NYU Grossman School of Medicine Program

The Thoracic Surgery residency at NYU Grossman School of Medicine is structured to provide extensive training in cardiothoracic surgery through three distinct pathways: the traditional 5+3 pathway, the integrated I-6 pathway, and the combined 4/3 pathway. This multi-faceted approach ensures that residents gain comprehensive expertise in both surgical techniques and patient management across a variety of conditions.

The curriculum for the Thoracic Surgery residency emphasizes a blend of rigorous clinical training, research opportunities, and didactic learning. Each pathway is designed to meet the training requirements set forth by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for board certification.

Training Pathways

The traditional 5+3 pathway requires completion of a standard 5-year ACGME-approved general surgery program, followed by 3 years focused on cardiothoracic surgery. This pathway allows for flexible training specific to cardiac or general thoracic surgery during the final 18 months of residency. Applications for this pathway are typically due in mid-February.

The integrated I-6 pathway combines general surgery and cardiothoracic surgery training within a six-year framework. Applicants must be in their final year of medical school and have completed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. This path maximizes operative experience by integrating rotations across various specialties, allowing residents to develop a well-rounded clinical acumen and proficiency in cardiac and thoracic procedures from early training.

Lastly, the combined 4/3 pathway caters to general surgery residents at NYU Langone, permitting them to complete four years of general surgery followed by three years of thoracic surgery. This expedited route is available to those in good academic standing with early application options.

Clinical Rotations and Skills Development

The residency program includes progressive clinical rotations across several prestigious training sites such as Kimmel Pavilion, Tisch Hospital, and NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, as well as the Manhattan campus of the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System. Residents benefit from diverse patient populations and socioeconomic conditions which enhance their learning experience.1

Residents gain exposure to advanced surgical procedures under the supervision of experienced faculty, participating in both didactic education and simulation training. The simulations are designed to elevate skills in essential cardiothoracic techniques, helping residents achieve proficiency necessary for future practice. All training locations offer hands-on experience and opportunities for feedback from a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurse practitioners.2

Research and Scholarly Activities

The program places significant emphasis on research and encourages residents to engage in various cardiothoracic research projects. It is strongly recommended that each resident publishes at least one article in a medical journal annually. The program provides funding for resident travel to national and regional conferences, fostering an environment where inquiry and scholarly work are paramount.3

Visa Support

NYU Grossman School of Medicine offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs). The program is open to sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas, providing opportunities for qualified foreign physicians to train in the U.S. This aspect enhances its welcoming environment for DOs and IMGs, making the residency program more accessible to a diverse pool of applicants.4

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The application process for the Thoracic Surgery residency requires submission through the ERAS system along with USMLE scores, medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and, for international applicants, an ECFMG certificate. While the program is highly competitive, it actively seeks diverse backgrounds, including candidates from DO and IMG classifications. It is essential to note that there may be specific criteria for applicants such as the maximum number of failed attempts on STEP exams and considerations for year of graduation.5

Housing and Benefits

Limited subsidized housing is available for residents, with additional benefits including a competitive salary for each year of residency. Comprehensive information regarding benefits can be accessed through the Graduate Medical Education administration at NYU Langone.