Hey guys
are 6 year programs typically weaker than 7 year programs? What do you think are the pros of a 7year program? thanks

There is no difference in operative capabilities.  There are no “pros” to a seventh year.  If the IOM keeps up with duty restrictions, you’ll all be doing 10 years.

Some programs like USC, Iowa, VCU, UF, and MGH give you instructor status your 7th year so you can operate independently.  That’s something I’m definitely looking forward to.

GoodToHook - 26 June 2010 04:35 PM

Some programs like USC, Iowa, VCU, UF, and MGH give you instructor status your 7th year so you can operate independently.  That’s something I’m definitely looking forward to.

Not to be cynical, but some programs do this so that the “real attendings” don’t have to take trauma call (or any call).  The most ‘independent’ 7th year would occur in a 6 year program.  The difference is in compensation.

GoodToHook - 26 June 2010 04:35 PM

Some programs like USC, Iowa, VCU, UF, and MGH give you instructor status your 7th year so you can operate independently.  That’s something I’m definitely looking forward to.

lol, you’re looking forward to doing all the scut cases the real attendings don’t want on their census?

As stated above, if you really want to “operate independently” in your 7th year, you should go to a 6yr program.  Both program lengths have produced excellent surgeons and not-so-excellent surgeons.

thanks for the input!

I heard Memphis is 6 years with no research, can anyone confirm?

At the present, Memphis is a six year program, though there has been some discussion of this changing.  It is a heavy operative program and there is an emphasis on clinical neurosurgery and it lacks a “research year,” although the residents are expected to publish during their residency.