Predictors of Successful Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Match: A Texas Star Database Analysis

This study aims to determine factors predictive of successful matching into vascular surgery residency. This has been studied in other fields, but there is a paucity of data specific to vascular surgery. This information can be helpful in guiding medical students interested in applying for this competitive field.

The Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency database was used to analyze self-reported demographics, match results, and application variables from 2017 to 2025. Multiple characteristics of matched applicants were compared to unmatched applicants. Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square test, while continuous variables were assessed with nonparametric tests. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify predictors of successful matches.

A total of 170 applicants responded to the survey, 138 (81%) of whom matched. Those who matched had higher numbers of programs applied to (55 vs 46, p = 0.031), interviews offered (29 vs 20, p = 0.004), interviews attended (21 vs 13, p < 0.001), received an MD vs DO degree (82.5% vs 25%, p = 0.024), and had a vascular rotation at their home institution (85.0% vs 28.6%, p = 0.006). The number of interviews attended was the only significant predictor of matching (OR = 1.96, p = 0.021), with each additional interview attended increasing the odds of matching by 9%. The number of abstracts, posters, and presentations is independently associated with a higher number of interview offers (β = 0.86, p = 0.01), with each additional abstract, publication, or poster associated with an average increase of 0.86 interview invitations.

This study reinforces the idea that going on more interviews increases the chances of matching. Applicants with a higher number of abstracts, posters, or presentations received more interview invites. Geographic signaling, USMLE exam scores, clerkships with honors, and honorary membership in societies were not associated with a higher chance of matching.