Recent Trends in Cardiothoracic Surgery Training: Data from the National Resident Matching Program

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Background:

• Integrated thoracic residency programs (IPs) were established in 2008 to address a decline in cardiothoracic (CT) trainees.
• Limited data exists on CT training pathway trends post-IP inception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine trends in cardiothoracic surgery training following the introduction of integrated programs.
• To analyze the impact of integrated programs on the National Resident Match Program (NRMP) for CT surgery.

Main Methods:

• Utilized NRMP main and specialty match data from 2008 to 2018.
• Analyzed program size, applications, and filled/unfilled positions for integrated and traditional CT residency programs.
• Employed descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient to assess program variables.

Main Results:

• Integrated programs grew from 2 to 28, increasing positions from 3 to 36 between 2008 and 2018.
• Traditional CT residency positions decreased by 29% during the same period.
• The proportion of filled CT residency positions significantly increased from 67.7% to 97.7%.

Conclusions:

• Integrated thoracic residency programs have successfully increased the number of trainees entering CT training.
• Consideration should be given to expanding IP positions or fostering interest in CT among general surgery residents.
• These strategies aim to bolster the future cardiothoracic surgery workforce.