University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Program

Program Identity & Fit

This is a six-year ACGME-accredited integrated thoracic surgery residency at an academic, tertiary/quaternary referral center serving as the regional leader in cardiothoracic care for Iowa and the surrounding region, with complex case volume spanning mechanical circulatory support, heart and lung transplant, ECMO, and advanced cardiac and thoracic pathology. Training is anchored by a dedicated Center for Procedural Skills and Simulation with a resident boot camp, and curriculum emphasizes robotics, endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques, reflecting an explicit institutional push toward technology-forward operative training. Research is described as diverse and integral to departmental mission (outcomes research, clinical trials, QI, basic science) though not mandated, and the program explicitly supports trainees pursuing either academic or private practice careers. Only one integrated position is offered per year, and program messaging and resident testimonials repeatedly emphasize a collegial, individually-supportive culture and longitudinal faculty investment in resident development.