Subspecialties of cardiac surgery can include minimally invasive and robotic cardiac surgery, structural heart disease, aortic and endovascular surgery, cardiothoracic transplantation and mechanical circulatory support, congenital cardiac surgery and critical care. [...] Years 1 and 2 are comprised of training in surgical foundations, and approximately 6-8 months are spent in cardiac surgery, 6 months in thoracic, vascular, general and trauma surgery, 6 months in cardiology and its subspecialties, and 4-6 months in critical care, cardiac anesthesia, emergency medicine and/or medical imaging. [...] Situations can change quickly in the OR, ICU and ward, and the ability to make quick and accurate decisions can make a major difference for your patients. [...] As a cardiac surgeon, thinking on your feet and acting decisively can be another important skill to have.” What are the most challenging aspects of your specialty? Residency can be challenging due to the variety of skill sets needed to be learned in a limited amount of time. [...] Can you describe the transition from junior to senior resident? The transition from junior resident to senior resident involves graduated responsibilities in the OR, increased decision making and responsibility regarding the management of the ward/ICU, a greater role in supervising junior learners, and increased contact and communication with attending surgeons.
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