If you want a career as a vascular surgeon, here is how competitive the medical specialty is to match into a vascular surgery residency. Vascular surgery is the branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the vascular tree, including arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels, exclusive of those within the cranial cavity and the heart. It is a surgical subspeciality, but you can match into a direct vascular surgery program.
Statistics on the Vascular Surgery Match
As of the most recent NRMP data, vascular surgery had a total of 143 applicants and 84 spots. This equates to 1.7 applicants per position. Of the 95 U.S. MD seniors who applied, 23 did not match.
| Total Positions | Total Number of Applicants | Number of Applicants per Position |
| 84 | 143 | 1.7 |
Osteopathic (DO) Students Matching into Vascular Surgery
The total number of DO Senior Applicants was 13. Of those, 1 matched, for a 7.69% match percentage. This makes vascular surgery a Not Friendly field for osteopathic students.
| Total DO Applicants | Matched DO Applicants | DO Match Percentage | |
| 13 | 1 | 7.69% |
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) Matching into Vascular Surgery
Because there are 1.13 U.S. MD applicants per 1 program spot, vascular surgery is considered to be Not Friendly for IMGs students.
Honors, Research and Awards for Vascular Surgery Residency Candidates
The average matched U.S. applicant had 6.5 volunteer experiences and 3.3 work experiences. They had 4.7 research experiences and 10.5 abstracts, presentations and publications. That makes this specialty on where the number of publications needed is High.
| Research Experiences | Abstracts, Presentations and Publications | Work Experiences | Volunteer Experiences |
| 4.7 | 10.5 | 3.3 | 6.5 |
Average Step 2 Scores for Vascular Surgery
The mean USMLE Step 2 CK score was 250. The overall competitiveness level of vascular surgery is Very High for a U.S. senior.
How long is a residency in vascular surgery? What is the lifestyle like for a vascular surgery resident?
Compared to other residencies, vascular surgery has a Long training length. As far as lifestyle, vascular surgeons generally have a High stress lifestyle. Of course, lifestyle is very subjective and if you love what you do, it does not matter! And if you hate what you do, it can still be rough no matter what. In medicine, you should find the specialty that makes you enjoy your everyday interactions with patients, staff and colleagues.
What is the average salary for a vascular surgeon?
The average salary post-graduation from a vascular surgery residency is $485,000, provided one does not go on to sub-specialty training which can change the salary substantially. Academic versus private practice as well as location also play a large role in physician compensation.
What are fellowships one can do from a vascular surgery residency?
Vascular surgery can be a fellowship from general surgery, but if you matched into the residency no further fellowship is required.
What are the best vascular surgery residencies in the country?
The best residency for vascular surgery, or any specialty, is very driven by personal preference and situation. How close you are to family, loved ones, the type of training environment, the opportunities available are all things to take into consideration above and beyond name recognition of a program. However, there are some highly regarded names in the world of vascular surgery including:
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- University of Minnesota Medical School
- University of Pennsylvania Health System
- University of South Florida Morsani
- University of Washington School of Medicine
- UPMC Medical Education
- USC/LAC+USC Medical Center
- Massachusetts General Hospital
Much of the data above is available from the AAMC Charting the Outcomes report.
FAQ: What Else Can I Learn About Vascular Surgery Residency?
Q: What makes vascular surgery an appealing specialty?
A: Vascular surgery is appealing because it combines medical management, minimally invasive procedures, and open surgical techniques to treat vascular diseases. Surgeons in this specialty focus on improving blood flow, addressing complex circulatory issues, and often performing life-saving interventions. The specialty offers a mix of intellectual challenges, technical precision, and opportunities to make a significant impact on patients’ lives.
Q: How many vascular surgery residency positions are available each year?
A: Approximately 70-100 integrated vascular surgery residency positions are offered annually in the United States. The specialty is competitive, with programs seeking applicants who have strong academic performance, technical aptitude, and a demonstrated interest in vascular disease.
Q: Do I need research experience to match into vascular surgery?
A: Yes, research experience is highly recommended. Projects in areas like endovascular techniques, vascular grafts, or outcomes of vascular interventions can enhance your application and show your dedication to advancing the specialty. Publications and presentations at vascular surgery conferences are particularly valuable.
Q: How important are away rotations for matching into vascular surgery?
A: Away rotations are highly beneficial for applicants targeting specific programs or seeking additional exposure to vascular surgery. They allow you to demonstrate your technical skills, teamwork, and enthusiasm for the specialty while building relationships with faculty and residents. Strong performance during an away rotation can lead to impactful letters of recommendation.
Q: What should I include in my personal statement for vascular surgery?
A: Your personal statement should highlight your passion for solving complex vascular problems, your interest in both open and minimally invasive techniques, and your ability to work in a team-oriented, high-pressure environment. Discuss specific clinical experiences or research projects that inspired your interest in vascular surgery and outline your long-term goals in the field.
Q: What types of conditions do vascular surgeons treat?
A: Vascular surgeons treat a wide range of conditions, including peripheral artery disease (PAD), aortic aneurysms, carotid artery disease, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and varicose veins. They also manage vascular trauma, dialysis access, and complications related to diabetes, such as critical limb ischemia.
Q: What procedures do vascular surgeons typically perform?
A: Vascular surgeons perform procedures such as endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), carotid endarterectomy, angioplasty and stenting, bypass grafting, thrombectomy, and vein ablation. They also perform open surgeries for complex aortic aneurysms and vascular trauma, as well as minimally invasive catheter-based interventions.
Q: Are there opportunities for vascular surgeons to focus on research?
A: Yes, vascular surgery is a research-intensive field. Surgeons often conduct studies on advanced endovascular techniques, vascular graft materials, and outcomes of minimally invasive interventions. Research on vascular biology, tissue regeneration, and devices like stents and grafts also plays a critical role in the specialty.
Q: What subspecialties are available within vascular surgery?
A: While vascular surgery is itself a specialized field, surgeons may focus on particular areas, including:
– Endovascular Surgery: Minimally invasive techniques for vascular disease.
– Aortic Surgery: Treating aneurysms and dissections of the aorta.
– Venous Surgery: Managing varicose veins, venous insufficiency, and DVT.
– Dialysis Access Surgery: Creating and maintaining access for hemodialysis.
– Limb Salvage: Addressing critical limb ischemia to prevent amputation.
– Trauma Surgery: Managing vascular injuries in emergency settings.
Q: What does the lifestyle of a vascular surgeon typically look like?
A: Vascular surgeons often have demanding schedules, especially those working in trauma centers or academic institutions. However, many surgeons in outpatient-focused practices or endovascular specialties enjoy more predictable hours. The specialty’s mix of elective and emergency cases allows for both variety and flexibility in career paths.
Q: What innovations are shaping the future of vascular surgery?
A: Innovations in vascular surgery include advancements in endovascular techniques, such as fenestrated and branched stent grafts, and improvements in imaging technologies like intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and CT angiography. Developments in bioengineered grafts, robotics, and artificial intelligence for surgical planning are also transforming the field.
Q: How does vascular surgery intersect with other specialties?
A: Vascular surgeons collaborate closely with cardiologists, nephrologists, general surgeons, and interventional radiologists. They also work with wound care specialists and endocrinologists to manage diabetic complications and vascular-related chronic conditions.
Q: Are there fellowship opportunities after completing a vascular surgery residency?
A: For those in integrated vascular surgery programs, additional fellowships are not required but are available for further specialization. Areas of focus include advanced endovascular techniques, aortic surgery, and clinical research. Academic roles may involve additional training in education or leadership.
Q: What role do vascular surgeons play in patient outcomes?
A: Vascular surgeons play a critical role in improving patient outcomes by restoring blood flow, managing chronic vascular diseases, and preventing limb loss. Their expertise in both medical and surgical approaches allows for comprehensive care and life-saving interventions in emergency situations.
Q: What are the career opportunities for vascular surgeons?
A: Vascular surgeons can work in academic institutions, private practice, hospital-based systems, or integrated vascular centers. Many also pursue careers in research, medical device development, or leadership roles within healthcare organizations. The specialty’s diversity offers flexibility in career paths.
Q: How do vascular surgeons handle complex cases?
A: Vascular surgeons use advanced imaging, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cutting-edge surgical techniques to approach complex cases. They carefully evaluate each patient’s anatomy, health status, and treatment goals to create customized plans that optimize outcomes and minimize risks.
Q: How do I find shadowing opportunities with a vascular surgeon?
A: Contact vascular surgery departments at academic medical centers or hospitals. Networking through medical school advisors, mentors, or surgical interest groups can also help you connect with vascular surgeons who are open to shadowing opportunities.
Q: What professional organizations can I join as a vascular surgery student?
A: Students interested in vascular surgery can join organizations such as the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS), American College of Surgeons (ACS), and Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Society (VESS). These organizations provide mentorship, networking, and access to educational resources and conferences.
Q: How early should I start preparing for a career in vascular surgery?
A: Begin early by excelling in anatomy, surgical rotations, and research. Join vascular surgery interest groups, participate in relevant research projects, and seek shadowing opportunities. Clinical rotations in vascular surgery during medical school are essential for gaining experience and strengthening your residency application.
Did You Know?
- Vascular surgery became a formal specialty in the 20th century:
Vascular surgery emerged as a distinct specialty in the 1940s and 1950s with advancements in arterial reconstruction techniques. The development of the first successful repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm in 1951 marked a significant milestone in the field.
- Vascular surgeons treat both arteries and veins:
Vascular surgeons are trained to manage a wide range of conditions affecting the circulatory system, including peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, aortic aneurysms, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They use both surgical and minimally invasive techniques to restore blood flow.
- Minimally invasive techniques revolutionized vascular surgery:
Procedures like endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and angioplasty with stenting have transformed patient care, allowing for faster recovery times and reduced risks compared to traditional open surgeries. These advancements make vascular surgery one of the most innovative surgical specialties.
Explore Other Specialties:
| Specialty | Average Step 2 Score (Matched) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesiology | 246 |
| Child Neurology | 246 |
| Dermatology | 256 |
| Diagnostic Radiology | 249 |
| Emergency Medicine | 247 |
| Family Medicine | 238 |
| General Surgery | 249 |
| Internal Medicine | 248 |
| Internal Medicine/Pediatrics | 250 |
| Interventional Radiology | 255 |
| Neurological Surgery | 252 |
| Neurology | 245 |
| Obstetrics and Gynecology | 248 |
| Orthopaedic Surgery | 255 |
| Otolaryngology | 256 |
| Pathology | 242 |
| Pediatrics | 245 |
| Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation | 241 |
| Plastic Surgery | 256 |
| Psychiatry | 241 |
| Radiation Oncology | 250 |
| Vascular Surgery | 247 |
