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Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship

The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship Program offers high-volume clinical exposure, cutting-edge robotics and a commitment to surgical excellence. 

A Message From the Program Director

Welcome to the Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship Program. 

Approved in March 2026, this fully accredited fellowship offers robust academic infrastructure, expert faculty and extensive resources in a setting of rapid cardiac and general thoracic growth and innovation. 

While the program is new and will be in development, Saint Louis University School of Medicine has a long history of cardiothoracic surgery and associated education. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Headshot of Joseph Platz

Joseph Platz, M.D.
Program director


Program Overview

The two-year, ACGME-accredited cardiothoracic surgery fellowship offers training with a strong multidisciplinary team of nurses, attendings, NPs/PAs, general surgery residents, medical students and multiple other service lines. 

Fellows train at the following sites:

Clinical and Educational Experiences

  • Advanced Technologies and Techniques: surgical/endoluminal robotics, endovascular interventions and minimally invasive techniques
  • Subspecialty Rotations: general thoracic, adult cardiac, congenital and structural cardiology
  • Comprehensive Training: skilled management and treatment of complex cardiothoracic pathology supported by TSDA curriculum and extensive Simlab experience

Program Highlights

  • Three proximal academic training sites
  • Robotics and endovascular exposure
  • Supported national conference attendance
  • Access to advanced simulation facilities

Meet the Faculty

Apply

The fellowship program has one available position per year. Applicants should be board-eligible or board-certified thoracic surgeons who have completed an accredited cardiothoracic residency program. 

Having received accreditation in March 2026, the program is considering out-of-match candidates for a Fall 2027 start. It will fully participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) beginning in 2027. 

Review the Application Process

About the SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Graduate Medical Education Program

SSM Health proudly sponsors the Graduate Medical Education Program at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. This university-based training program offers a world-class academic environment that fosters clinical excellence, research innovation and compassionate care. All program participants are employed by SSM Health, ensuring a cohesive and supportive experience within a nationally recognized health system.