Fellowship Course in Cardiac Surgery

The Fellowship Course in Cardiac Surgery under the specialty of Cardio Thoracic Surgery is designed to provide comprehensive training in the surgical management of cardiac conditions. This fellowship typically lasts 1 to 2 years, depending on the institution offering the program, and is aimed at physicians who have completed their residency in general surgery or a related field. The curriculum focuses on various aspects of cardiac surgery, including surgical techniques for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair and replacement, congenital heart defect surgery, and cardiac transplant procedures.

The cardiac surgery fellowship gives surgeons specialized instruction through advanced training to perform heart condition surgical procedures.

After completing general surgery residency programs, fellows can participate in cardiac surgery fellowships where they specialize in effective treatments for various heart defects.

• Candidates must have completed an M.B.B.S. / M.D. (Medicine), MCh, or DNB in Cardiothoracic Surgery (or equivalent recognized qualification).
• For certain subspecialty fellowships (e.g., minimal access, robotic, heart failure surgery), 1–3 years of post-MCh/DNB experience may be required.
• Must be a member (often Life or Fellow Member) of the relevant professional association (e.g., IACTS for Indian programs).
• Additional requirements may include registration with the Medical Council of India or equivalent and submission of supporting documents.
• The candidate must qualify for the written and practical exams.

Fellowship courses in cardiac surgery range between 1 and 2 years, depending on the institution and the focus of the subspecialty.

Some institutes may charge an annual fee of ₹24,000 (includes examination fee), but the fee structure might vary across universities.

Candidates should confirm with the host institute.

This fellowship course is best suited for individuals looking to enhance their skills in careers in more specialized and advanced cardiac surgeries, such as:

• Complex Aortic Pathology
• Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
• Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Structural Heart, and more

Advanced specialization, teaching new surgical methods, and large-volume center practice are the main benefits of this fellowship for cardiothoracic surgeons.

This fellowship meets the requirements of healthcare professionals who plan for leadership positions in cardiac surgery research and teaching roles.

Entrance Exam

• Most fellowships require submission of an application with supporting documents.
• Selection may involve an interview and review of academic and professional credentials.
• Some programs have specific deadlines and interview dates.

• Submit an application (often via email or online portal) with all required documents (degrees, registration, CV, etc.).
• Ensure membership in the relevant professional association.
• Attend an interview if shortlisted.
• Selection is based on merit, experience, and fit with the program.
• Pay the required fees upon selection to confirm admission.

• Surgical anatomy and physiology of the heart and thoracic organs.
• Coronary artery surgery, valve repair/replacement, congenital heart surgery, and heart and lung transplantation.
• Minimally invasive and robotic cardiac surgery.
• Preoperative and postoperative care, critical care management.
• Use of advanced imaging and diagnostic modalities.
• Research methodology, case presentations, and academic activities.
• Participation in multidisciplinary meetings and conferences

Medical facilities across tertiary settings, academic institutions, and private hospitals actively recruit cardiac surgeons with fellowship training experience.

The accumulated expertise enables cardiologists to pursue multiple career paths including:

• Teaching medical staff
• Researching new surgical approaches to enhance patient care quality.
• Leading surgical teams

• Super-specialty fellowships include pediatric cardiac surgery, heart/lung transplantation, and minimally invasive or robotic surgery.
• PhD or research programs in cardiovascular sciences.
• International fellowships or observerships for global exposure.

• Consultant Cardiac or Cardiothoracic Surgeon in hospitals and heart institutes.
• Academic faculty or surgical trainer in medical colleges.
• Researcher in clinical or translational cardiac surgery.
• Leadership roles in surgical departments or professional associations.

The salary range depends on other qualifications, experience level, and location.

However, a cardiac surgery fellowship in India typically leads to a starting salary range of ₹12-28 lakhs per annum.