent clinical experience and individual focus in a chosen subspecialty field.
Neurosurgery residency programs require admission in the same way as medical school, with an application review process that includes submission of letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an interview process. Upon completion of residency, individuals enter public and private institutions and hospitals, as well as the option to enter academia for laboratory research or teaching positions. The allocation of time in the residency and the focus of the residency program itself often determine the outcome of an individual’s future career within the field.
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