SKH Fellowship Programme in Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) Care and Reconstruction

Duration: 6 Months
Location: Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
Stipend: Covers living expenses

Overview:

Sengkang General Hospital’s Diabetic Limb Salvage (DLS) Fellowship Programme offers an opportunity for surgeons specialising in vascular surgery, orthopaedic surgery, and plastic and hand reconstructive surgery to gain advanced training in comprehensive diabetic foot care and limb salvage. The programme focuses on the multidisciplinary management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs), integrating innovative surgical techniques and medical care to reduce amputation rates and enhance patient outcomes.

Programme Structure:

Over the course of six months, fellows will participate in all aspects of DFU care, from initial diagnosis and wound management to advanced reconstructive surgery. The programme emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration, enabling fellows to work closely with other specialists such as orthopaedic, plastic, and hand surgeons, as well as specialists in vascular surgery, endocrinology, interventional radiology, podiatry, and allied health.

Key Training Areas:

• Wound Assessment and Diagnostic Imaging: Fellows will gain expertise in the evaluation of DFUs, including diagnostic imaging techniques such as duplex ultrasound and X-rays for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and osteomyelitis (OM).
• Advanced Revascularisation and Wound Management: Fellows will be involved in revascularisation procedures (e.g. angioplasty) for PAD patients and surgical management of OM, including soft tissue debridement and minor amputations.
• Reconstructive Surgery: A core component of the fellowship involves mastering advanced reconstructive techniques to restore limb function. Fellows will participate in functional procedures such as tendon releases, nerve decompressions, and Charcot foot reconstructions, often performed in single surgical sessions to minimise anaesthesia risk.
• Multidisciplinary Rounds and Case Discussions: Fellows will attend twice-weekly multidisciplinary team (MDT) rounds, contributing to collaborative decision-making alongside specialists from orthopaedics, plastic surgery, endocrinology, and podiatry.
• Post-Operative Care and Rehabilitation: Fellows will also learn about comprehensive post-operative care, working with physiotherapists, podiatrists, and dietitians to optimise patient rehabilitation and prevent recurrence.

Fellowship Highlights:

• Mentorship from Leading Experts: Fellows will be guided by our clinicians, including Dr Png Wenxian, Dr Ch'Ng Jack Kian and, Dr Feng Jiajun who have extensive experience in DFU care and limb reconstruction.
• Hands-on Surgical Experience: Participants will have ample opportunities to perform surgeries under expert supervision, refining their skills in complex limb preservation and reconstruction.
• International Exposure: Fellows will engage with visiting clinicians and learn from guest lectures on the latest advancements in diabetic foot care.
• Comprehensive Patient Care: The fellowship emphasises holistic patient care, with an integrated focus on medical, surgical, and allied health interventions.

Eligibility:

This fellowship is open to surgeons with a background in:

• Vascular Surgery
• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Plastic and Hand Reconstructive Surgery

Applicants must have completed their residency or equivalent training and demonstrate a strong interest in diabetic limb salvage and reconstructive surgery.

Fellowship Benefits:

• Stipend: A competitive stipend will be provided, covering living expenses during the fellowship in Singapore.
• Living Accommodations: Assistance with housing will be offered to international fellows, ensuring a smooth transition.
• Professional Development: Upon completion, fellows will receive certification of training in Diabetic Limb Salvage from Sengkang General Hospital 

Application Proceess:

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
•  A letter of intent explaining their interest in the fellowship and how it aligns with their career goals
• Two letters of recommendation from surgical mentors or supervisors
• Proof of surgical training and qualifications

Application Deadline:

Applications are open year-round, with three fellowship spots available each term. Fellows will be selected based on their experience, academic achievements, and commitment to advancing diabetic limb care. 

This fellowship programme offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of diabetic limb salvage, providing world-class training in a dynamic multidisciplinary environment.

For further information and application submission, please contact the Sengkang General Hospital Fellowship Office at sheppo@skh.com.sg.