The Section of General Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, has one of the most experienced groups of general surgeons in the United States. The six staff members perform more than 1,600 operations annually and have a combined 145 years of experience.

Surgeons at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville specialize in removing cancerous tumors and abdominal wall hernias and have special expertise in surgery of the breast, liver, pancreas, endocrine system, gastrointestinal tract, colon, rectum and vascular system. Surgeons provide modern, comprehensive care for routine problems and for critically ill patients. They are involved in clinical trials to help develop new therapies and procedures and advance the science of medicine.

Surgeons interested in minimally invasive surgery come from multiple disciplines in surgery, information technology, nursing and administration. The ultimate focus of the group is improving patient care. Mayo surgeons offer a collaborative approach to patient care, working closely with colleagues in other surgical and medical specialties to find the best treatment approach for each patient.

Facilities

The Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville operates an inanimate training laboratory for the purpose of honing the skills of staff surgeons and trainees. This facility, as well as the curriculum that has been devised for training, is available to you.

The goal of the center is to eradicate the need for conventional surgery through the development, testing and implementation of less invasive procedures.

Faculty

In addition to caring for patients in clinical practice, Mayo Clinic's faculty is committed to teaching and facilitating the growth of medical knowledge. Many of our faculty members have published and lectured extensively and are highly regarded in their fields.

You have direct access to these individuals throughout your training in the Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship, giving you the opportunity to learn from experienced MIS practitioners.

Advisers and mentors

Faculty advisers are available to provide comprehensive educational advice and personal support. You meet with your adviser periodically throughout the program to review your progress and career goals, and ensure that your educational needs are being met. Also, your adviser may serve as a contact point for introducing you and your family to Jacksonville, Florida, and the Mayo Clinic system.

Visiting professors

Many prominent professors visit Mayo Clinic each year. They present their work during lectures and participate in hospital rounds and informal discussions with trainees. You are encouraged to take full advantage of these educational opportunities.