The Future of the Academic Cardiothoracic Surgeon: Results of the TSRA/TSDA In-Training Examination Survey

Abstract

Traditionally cardiothoracic residents spent dedicated research time during general surgery equipping them for a potential academic career. Recent changes in training paradigms, including integrated programs that may not include research time, could affectthe development of future academic cardiothoracic surgeons. Responses to the 2015 Thoracic Surgery Directors' Association/Thoracic Surgery Residents' Association survey accompanying the in-training examination taken by current cardiothoracic surgery residents were analyzed. Three hundred fifty-four residents were surveyed with a response rate of 100%, although one was excluded from the analysis because of inconsistencies in responses. Statistical analysis included χ(2), Fisher's exact test, and multinomial logistic regression with significance set at a probability value of 0.05. Two hundred sixty-seven of 353 residents (76%) intended on performing research as part of their careers. Integrated residents as opposed to traditional residents (85% versus 69%; p= 0.003), males (78% versus 65%; p= 0.02), those pursuing additional training (85% versus 69%; p= 0.003), and those interested in academic careers (93% versus 33%; p < 0.001) were more likely to pursue research. Differences were also noted in specialty interest, with congenital and heart failure specialties most likely to pursue research careers (92% and 100%, respectively; p < 0.05). Residents intending on research careers were more likely to have had previous research experience, and the most common type of intended research was clinical outcomes (78%). On multinomial logistic regression, previous clinical outcomes research and academic practice were identified as predictors of a research career (odd ratios of 9.7 and 4.1, respectively; each p < 0.05). The majority of residents plan on pursuing research during their careers. Previous research experience appears to be a key determinant as well as specialty interest.