The first years of practice of young spine surgeons in Latin America: why fellowships matter

The journey from residency to becoming an established spine surgeon is marked by significant challenges and opportunities, particularly in Latin America. For young spine surgeons, the first few years of practice are crucial in shaping their careers. These years are not only a period of professional growth but also a time to solidify their skills, establish a reputation, and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system in their respective countries. One of the most impactful avenues for accelerating this process is the completion of a fellowship program, such as the one offered by AO Spine.

Jose Rafael Dangond, Alfredo Guiroy, Omar Marroquín Herrera, Guisela Quinteros, Pedro Couri, Fernando Alvarado, Nelson Astur:  The First Years of Practice of Young Spine Surgeons in Latin America, World Neurosurgery, Volume 190, 2024. 

Why fellowship programs are important

Fellowships are advanced training programs that provide specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in a specific area of medicine. For spine surgeons, fellowships are an invaluable resource, offering them the opportunity to refine their surgical skills, learn new techniques, and gain exposure to the latest advancements in spine surgery. In Latin America, where the healthcare landscape is diverse and often challenging, fellowships can bridge the gap between residency and independent practice, equipping young surgeons with the tools they need to succeed.

The AO Spine Fellowship is one such program that has garnered attention in the region. According to a recent survey with associates and short-term fellows who completed their fellowship within the past five years, the program has had a significant impact on their early years of practice. The survey, which included 46 spine surgeons from across Latin America, revealed that the fellowship program plays a critical role in the professional development of young surgeons.

More confidence in degenerative spine after fellowship

The survey results provide a comprehensive overview of the first three years of practice for young spine surgeons in Latin America. Notably, the countries with the highest participation in the AO Spine Fellowship program are Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia, with Argentina leading at 30.7%. The majority of participants were between the ages of 36 and 45, and a significant 75% of them were orthopaedists.

One of the most striking findings was that 95% of the respondents reported feeling more comfortable working in degenerative spine pathology after completing the fellowship. This highlights the effectiveness of the program in enhancing the clinical confidence of young surgeons. Moreover, while the standard posterior approach remains the preferred method for many, there is a growing interest in endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques among junior surgeons. This shift in interest reflects the ongoing evolution in surgical practices and the importance of staying abreast of new developments in the field.

Completing a fellowship opens many doors

The advantages of completing a fellowship extend beyond the immediate improvement in surgical skills. For young spine surgeons in Latin America, a fellowship can open doors to new opportunities, both locally and internationally. 

It enhances their professional network, provides access to a wealth of knowledge and resources, and often leads to better job prospects. Additionally, fellowships can help surgeons overcome some of the common challenges they face in their early careers, such as the lack of standardized training and the uneven levels of experience across different countries in the region.

Furthermore, the fellowship experience can be a critical factor in the decision-making process for surgeons who are considering whether to stay in their home country or seek opportunities abroad. The survey indicated that many young surgeons who participated in the AO Spine Fellowship felt more prepared to handle the demands of their profession, regardless of where they chose to practice.

AO Spine fellowships position surgeons for future success

The first years of practice for young spine surgeons in Latin America are pivotal in defining their career trajectory. The AO Spine Fellowship program has proven to be a valuable asset in this critical phase, offering young surgeons the training, experience, and confidence they need to excel in their field. As the demand for spine surgery continues to grow in the region, the role of fellowships in shaping the next generation of spine surgeons cannot be overstated.

By participating in such programs, young surgeons not only enhance their technical skills but also position themselves for long-term success in a competitive and rapidly evolving field. As the survey results suggest, the impact of fellowships like AO Spine goes beyond the operating room, influencing the broader professional landscape for spine surgeons in Latin America.