University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine Program

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Program at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine offers a comprehensive integrated 6-year residency in cardiothoracic surgery. This program focuses on developing the necessary skills for future leaders in cardiac and thoracic surgery, with a balanced education emphasizing minimally-invasive surgical techniques. Residents undergo extensive training involving a variety of surgical disciplines during the early years of residency, leading to specialized training in cardiothoracic surgery.

Curriculum Overview

The program’s curriculum encompasses substantial exposure to various surgery rotations, including general surgery, surgical oncology, vascular surgery, and pediatric surgery in the first three years. This foundation ensures residents are well-prepared for advanced training in adult cardiac surgery and general thoracic surgery in the latter half of the program. The curriculum also includes dedicated rotations in echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, interventional pulmonary, and cardiothoracic critical care, which are crucial for comprehensive training in cardiothoracic anesthesiology.

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Clinical Rotations

Residents primarily experience adult cardiac surgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, focusing on vital procedures like coronary revascularization and managing valvular heart diseases. In addition to university training, residents rotate at The Christ Hospital, providing opportunities to engage in a high volume of community cardiac surgeries, including cutting-edge robotic procedures. The program also collaborates with Cincinnati Children's Hospital for congenital heart surgery training, where residents actively participate in various surgical care aspects, enhancing their surgical competencies.

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Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on clinical research, enabling residents to participate actively throughout their training. Residents have access to large databases supporting research on lung cancer outcomes and esophageal cancer databases, among others. The program encourages participation in multidisciplinary research groups, focusing on surgical outcomes and disparities in care. Residents attending national meetings for presenting their research help cultivate their academic profiles.

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Application Process

The application to the Cardiothoracic Surgery Program is rigorously selective, utilizing the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants are typically required to submit a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and medical school performance evaluations. It is crucial for applicants to have passed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 before joining the residency. The competition is generally intense, making it essential for applicants to excel in their academic and clinical performance.

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Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, providing support primarily for J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the entry of skilled trainees into the United States. This support is crucial for applicants looking to advance their medical education in the U.S. without the barrier of visa complexities.

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Wellness Program

Recognizing the demanding nature of surgical training, the program is committed to maintaining resident wellness. Initiatives include time off for healthcare appointments, training for burnout recognition, and various social and physical activities organized regularly to foster a supportive community among residents and faculty. Events like canoe trips, annual softball games, and monthly boot camps promote camaraderie and overall residency satisfaction.

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Life in Cincinnati

Cincinnati itself is celebrated for its livability, blending urban excitement with relaxing suburban attractions. The city provides a vibrant environment for residents and their families, enhancing the overall residency experience. Accessibility to local amenities and cultural activities contributes to both personal and professional well-being during training.

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