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Fellowships Guidelines
KOMISS Fellowship Program Guidelines
KOMISS Endoscopic Fellowship Program
The Korean Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Society (KOMISS) has been at the forefront of training spine surgeons for over two decades, delivering excellence in minimally invasive spine surgery education. KOMISS is dedicated to advancing the field of spine surgery through innovative techniques, comprehensive training programs, and fostering a community of skilled professionals committed to improving patient care.

Dr. Chul-Woong Park, the 17th President of KOMISS, emphasizes the society's commitment to enhancing global leadership in minimally invasive spine surgery and integrating new perspectives through initiatives like the World Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic spine study group (WUBES).

The KOMISS Endoscopic Fellowship Program serves as an intermediary, providing KOMISS members with opportunities to directly visit and observe endoscopic surgeries. Through short-term visitations and long-term fellowships, members can enhance their surgical skills and contribute to academic research.
Program Role and Benefits
The primary role of the KOMISS Endoscopic Fellowship Program is to facilitate close-knit training and observation of advanced endoscopic surgical techniques. By acting as a bridge between members and leading spine surgery centers, KOMISS ensures that participants gain practical experience and engage in meaningful academic research.

Participants will have the opportunity to:
  • Observe endoscopic surgical procedures first-hand.
  • Engage in short-term visitations or long-term fellowships tailored to their interests and needs.
  • Conduct academic research and contribute to the advancement of minimally invasive spine surgery.
Fellowship Host Centers
The program includes a network of esteemed fellowship host centers across South Korea. These centers provide an optimal environment for learning and research, allowing fellows to benefit from the insights and expertise of experienced KOMISS faculty surgeons. The fellowship host centers are located in various cities, offering a diverse range of clinical experiences and academic opportunities.
Application and Accreditation
Applications for the KOMISS International Fellowship Program can be submitted through the provided contact information. While this program is not accredited for CME, it includes comprehensive online material, classroom instruction, and hands-on training in the Neurosurgical Innovations and Training Center.

For inquiries and application submissions, please contact: youreej@naver.com.

Join the KOMISS Endoscopic Fellowship Program to advance your skills in spine surgery, engage in academic research, and become a part of an elite group of specialists dedicated to excellence in minimally invasive spinal techniques.
Chapter 1: General Provisions
Article 1 (Purpose)
These regulations aim to establish guidelines for the effective operation and management of the KOMISS Fellowship Program.
Article 2 (Definition)
The "KOMISS Fellowship Program" educates and trains medical professionals in endoscopic spine surgery.
Chapter 2: Program Operation
Article 3 (Selection of Operating Institutions)
  • KOMISS prioritizes selecting hospitals actively receiving foreign visitors.
  • Selected institutions sign a formal contract with KOMISS to operate the program.
Article 4 (Recruitment and Selection of Participants)
  • Participants can apply through the KOMISS website.
  • Selection criteria consider experience, education, and other qualifications in endoscopic spine surgery.
Article 5 (Education and Training)
  • Training periods are divided into short-term (less than 3 months) and long-term (more than 3 months).
  • All participants receive practical education through observation and participation in surgeries at designated training centers.
Chapter 3: Finance and Management
Article 6 (Participation Fee)
  • Training centers may set recommended participation fees; KOMISS charges separate administrative fees.
Article 7 (Program Support)
  • KOMISS may provide financial or other resources to support program operation.
Article 8 (Program Evaluation and Certification)
  • Participants are evaluated at the end of the program, and those who successfully complete the program receive a certificate from KOMISS.
Chapter 4: Supervision and Improvement
Article 9 (Supervision)
  • KOMISS regularly reviews and evaluates the operation of all training centers.
Article 10 (Improvement Measures)
  • Improvement measures are implemented as needed to enhance the effectiveness and quality of the program.
Chapter 5: Support and Role of KOMISS
Article 11 (Support from KOMISS)
  • KOMISS provides necessary administrative support for the fellowship program's operation.
  • KOMISS collects regular feedback to improve the education process.
Article 12 (Role of KOMISS)
  • KOMISS oversees the overall operation and management of the program, coordinating between training centers and participants.
  • Issues official certificates upon completion of the fellowship.
  • Evaluates the performance of participating institutions and individuals, conducts certifications, and recertifications.
  • Promotes the fellowship program and recruits outstanding participants through academic conferences and workshops.
Chapter 6: Fellowship Operating Committee
Article 13 (Composition of the Operating Committee)
  • The committee consists of one chairman, one vice-chairman, and at least five members.
  • The chairman is appointed by the president of the society; members are appointed by the chairman in consultation with the president.
  • The term of office for members is two years and can be renewed.
  • The committee holds regular meetings quarterly and can convene special meetings as necessary.
Article 14 (Roles and Responsibilities of the Operating Committee)
  • Establish policies and operational plans for the Fellowship Program.
  • Review and certify the qualifications of operating institutions.
  • Establish selection and evaluation criteria for fellows.
  • Develop and improve the educational program.
  • Manage budgets and devise financial support measures.
  • Address other matters for the smooth operation of the Fellowship Program.
Chapter 7: Qualifications of Fellowship Operating Institutions
Hospital
  • Must have at least one operating room equipped with endoscopic spine surgery and C-arm equipment.
  • Must have CT or MRI equipment for post-treatment follow-up.
  • Must perform an average of 50 or more major endoscopic spine surgeries annually.
  • Must have at least two full members of KOMISS.
  • Must regularly conduct continuing education and equipment maintenance
Individual
  • Must be a full member of the society with extensive knowledge and experience in endoscopic spine surgery.
  • Must have performed major endoscopic spine surgeries in the last five years.
  • Must have published SCI-grade papers or papers in major academic journals recognized by the society.
  • Must participate in regular continuing education.
Chapter 8: Selection and Education Process of Fellows
Article 16 (Selection and Education Process of Fellows)
  • Fellows are selected through public recruitment by the society, and applicants apply through the society's website.
  • The applications are reviewed by each institution, and the approval status and visit schedule are individually adjusted.
  • Selected fellows receive education at KOMISS-certified institutions in short-term (<3 months) or long-term (more than 3 months) courses.
  • The education process includes theoretical education and practice, and certificates are issued upon completion of each course after evaluation.
  • Education fees are generally charged, following the hospital's policy, with a recommendation of 100 USD per day (500 USD per week, 500,000 KRW) for short-term courses, and each fellow must pay a management fee of 100,000 KRW to the society.
Article 17 (Obligations of Operating Institutions)
  • Conduct the fellows' education program diligently and provide necessary educational materials and opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the society to resolve issues that arise during the education process.
  • Submit evaluation results of fellows to the society after the completion of the education process.
  • Regularly conduct continuing education and equipment maintenance to maintain a high-quality education environment.
Chapter 9: Implementation and Amendment
Article 18 (Implementation and Amendment)
These regulations are effective from the date of approval by the Society's Executive Board and can be amended by a resolution of the Operating Committee and approval of the Executive Board as necessary.
KOMISS Endoscopic Surgery Fellowship Learning Objectives
Uniportal Procedures
  • Lumbar Transforaminal Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain anatomical landmarks and relationships.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interlaminar Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Cervical Foraminotomy
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain anatomical landmarks and relationships.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Thoracic Transforaminal Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Thoracic Interlaminar Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interbody Fusion
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
Biportal Procedures
  • Lumbar Interlaminar Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Lumbar Foraminal Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Thoracic Interlaminar Decompression
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Cervical Foraminotomy
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interbody Fusion
    • Describe key anatomical structures.
    • Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • Discuss the endpoint of surgery.
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"KOMISS Fellowship Program"은 국내외 의료인을 대상으로 척추내시경수술 분야의 전문 지식과 기술을 교육하고 연수하는 프로그램을 의미한다.
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  • 선발 기준은 척추내시경수술 분야의 경험, 학력, 그리고 기타 전문적 자격을 고려하여 결정된다.
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  • 모든 참가자는 지정된 트레이닝 센터에서 실질적인 수술 참관 및 참여를 통해 교육을 받는다.
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  • KOMISS는 프로그램의 질 향상을 위해 정기적인 피드백을 수집하고, 이를 반영하여 교육 과정을 개선한다.
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  • 펠로우십 종료후 KOMISS의 공식 수료증을 발급한다.
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  • KOMISS는 국내외 학술대회 및 워크숍을 통해 펠로우쉽 프로그램을 홍보하고, 우수한 참가자를 유치한다.
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  • 위원장은 학회 회장이 임명하며, 위원은 위원장이 회장과 협의하여 임명한다.
  • 위원의 임기는 2년으로 하며, 연임할 수 있다.
  • 운영위원회는 매 분기마다 정기회의를 개최하며, 필요시 임시회의를 소집할 수 있다.
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  • Fellowship Program의 정책 및 운영 계획 수립.
  • 운영기관의 자격 심사 및 인증.
  • 펠로우 선발 및 평가 기준 수립.
  • 교육 프로그램 개발 및 개선.
  • 예산 관리 및 재정 지원 방안 마련.
  • 기타 Fellowship Program의 원활한 운영을 위한 제반 사항.
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  • 병원
    • 척추내시경수술실 및 C-arm 장비를 갖춘 최소 1개의 수술실 보유.
    • 진단과 치료 후 추적검사를 위한 CT 또는 MRI 장비 보유.
    • 연간 평균 50회 이상의 주요 척추내시경수술 실적 보유.
    • KOMISS 정회원 최소 2명 이상 보유.
    • 정기적인 보수교육 및 장비 유지 보수 시행.
  • 개인
    • 학회 정회원으로서 척추내시경수술 분야에서 많은 지식과 경험을 갖춘 전문의.
    • 최근 5년간 주요 척추내시경수술 실적이 있는 자.
    • 학회에서 인정한 SCI급 논문 또는 주요 학술지 논문 발표 실적이 있는 자.
    • 정기적인 보수교육에 참여하고 있는 자.
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  • 접수된 지원서를 각 기관에서 검토 후 허가여부와 방문일정을 개별적으로 조정한다.
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  • 교육 과정 중 발생하는 문제에 대해 학회와 협력하여 해결한다.
  • 교육 종료 후 펠로우의 평가 결과를 학회에 제출한다.
  • 정기적인 보수교육 및 장비 유지 보수를 실시하여 양질의 교육 환경을 유지한다.
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본 규정은 학회 상임이사회의 승인을 받은 날로부터 시행되며, 필요에 따라 운영위원회의 의결과 상임이사회의 승인을 통해 개정할 수 있다.
KOMISS Endoscopic Surgery Fellowship Learning Objectives
Uniportal Procedures
  • Lumbar Transforaminal Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for lumbar transforaminal decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Anatomy and Relationships: Explain the anatomical landmarks and relationships between the nerve root, pedicle, and disc space.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interlaminar Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for lumbar interlaminar decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Cervical Foraminotomy
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for cervical foraminotomy.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Anatomy and Relationships: Explain the anatomical landmarks and relationships between the nerve root, pedicle, and disc space.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Thoracic Transforaminal Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for thoracic transforaminal decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Thoracic Interlaminar Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for thoracic interlaminar decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interbody Fusion
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for lumbar interbody fusion.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe step-by-step surgical procedure.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips and tricks to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
Biportal Procedures
  • Lumbar Interlaminar Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for biportal lumbar interlaminar decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Lumbar Foraminal Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for biportal lumbar foraminal decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Thoracic Interlaminar Decompression
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for biportal thoracic interlaminar decompression.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Cervical Foraminotomy
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for biportal cervical foraminotomy.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.
  • Lumbar Interbody Fusion
    • Key Anatomical Structures: Describe key anatomical structures for biportal lumbar interbody fusion.
    • Step-by-Step Procedure: Describe surgical procedures step-by-step.
    • Surgical Tips and Tricks: Explain surgical tips to avoid complications.
    • End Point of Surgery: Discuss the end point of surgery.