Mass General Brigham/Massachusetts General Hospital Program
Location:
Boston, MASpecialty:
Thoracic surgery - independentACGME Code:
4602411040The Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is designed to equip residents with the skills required for independent practice in cardiothoracic surgery upon completion of the program. The program includes dedicated tracks for both cardiac and thoracic surgery, allowing fellows to specialize and gain contemporary training in each subspecialty. The training curriculum is comprehensive, reflecting MGH's long-standing tradition of excellence in cardiothoracic surgery.
Among notable highlights, the training program boasts a history of illustrious graduates, including 11 former residents who served as presidents of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and seven who led the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Notably, the program has also produced graduates who have attained significant roles in healthcare governance, including a United States Senate majority leader.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to provide thorough educational and clinical experiences. Each resident follows a tailored path, depending on whether they choose the cardiac or thoracic track. Both pathways involve extensive exposure to the alternate specialty, ensuring comprehensive training.
Residents on the cardiac track complete six months of thoracic surgery, alongside specialized training in cardiac surgical practices, including complex valve surgery and adult congenital heart disease. The thoracic track residents spend substantial time in cardiac surgery, focusing on multifaceted thoracic procedures and robotics.
Rotations and Clinical Experience
The residency encompasses a diverse range of clinical experiences. The resident exposure to cardiac surgery includes various complex surgeries, such as aortic surgeries, valve repairs, and treatments for adult congenital heart disease. The thoracic surgery training encompasses procedures such as complex esophageal surgeries and advanced robotic-assisted operations.
MGH facilitates a rich training environment through access to various clinical settings, enabling residents to participate actively in multidisciplinary thoracic and cardiac patient care, and to engage with a robust network of healthcare professionals.
Research Opportunities
Both cardiac and thoracic surgery faculty are heavily involved in research, providing opportunities for residents to contribute to significant clinical and basic science investigations. Active research interests span transplantation immunology, lung cancer trials, and outcomes research related to cardiothoracic surgery. Residents are encouraged to present research findings at national conferences, helping to foster a spirit of inquiry and innovation.
Application Process
The program is competitive and requires applicants to have successfully completed a five-year ACGME-accredited general surgery residency in the U.S. or Canada. Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service, and interviews will be conducted for those who advance in the selection process.
Visa and International Applicants
The program supports visa applications for international medical graduates who are accepted into the residency. It is essential that applicants verify specific visa sponsorship opportunities available through the program, including J-1 and H-1B visas.
Competitiveness
Mass General is recognized as a highly competitive residency program, appealing to U.S. graduates and international medical graduates alike. It actively welcomes diverse applicants, fostering an inclusive environment for residents from various backgrounds and educational experiences.
Special Application Requirements
While specific requirements may vary, applicants should be prepared for rigorous evaluation, including the consideration of STEP scores and previous clinical experiences in surgery. The program values candidates with strong academic backgrounds and a demonstrated commitment to the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
Overall, the Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at Massachusetts General Hospital offers comprehensive training through a structured curriculum, diverse clinical rotations, and a focus on research, equipping residents with the skills needed to excel in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
Website
Director
Christopher R Morse, MD, MAProgram Director, Assistant Professor of Surgery Appointed Since July 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$99,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Boston, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Boston, MA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Boston has a relatively higher crime rate compared to some other cities in the U.S., especially in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Boston is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Residents can enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and various festivals throughout the year.
- Climate: Boston experiences all four seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Be prepared for snowfall in the winter and humidity in the summer.
- Races and Population: Boston is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures among its population. Residents can experience a lively multicultural atmosphere.
- Education: Boston is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Harvard University and MIT. Residents have access to top-notch educational opportunities.
- Cost of Living: Boston is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare. It's advisable to budget carefully to manage expenses.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Boston is located approximately 4 hours drive from New York City. New York City offers a different urban experience with its own cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Rich history, cultural diversity, top educational institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: High cost of living, higher crime rate in certain areas.
Interview Questions
