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Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at Yale School of Medicine, offers two distinct pathways tailored to meet the diverse career aspirations of our residents: the Integrated Six-year (I-6) Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program and the Traditional Two-year Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program.

Our Integrated Six-year (I-6) Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program is designed for medical school graduates seeking comprehensive training to become ABTS board-certified cardiothoracic surgeons. This six-year program seamlessly integrates early exposure to cardiothoracic surgery with the Yale General Surgery program for the first three years, followed by three years of dedicated cardiothoracic surgery training. With flexible pathways emphasizing cardiothoracic, general thoracic, or cardiac surgery, residents are equipped with the clinical, technical, academic, and leadership skills necessary for success in their chosen field.

In contrast, our Traditional Two-year Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program is tailored for graduates of general surgery or vascular surgery residencies looking to further specialize in cardiothoracic surgery. This condensed yet comprehensive program offers pathways focusing on either general thoracic or cardiac surgery. Residents benefit from exposure to a broad spectrum of open and minimally-invasive techniques, including endovascular, robotic, and thoracoscopic approaches.

Both programs provide extensive clinical rotations, robust didactic sessions, simulation training, and research opportunities, ensuring that our residents receive unparalleled training and mentorship from our renowned faculty members. Whether you choose the Integrated Six-year or Traditional Two-year pathway, the Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at Yale School of Medicine is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders in academic cardiothoracic surgery.