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Indiana University School of Medicine
Indiana University School of Medicine
Surgery
Group picture of CT residents and Fellows

Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency

Welcome to the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Indiana University School of Medicine, home to two residency training pathways: the three-year traditional program and the six-year integrated program. These pathways offer robust cardiothoracic surgical education across diverse clinical settings, preparing graduates for the American Board of Thoracic Surgery examinations.

Our program provides hands-on experience in clinical and surgical decision-making across adult cardiac, pediatric/congenital cardiothoracic and general thoracic disciplines. We foster a culture of respect and accountability, which is essential for your success.

Educational opportunities include conferences, surgical skills simulation sessions and board examination preparation. Residents are encouraged to engage in clinical research and quality improvement projects to enhance their academic experience.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Training

Medical students who are interested in applying to the cardiothoracic surgery residency at Indiana University School of Medicine can find out more about the requirements and process.
12820-Herrmann, Jeremy

Jeremy L. Herrmann, MD

Associate Professor of Surgery

Cardiothoracic Surgery I-6 and T-3 Program Director

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Meghan Thompson

Cardiothoracic Surgery Education Residency Coordinator

Contact for residency questions

14544-Rieger, Karen

Karen M. Rieger, MD

Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery

Cardiothoracic Surgery I-6 and T-3 Program Director

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Thoracic surgeons performing a surgery

Application

Find application requirements and answers to frequently asked questions about this program.

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Six-Year Integrated

This six-year program is perfect for those who wish to enter cardiothoracic surgical training straight out of medical school.

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Current Residents

Meet the current cardiothoracic surgery residents.

Cardiothoracic surgery taking place in the OR

Cardiothoracic Three-Year Fellowship

This program is ideal for those who have completed an accredited general surgery residency. One resident is accepted into this training pathway each year. The resident can elect either a “Cardiac Track” or “Thoracic Track” depending on her/his interests. Clinical exposure covers all aspects of adult cardiac, general thoracic, and pediatric/congenital cardiothoracic surgery. There is an emphasis on progressive autonomy in clinical and surgical decision-making as the resident’s abilities grow.

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Program Goals

  • Train residents to be safe, competent, independent practitioners of adult cardiothoracic surgery upon completion of the residency program
  • Provide comprehensive clinical education that can serve as a foundation for those residents who wish to pursue advanced fellowship training in a sub-specialty area
  • Prepare graduates to attain the American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification successfully
  • Enable residents to critically evaluate and interpret scientific evidence and literature to guide clinical practice and continue lifelong self-education
  • Foster opportunities for stewardship and leadership in the cardiothoracic surgical community both locally and nationally
Diverse group of surgical resident researchers

Resident Research and Professional Development

Surgical residents can pause their clinical training after the second year and pursue a two-year period of professional development. This time includes participating in clinical, basic/translational, or education-based research. Residents select a funded faculty mentor in their field of interest and begin meeting with them during their second year.  Residents are encouraged to apply for extramural grants to support their work. Residents also have the opportunity to pursue a master's degree, which the Department of Surgery will help finance.

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Diverse group of residents with visiting professor

Dynamic Environment

The Department of Surgery is dedicated to creating a welcoming and vibrant environment where every individual’s experiences, perspectives, and talents are respected and valued. We strive to attract outstanding faculty, staff, and learners by fostering a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and continuous growth. Our commitment extends to supporting professional and personal development while promoting a shared sense of purpose, excellence, and teamwork across all areas of education, research, and clinical care.

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Life In Indy

Indianapolis, Indiana, is a vibrant city that beckons with its blend of urban excitement and Midwestern charm. Nestled at the Crossroads of America, it offers a thriving cultural scene, world-class sports and robust education. As home to IU School of Medicine, the largest medical and research university, it boasts top-notch health care and research opportunities. With a low cost of living and a welcoming community, Indianapolis invites you to experience a fulfilling life in the heart of the Midwest, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.

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Clinical Facilities

Clinical training for surgery residency is based at the five major teaching hospitals located on the IU School of Medicine’s downtown Indianapolis campus: IU Health University Hospital, Riley Hospital for Children, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Eskenazi Health and IU Health Methodist Hospital. In addition to the traditional surgical services at these sites, the Department of Surgery offers preceptor models of surgical training at two suburban hospitals: IU Health North and IU Health West.

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Where are they now?

Check out where our alumni have ended up after finishing our program.

Program Graduates

Meet Our Faculty

Meet our expert cardiothoracic surgery faculty, dedicated to shaping the future of surgeon-scientists through comprehensive training in clinical practice and cutting-edge research.

resources Office of GME