Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery in France: Current Status and Workforce Projections to 2040

Cardiothoracic surgery (CTS) remains one of the most technically demanding and male-dominated surgical specialties worldwide. In France, women now represent over 60% of medical students. Despite this growing representation at the undergraduate level, gender disparities persist, particularly in advanced academic and clinical leadership positions. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current status, trends, and future projection of women in CTS in France.

Data were obtained from the national registry of the French Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, encompassing all practicing surgeons and residents as of 2024. A pipeline analysis covering the 2017-2024 cohorts was performed, including entry, attrition, re-entry, and current status. Future projections to 2040 used recruitment rates, retirement age, and stable specialty attrition assumptions.

Of 1006 CTS surgeons in France in 2025, 13.72% (n = 138) were practicing women; including trainees, total female representation was 24.55% (n = 247). Female representation increased significantly among younger age groups and new recruits, reaching 55% in the 2022 residency cohort. However, only 8.75% of academic posts were held by women. Pipeline analysis from 2017 to 2024 showed steady recruitment, decreasing attrition, and strong retention in recent years. Future projections indicate continued growth in the female CTS workforce, from 147 in 2025 to over 240 by 2040, despite expected retirements.

Despite progress in recruiting women into CTS in France, significant disparities persist in academic and clinical leadership positions. Continued efforts through policy reform, mentorship, and institutional support are crucial to ensure lasting gender equity and strengthen the specialty's future.