Pain Therapy
The Multidisciplinary Pain Center at ZOL, recognized by the World Institute of Pain as a 'Center of Excellence in Pain Practice' since 2011, offers a one-year fellowship in Algology for certified anesthesiologists. This program provides specialized training in the comprehensive diagnosis and management of acute, chronic, and palliative pain conditions.
The fellowship emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medication management, biopsychosocial models, and interventional pain treatments. Fellows benefit from daily multidisciplinary consultations, team-based discussions of patient cases, and monthly Spine Unit meetings, fostering a collaborative environment for optimal patient care.
Under the direct supervision of Prof. Dr. Jan Van Zundert, participants follow a structured training plan, progressively increasing their autonomy in patient care. The program includes theoretical instruction, hands-on procedural training, and regular assessments tailored to each fellow’s learning curve. Upon completion, fellows are prepared to sit for the international 'Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice' (FIPP) exam.
In addition to the full fellowship, anesthesia residents have the opportunity to rotate through the Pain Center for one or more months as part of their broader anesthesiology training. This rotation allows them to gain valuable exposure to pain management practices and deepen their understanding of multidisciplinary pain care.
Beyond clinical training, fellows engage in scientific research, critical literature reviews, and are supported in presenting research at international conferences, including the VAVP LOK meeting. This program ensures a comprehensive education in pain therapy, with a strong emphasis on both practical skills and academic development.
