Description

Cardiothoracic surgeons are in charge of performing clinical duties and cardiothoracic surgeries on behalf of their organization. They are generally responsible for providing excellent patient care, resolving inquiries as they arise, and leading a team of clinical professionals in and out the surgery room, so strong leadership skills are required to avoid incidents during treatment and surgery.These surgeons are highly organized and pay close attention to detail, and must follow strict safety and privacy procedures and respect patient confidentiality. They also follow up with post-surgery care and treatment options, oversee recovery advancement, read patient charts to recommend treatment options. Other primary responsibilities include recommending surgical treatments, transplanting ventricular assist devices, performing research on patients' illnesses, using specialized tools and clinical devices, and actively participating in peer reviews to recommend innovative solutions to cardiothoracic obstacles before and after operations.Cardiothoracic surgeons have expert knowledge of robotic techniques to perform surgery steps with the help of automated equipment, and also participate in training sessions to further their education and familiarize themselves with the latest technology in their field. They must work well with other surgeons to reach all objectives within specific time-frames, but also perform effectively on their own, as they work in a fast-paced environment which requires excellent multitasking skills. A medical degree in cardiology specializing in cardiothoracic surgery is required for this position, and prior work experience in a surgeon capacity is highly beneficial. Medical and leadership certifications are also helpful.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Cardiothoracic Surgeon with 9+ years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Perform complex surgical procedures on the heart, lungs, and other thoracic organs, ensuring precision and attention to detail. Execute intricate surgical interventions on vital organs in the chest, focusing on accuracy and meticulousness.
  • Diagnose and evaluate patients' conditions, utilizing advanced medical imaging techniques and diagnostic tests. Assess and analyze patients' health conditions by employing cutting-edge medical imaging methods and diagnostic examinations.
  • Develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients, incorporating surgical interventions, medications, and other therapeutic modalities. Create detailed and all-encompassing treatment strategies for patients, integrating surgical procedures, medications, and additional therapeutic approaches.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, including anesthesiologists, nurses, and other specialists, to ensure optimal patient care.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Cardiothoracic Surgeon, the following qualifications are required:

  • A Cardiothoracic Surgeon must hold a medical degree from an accredited institution, demonstrating a strong foundation in medical knowledge and practice.
  • Completion of a residency program in cardiothoracic surgery is essential to gain specialized knowledge and skills in surgical techniques related to the heart, lungs, and other thoracic organs.
  • Obtaining board certification from the American Board of Thoracic Surgery or a similar governing body is necessary to demonstrate competence and proficiency in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
  • A Cardiothoracic Surgeon should possess exceptional surgical skills, including dexterity, precision, and the ability to handle complex procedures involving cardiac and thoracic surgeries.

Essential Skills For Cardiothoracic Surgeon

1

Health Care

2

Emergency Response

3

Medical Technology

Skills That Affect Cardiothoracic Surgeon Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Health Care

26%

Healthcare Operations

34%

Career Prospects

The role of a Cardiothoracic Surgeon is crucial in the healthcare industry, especially for professionals with 9+ years of experience in Canada. However, if you are looking for alternative roles to explore, here are four options to consider:

  • Cardiac Anesthesiologist: A specialized role focused on administering anesthesia during heart surgeries and monitoring patients' vital signs throughout the procedure.
  • Cardiovascular Researcher: An opportunity to contribute to medical advancements by conducting research studies and clinical trials to improve cardiovascular treatments and outcomes.
  • Cardiothoracic Nurse Practitioner: A role that involves providing direct patient care, assisting in surgeries, and managing post-operative care for cardiothoracic patients.
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist: A position dedicated to helping patients recover and improve their heart health through supervised exercise programs, lifestyle counseling, and education.

How to Learn

The role of Cardiothoracic Surgeon in Canada is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. According to a 10-year analysis, the job market for Cardiothoracic Surgeons is projected to expand steadily due to various factors such as an aging population and advancements in medical technology. The employment opportunities for this profession are anticipated to increase, presenting a positive outlook for aspiring Cardiothoracic Surgeons.