VascFellow
Menu
ProgrammesClinical fellowshipsResearch fellowshipsObservershipsCountriesCitiesGlobal coverageSubspecialtiesInstitutionsOrganizationsFacultyDeadline evidenceApplication watchApplicant guidesApplication dashboardSaved programmesCompare programmesData reportsData quality
Submit a programme

Clinical due diligence

How to assess operative exposure without marketing claims

Published case volume, service volume and fellow participation are different facts. A high-volume centre does not automatically provide a specific fellow with hands-on experience.

Define the exposure you need

  • Open reconstruction
  • Endovascular intervention
  • Complex aortic planning
  • Limb salvage
  • Venous intervention
  • Vascular access
  • Trauma
  • Ultrasound and diagnostics

Ask about the fellow’s role

  • Observation, assistance or defined procedural steps
  • Progression during the programme
  • Number and level of competing trainees
  • Simulation and planning responsibilities
  • Logbook or competency assessment
  • Effect of registration restrictions

Interpret numbers carefully

Ask whether a number represents the institution, service, consultant, programme or individual fellow. Request the period, procedure definition and whether the figures are audited. Do not compare numbers with different denominators.

Look beyond volume

Case selection, supervision, feedback, imaging review, complication analysis and continuity of care may matter as much as raw procedure counts.