Cardiothoracic surgeons provide care for patients with diseases within the chest. Commonly treated conditions include coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, heart failure, aortic aneurysms, cancers of the lung/esophagus/mediastinum and congenital heart anomalies.

You may be interested in cardiothoracic surgery if you:

• want an intellectually challenging career with a focus in cardiopulmonary physiology, oncology and critical care.

• are results-oriented.

• enjoy working with your hands.

• are interested in an evolving field with new technology.

• possess leadership qualities and enjoy working as a team.

Highly recommended electives:

• One to two months of adult cardiac surgery at IU Health Methodist Hospital

• One month of adult thoracic surgery at IU Health University Hospital

• One month of congenital cardiothoracic surgery at Riley Hospital for Children

Suggested electives:

• Critical care

• Cardiology

• Pulmonology

• Vascular surgery

• General surgery

Students may be interested in completing away rotations, although this is not required. Students may wish to complete an away rotation if they are interested in training in a particular region of the country, training at a top-tier program or obtaining more in-depth knowledge about the culture of a particular program.

Research experience, either in basic science or clinical/translational, is highly recommended. Publications, abstracts and podium presentations at professional society meetings are impactful ways to differentiate oneself and demonstrate commitment to scholarly activity.

There are three primary pathways:

• Traditional — Five years of general surgery plus two to three years of cardiothoracic surgery (one spot is offered each year at IU)

• Integrated — Six years of cardiothoracic surgery (one spot is offered each year at IU)

• Fast-Track — four years of general surgery plus three years of cardiothoracic surgery, all at one institution (not available at IU)