Allyne Topaz, MD

Undergrad: James Madison University

Medical School: St. George's University, School of Medicine

Residency: The Brooklyn Hospital Center

Why did you choose SIU Hand Fellowship?

SIU offered the unique opportunity to study complex hand pathology in a reconstructive and trauma rich setting. Their dedication to mentorship and education allows the fellow to tailor their interests. The hand fellowship program ensures a solid foundation in microsurgery as well as complex reconstruction, while offering ample opportunities for clinical and basic research.

Would you choose it again? And why?

There might not be enough space to write all the reasons I would choose SIU again! The volume and reconstructive strengths of the program are unparalleled. The fellow is allowed to attend any cases of interest to them, and runs their own dedicated weekly fellow clinic, including operating and following those patients directly. The basic science rat microsurgery lab allows the flexibility to practice microsurgery; rewarded in kind by a high volume of weekly free flap cases or replants. Their commitment to teaching is remarkable; substantiated by daily faculty driven didactics, intraoperative teaching, and a dedicated weekly hand conference including current literature review. There are endless opportunities, and active support regarding research- whether clinical or basic science. Learning under leaders in the hand and plastics community, SIU truly embodies academic fellowship, unparalleled camaraderie and solidification of hand and microsurgery training in a warm and supportive environment.