Feasibility of an international multicentric HPB fellowship training program in Latin America

Jose D de Meira Junior ¹, Gabriela Del Angel-Millán ², Gabriela Ochoa ³

⁰Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.

Hpb : the Official Journal of the International Hepato Pancreato Biliary Association +

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September 11, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

The first multinational Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) fellowship in Latin America (LA) successfully trained surgeons despite challenges. This collaborative program enhanced HPB surgical education and regional cooperation in resource-limited settings.

Area Of Science

HPB Surgery Training
Surgical Education in Latin America
Multinational Medical Fellowships

Background

Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery demands specialized, high-volume training centers.
Limited HPB training programs in Latin America (LA) force surgeons abroad, facing barriers.
A novel multinational, multicenter HPB fellowship was established in LA, accredited by the Fellowship Council and Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (AHPBA).

Purpose Of The Study

To describe the development and implementation of the first accredited multinational HPB fellowship in LA.
To assess the feasibility and outcomes of a collaborative, rotational training model in a resource-limited region.
To address the educational gap in HPB surgery within Latin America.

Main Methods

A two-year fellowship program with three 8-month rotations across Brazil, Chile, and Mexico.
Fellows gained exposure to diverse surgical environments, including minimally invasive techniques, liver transplantation, and biliary reconstruction.
Outcomes evaluated via case logs, exit interviews, faculty reports, and assessments of academic/research participation and adaptability.

Main Results

All fellows met or exceeded surgical volume requirements.
Fellows actively participated in academic activities, simulation training, and research.
Institutional support and peer collaboration mitigated challenges like migration, certification, and language barriers.

Conclusions

The Latin America HPB Fellowship demonstrates the success of a multinational, multicenter rotational model for accredited HPB training.
This model provides high-quality education in resource-limited settings, promoting surgeon development.
The program fosters significant professional growth and enhances regional collaboration in HPB surgery.