Interventional Pulmonology Fellowship

As a program within larger healthcare institutions, we approach patient care as multidisciplinary team of experts including pulmonologists, interventional pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, respiratory therapists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologist, and nurses. It is through the combined efforts of all these individuals that we are able to achieve exceptional patient care and offer incredible learning opportunities for new fellows.

Our approach

Rotations

Fellowship rotations include IP bronchoscopy, thoracic surgery, ENT, and interventional gastroenterology.

Diagnostic procedures

Interventional pulmonology fellows use advanced technologies, such as robotic, electromagnetic navigational, digital tomosynthesis, narrow band imagining, and fluoroscopy to visualize the lungs and airways. They perform procedures like transbronchial endobronchial biopsies, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and pleural biopsy to diagnose various lung diseases including lung cancer, interstitial lung disease, and infections.

Therapeutic interventions

Interventional pulmonology fellows will learn to deliver targeted treatments directly to the affected area of the lung. This may include procedures like bronchial thermoplasty for severe asthma, endobronchial stent placement for airway obstruction, bronchial artery embolization for massive hemoptysis (bleeding from the lungs), photodynamic therapy, laser, argon plasma coagulation, endobronchial valve placement for emphysema, as well as many other cutting-edge modalities to improve patient care and outcomes.

Pleural interventions

Interventional pulmonology fellows also specialize in managing diseases of the pleura, the thin membrane that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs. They perform procedures such as thoracentesis (fluid removal from the chest cavity), pleural biopsy, pleuroscopy (medical thoracoscopy), and pleurodesis (fusion of the pleural layers) to diagnose and treat conditions like pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid), pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and pleural infections.

Advanced technology and research

Fellows have access to cutting-edge technologies and participate in clinical trials to evaluate new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for lung diseases. This allows patients to benefit from the latest advancements in the field and the fellows the opportunity to train in these cutting-edge areas.

Multidisciplinary care

Collaboration among different specialties is a hallmark of interventional pulmonary programs. Pulmonologists work closely with thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs.

Patient education and support

Education plays a crucial role in managing lung diseases effectively. Interventional pulmonary programs often provide resources and support to help patients understand their condition, treatment options, and self-care strategies for better lung health.

The RUMC interventional pulmonary program offers a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and management of complex lung conditions, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques that reduce patient discomfort and recovery time while achieving optimal outcomes.

How to apply

RUMC participates in the electronic Interventional Pulmonary Fellowship Application System© (IPFAS). All applications are processed through this system. Information regarding the application process and timeline is available through the Association of Interventional Pulmonary Program Directors at aippd.org.

Application requirements

• Three (3) letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcript
• Color photograph – wallet size
• USMLE transcripts
• Curriculum vitae
• Demonstrated research and clinical interest in interventional pulmonology
• Applicants need to have or must obtain an Illinois Medical License

Eligibility

Eligibility for the interventional pulmonary fellowship program requires a minimum of six years of ACGME-accredited training in internal medicine and pulmonary/critical care medicine. Applicants must be ABIM Board certified in internal medicine and Board eligible in pulmonary/critical care medicine.

The application deadline for the upcoming academic year is August 31, 2024.