Resident Perceptions of 2-Year Versus 3-Year Cardiothoracic Training Programs

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Background:

• Resident perceptions of 2-year (2Y) vs. 3-year (3Y) cardiothoracic surgery programs are not well-characterized.
• Understanding these perceptions is crucial for optimizing surgical residency training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the perceptions of residents graduating from 2Y vs. 3Y cardiothoracic surgery programs.
• Utilize data from the Thoracic Surgery Residents Association and Thoracic Surgery Directors Association In-Training Examination survey.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 167 survey responses from graduating cardiothoracic residents (2013-2014).
• Comparison of perceptions between residents from 2Y (n=96) and 3Y (n=71) programs.
• Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in perceived preparedness for American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) examinations or debt levels.
• No difference in intended practice type (academic vs. private).
• Graduating 3Y residents reported feeling better prepared for case requirements, more adequately trained, and had higher ABTS written examination pass rates.

Conclusions:

• While overall perceptions of board preparedness and debt are similar, 3Y programs appear to better prepare residents for independent practice and board certification.
• Respondents from 2Y programs reported greater difficulty meeting case requirements.
• 3Y residents were less likely to pursue further training beyond residency.