The most common thoracic operation is lobectomy or pneumonectomy for carcinoma of the bronchus. The specialty includes a need to be competent and able on the intensive care unit for the post operative care of these patients. There are many research opportunities in this specialty and it is expected that trainees will participate in research projects. Consultant cardiothoracic surgeons operate usually about three days per week, have one out patient clinic and are generally on call 1 in 3 or 1 in 4. In addition there may be a commitment to cardiothoracic transplantation and the care of cardiothoracic trauma.
Consultants generally tend to develop expertise in particular areas of the specialty.
Consultants tend to divide into three groups, cardiac surgeons, thoracic surgeons and combined cardiothoracic surgeons. Most cardiothoracic surgeons participate in private practice. However, there is a large mismatch between the number of applicants for SpR posts in this specialty and the small number of vacancies. The competition to obtain SpR posts in this specialty is fierce and currently there are no plans to expand registrar numbers in this specialty. Personal Qualities Candidates should have the ability to make sound clinical judgement.