Thoracic Surgery

Does research experience need to be in the specialty itself?

It helps. If you are applying for integrated thoracic programs, definitely. If you want to do a traditional path through general surgery and then a CT fellowship, focus on surgery for now.

What M3/M4 electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?

• M3 Electives – Try to rotate with the thoracic group.
• M4 Electives – Spend some time on cardiac surgery.

Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?

If you are applying for an integrated thoracic residency, then yes, they are very competitive. Traditional pathway, then no need to do away rotations with cardiothoracic groups.

If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many away rotations do you recommend?

One – two.

If away rotations are necessary, when should they be completed?

Early in 4th year.

Which month/s are interviews most concentrated?

Standard match timeline for integrated residency – Oct/Nov/Dec, Fellowship is spring match, with interviews in Feb/March.

Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?

They should at least be all surgical letters, with some from CT surgeons.

If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?

N/A

Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?

You should have at least one from someone with a high rank or that is well known.

How competitive are the residency programs in this specialty?

Integrated thoracic residencies are extremely competitive, fellowships have recently become very competitive as well.

How important are each of the following for admission to a competitive program in your specialty?