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A Descriptive Analysis of Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program Directors in the United States
Alexa J Hughes1, Thomas D Samson2, Cathy R Henry2
1From the Penn State College of Medicine.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|June 15, 2022
Summary
Male plastic surgery program directors (PDs) are older and have higher research output than female PDs. This study analyzes PD demographics to inform diversity initiatives in surgical leadership.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Education
- Medical Leadership
Background:
- Limited research exists on the demographics of plastic surgery program directors (PDs).
- Understanding differences between male and female PDs is crucial for addressing leadership diversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the demographics of integrated plastic surgery PDs.
- To compare male and female PDs regarding academic and professional characteristics.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study analyzed publicly available data for all integrated plastic surgery residency programs.
- Demographic and academic data of PDs were collected and compared based on sex.
Main Results:
- 18.3% of PDs were female. Female PDs were more likely to be fellowship-trained (100% vs. 68%). Male PDs had higher publication counts and H-indexes.
- Male PDs were older (52.2 vs. 46.5 years) and served longer terms (4.98 vs. 2.87 years).
Conclusions:
- Male plastic surgery PDs exhibit higher research productivity and longer tenures, potentially linked to their older average age.
- The current percentage of female PDs mirrors that of active female plastic surgeons, suggesting potential for future growth in leadership roles.
- Understanding these demographics is key to developing strategies for increasing minority representation in academic surgical leadership.
