Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon
It takes a lot of determination and hard work to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. Cardiothoracic surgeons treat diseases of the heart and lungs, and they often perform delicate, complex operations that can take hours to complete. To become a cardiothoracic surgeon, you must obtain a medical degree, complete specialized training and become licensed in the United States. This article will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Introduction to Becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Cardiothoracic surgeons treat diseases of the heart, lungs and other organs in the chest. They often perform delicate, complex operations that can take hours to complete. Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon requires a great deal of dedication and hard work. It is a long, demanding process that requires a medical degree, specialized training and licensure.
What Does a Cardiothoracic Surgeon Do?
Cardiothoracic surgeons treat diseases of the heart, lungs and other organs in the chest. They often perform delicate, complex operations that can take hours to complete. Cardiothoracic surgeons diagnose and treat diseases of the heart and lungs, including coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, lung cancer and emphysema. They also perform organ transplants, repair congenital heart defects and diagnose and treat thoracic aortic aneurysms.
What Education Is Required to Become a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?
To become a cardiothoracic surgeon, you must obtain a medical degree from an accredited medical school. After completing medical school, you must complete a residency in general surgery. After completing your residency, you must complete an additional two to three years of specialized training in cardiothoracic surgery, also known as a fellowship.
How Do I Become Licensed to Practice Cardiothoracic Surgery?
After completing your medical degree and residency, you must take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to become licensed in the United States. The USMLE is a computer-based examination that tests your knowledge of the medical field. After passing the USMLE, you must obtain a medical license in the state in which you plan to practice.
What Skills Are Necessary to Become a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?
Cardiothoracic surgeons must possess excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity and communication skills. They must also be able to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure. Cardiothoracic surgeons must also have a strong understanding of the anatomy of the heart and lungs.
What Are the Job Prospects for Cardiothoracic Surgeons?
The job outlook for cardiothoracic surgeons is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for cardiothoracic surgeons in the United States is $370,000. There is expected to be a 10 percent increase in job opportunities for cardiothoracic surgeons from 2018-2028.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Q1. What does a cardiothoracic surgeon do?
A1. Cardiothoracic surgeons treat diseases of the heart, lungs and other organs in the chest. They often perform delicate, complex operations that can take hours to complete. Cardiothoracic surgeons diagnose and treat diseases of the heart and lungs, including coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, lung cancer and emphysema. They also perform organ transplants, repair congenital heart defects and diagnose and treat thoracic aortic aneurysms.
Q2. What education is required to become a cardiothoracic surgeon?
A2. To become a cardiothoracic surgeon, you must obtain a medical degree from an accredited medical school. After completing medical school, you must complete a residency in general surgery. After completing your residency, you must complete an additional two to three years of specialized training in cardiothoracic surgery, also known as a fellowship.
Q3. How do I become licensed to practice cardiothoracic surgery?
A3. After completing your medical degree and residency, you must take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to become licensed in the United States. The USMLE is a computer-based examination that tests your knowledge of the medical field. After passing the USMLE, you must obtain a medical license in the state in which you plan to practice.
Q4. What skills are necessary to become a cardiothoracic surgeon?
A4. Cardiothoracic surgeons must possess excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity and communication skills. They must also be able to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure. Cardiothoracic surgeons must also have a strong understanding of the anatomy of the heart and lungs.
Q5. What are the job prospects for cardiothoracic surgeons?
A5. The job outlook for cardiothoracic surgeons is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for cardiothoracic surgeons in the United States is $370,000. There is expected to be a 10 percent increase in job opportunities for cardiothoracic surgeons from 2018-2028.
Conclusion
Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is a long and challenging process. It requires a medical degree, specialized training and licensure, as well as excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity and communication skills. The job outlook for cardiothoracic surgeons is excellent, and the median annual salary for cardiothoracic surgeons in the United States is $370,000. If you are interested in becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon, it is important to understand the educational and licensing requirements, as well as the skills necessary to successfully practice cardiothoracic surgery.
