Thoracic surgery - An underestimated dream job?

Background

Thoracic surgery is an expanding surgical specialty, but a shortage of qualified and motivated thoracic surgery residents is expected. It is estimated that around 23 % of all surgical specialist jobs will be vacant by 2030. We therefore need to assess the current clinical situation and urgently improve the recruitment and training of our next generation of surgeons.

Methods

Using the online survey (Lime Survey), a questionnaire (28 questions) was created to analyze the current nationwide situation of residency in thoracic surgery. The survey was sent to all postgraduate trainees in thoracic surgery departments in Germany. The current status on residency-programs, scientific interest, the attractiveness of thoracic surgery, and the demographics of the participants were evaluated. The survey also evaluated specific ways to increase attractiveness.

The survey was conducted in collaboration with “Frauen in der Thoraxchirurgie” by the “Junges Forum der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Thoraxchirurgie”. The survey was sent to all residents and young specialists in Germany. A total of 187 participants responded.

Results

Out of 187 participants, 123 questionnaires (65.8 %) were completed. Mean age was 36.3 ± 6.9 years. 62.6 % of the participants were male. About 70 % work in an independent thoracic surgery department, while the rest is affiliated with another specialty department. 50 % have completed a doctorate in medicine.

Conclusion

The development of an objective and structured training plan could define the roles and responsibilities of the senior surgeon and the trainee, leading to improved training and, at the very least, ensuring good recruitment of junior thoracic surgeons.