Liver transplantation training and career interest among residents in related specialties: A national survey

Liver transplantation (LT) is a demanding and highly specialized procedure requiring coordination among different specialists. Ensuring that future professionals acquire the necessary expertise is essential, yet a career in LT is often perceived by residents as inaccessible or unattractive. In Spain, LT training is not systematically integrated into residency programs. This study aimed to explore the training experiences, motivations and perceptions of medical residents from LT-related specialties.

A working group from the Spanish Society of Liver Transplantation (SETH) designed an online survey assessing demographics, LT exposure and attitudes toward LT, including perceptions of workload, burnout and motivation to pursue a future career in LT. The survey was sent through national scientific societies to residents in general and digestive surgery, gastroenterology, internal medicine and anesthesiology.

A total of 280 residents completed the survey (60.3% women). Most respondents (62.1%) trained at hospitals with an LT program, as LT training is significantly more common at these hospitals than at hospitals without LT programs (86.8% vs 41.5%; P < .001). Only 14.6% considered it an accessible career path. Although 38.2% expressed interest in pursuing a career in LT, 86.9% viewed it as difficult to achieve. The main disincentives were poor work-life balance and frequent night shifts.

LT training among Spanish residents remains inconsistent and largely unstructured. Despite recognizing its prestige and educational value, residents perceive LT as demanding and inaccessible. Establishing standardized LT training and offering targeted incentives may help attract future specialists to this critical field.