How to Be Cardiovascular Surgeon - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 17, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Cardiovascular surgeons are medical professionals who specialize in performing complex surgeries on the human heart and its associated vessels. These surgeries are necessary to treat a variety of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, heart valve defects, and congenital heart defects. Cardiovascular surgeons must possess exceptional technical skills and strong decision-making abilities to successfully operate on patients.

In addition to the technical skills, cardiovascular surgeons must have a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology in order to properly diagnose and treat patients. The effects of cardiovascular surgery can be beneficial, as it can lead to improved heart function, reduced risk of stroke, and increased life expectancy. However, it is also associated with potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, and blood clots.

Therefore, cardiovascular doctors must consider both the potential benefits and risks before performing any kind of surgery.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a bachelor's degree. All aspiring cardiovascular surgeons must first earn a bachelor's degree. While the field of study is not particularly important, prospective students should strive to maintain a high GPA. Most medical schools require at least three years of undergraduate study before they will consider admitting a student.
Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT is a standardized exam used by medical schools to determine who will be admitted. It is important to prepare for this exam and obtain a high score in order to maximize the chances of being accepted into medical school.
Attend medical school. After gaining acceptance into medical school, aspiring cardiovascular surgeons can begin their medical training. During this time, students will take courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and other medical-related topics. They will also complete clinical rotations in various medical specialties to gain real-world experience.
Obtain licensing. To practice medicine, all doctors must be licensed. This is typically done through passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
Complete a residency. After graduating from medical school, prospective cardiovascular surgeons must complete a residency program in cardiothoracic surgery. This is typically a three to five year program that includes both clinical and surgical training.
Become board certified. After completing the residency program, it is important to become board certified. This is typically done by taking the American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification exam.
Obtain a position. Once certified, aspiring cardiovascular surgeons must obtain a position at a hospital or clinic where they can begin practicing medicine. This may involve applying for positions, interviewing with potential employers, and negotiating salary and benefits.

Cardiovascular surgeons must be reliable and competent to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients. To achieve this, surgeons must attend specialized training and education that provides them with the knowledge and skills necessary for performing complicated cardiac procedures. They must also stay up-to-date on the latest advances in their field, including any new technologies or techniques.

cardiovascular surgeons must be certified by a board of medical experts and obtain privileges from hospitals where they plan to perform procedures. Finally, to maintain a high level of competence, surgeons should participate in continuing education programs and review patient outcomes regularly to identify any areas of improvement. With all these measures in place, patients can feel confident that their cardiovascular surgeon is both reliable and competent.

You may want to check General Practitioner, Reproductive Endocrinologist/Infertility Specialist, and Proctologist for alternative.

Job Description

Perform diagnostic tests and procedures to assess heart and vascular system health.
Evaluate patients' medical histories and physical exams to determine the need for surgery or other treatments.
Perform open-heart and other invasive cardiovascular surgeries.
Repair or replace damaged or diseased heart valves, vessels, and other structures.
Monitor patient status during and after surgery to ensure proper healing.
Collaborate with other medical professionals to develop patient care plans.
Educate patients and families about cardiovascular procedures and risks.
Responsible for ordering, interpreting, and evaluating diagnostic tests to identify and assess patients' cardiovascular conditions.
Utilize advanced imaging technology, such as 3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) to evaluate the heart and vascular system.
Utilize minimally invasive techniques, such as catheter-based procedures, to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Operative surgical skills
Knowledge of anatomy, physiology and cardiovascular pathophysiology
Thorough understanding of disease processes and diagnoses
Ability to effectively assess and diagnose cardiovascular issues
Expertise in cardiac catheterization and angiography
Knowledge of cardiac imaging techniques
Advanced knowledge of cardiopulmonary bypass techniques
Ability to perform complex reconstructive surgeries
Knowledge of cardiac arrhythmia management
Expertise in minimally invasive techniques and robotics
Ability to effectively communicate with patients and families
Critical thinking skills
Problem-solving skills
Teamwork and collaboration skills
Leadership skills
Management and organizational skills
Computer literacy
Excellent bedside manner
Strong ethical judgment
Commitment to continuing medical education

Being a cardiovascular surgeon is a demanding job that requires a high level of skill and precision. To be successful in this role, one must possess an exceptional level of knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and medical science. Furthermore, they must be able to make quick, informed decisions and use the latest technological advancements in order to ensure successful outcomes.

They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Communication with the patient, family members, and other healthcare professionals is essential in order to ensure proper care and safety for the patient. cardiovascular surgeons must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and remain calm under pressure.

This skill set enables them to make critical decisions quickly and accurately in order to save lives.

Osteopathic Physician, Rehabilitation Medicine Physician, and Pain Management Physician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in Cardiovascular Surgery?
What experience do you have in the field of Cardiovascular Surgery?
What is your experience with minimally invasive Cardiovascular Surgery?
Describe a challenging medical case you have encountered in Cardiovascular Surgery.
How do you collaborate with other medical professionals on complicated cases?
What do you feel are the most important skills for a successful Cardiovascular Surgeon?
How do you stay up to date with the latest technological advances in the field of Cardiovascular Surgery?
How do you ensure a high standard of patient care when performing Cardiovascular Surgery?
What strategies do you use to help patients who are anxious about Cardiovascular Surgery?
How do you manage difficult conversations with patients and their families about Cardiovascular Surgery risks?

Common Tools in Industry

Endoscope. An instrument used to view and examine the internal organs of the body (eg: bronchoscope).
Surgical Stapler. A device for quickly and securely closing wounds or surgical incisions with staples (eg: Ethicon Endo-surgery).
Stethoscope. An instrument used to listen to the internal sounds of a person's body, such as the heart and lungs (eg: Littmann 3M).
Ultrasound Machine. A device used to create images of internal organs through sound waves (eg: GE Healthcare).
Cardiac Monitor. A device used to check the electrical activity of the heart (eg: Philips HeartStart).
Defibrillator. A device used to deliver an electric shock to the heart in order to restore normal heart rhythm (eg: Medtronic Physio-Control).
Surgical Instruments. Tools used to perform surgery, such as scissors, forceps, and scalpels (eg: Covidien).
Angioplasty Balloons. Devices used to expand blocked or narrowed blood vessels (eg: Bard Peripheral Vascular).

Professional Organizations to Know

American College of Cardiology (ACC)
American Heart Association (AHA)
Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI)
American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS)
Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)
International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery (ISCVS)
European Society of Cardiology (ESC)
Asian Society for Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (ASCVTS)
World Society for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery (WSPCHS)
International College of Angiology (ICA)

Common Important Terms

Cardiac Surgery. A surgical procedure that is performed on the heart or surrounding tissue to treat various cardiac conditions.
Cardiac Catheterization. A procedure used to diagnose and treat heart conditions, including coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure.
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG). A surgical procedure that is used to treat coronary artery disease by bypassing clogged or blocked arteries.
Thoracic Surgery. A surgical procedure performed on the chest or thoracic cavity to treat diseases or conditions of the lungs and chest.
Angioplasty. A procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Vascular Surgery. A surgical procedure that is used to treat various diseases or conditions of the arteries and veins.
Aortic Surgery. A procedure used to repair a damaged or weakened aorta, which is the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood away from the heart.
Heart Valve Surgery. A procedure used to repair, replace, or modify a damaged or malfunctioning heart valve.
Electrophysiology. The study of electrical activity in the heart and other organs of the body.
Cardiothoracic Anesthesia. An anesthetic technique used during cardiac and thoracic surgery to manage pain, breathing, and other vital functions during a surgical procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the educational requirement to become a Cardiovascular Surgeon?

A Cardiovascular Surgeon must have completed a 4-year undergraduate degree, followed by 4 years of medical school and 5-7 years of residency in cardiovascular surgery.

What type of tasks does a Cardiovascular Surgeon perform?

Cardiovascular Surgeons perform a variety of tasks including diagnosing, treating and caring for patients with diseases and defects of the heart and blood vessels. They also perform surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacement, and heart transplantation.

What type of environment does a Cardiovascular Surgeon work in?

Cardiovascular Surgeons typically work in hospitals or medical centers, operating rooms, and outpatient care centers.

What is the average salary of a Cardiovascular Surgeon?

The median annual salary of a Cardiovascular Surgeon is $355,679, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What are the risks associated with being a Cardiovascular Surgeon?

Being a Cardiovascular Surgeon involves physical risks such as long periods of standing, exposure to infectious diseases, and the potential for injury from sharp instruments. There is also the potential for emotional stress due to the life-or-death decisions that can be required in the operating room.