Thoracic Surgery Integrated (I-6) Residency

Program Overview

The UTHealth Houston Thoracic Surgery Integrated (I-6) Residency is a six-year pathway in cardiothoracic surgery. Rooted in the time-honored apprenticeship model and strengthened by high-acuity, team-based care at Memorial Hermann–Texas Medical Center, our program blends classic operative training with today’s evidence-based practice, simulation, and outcomes science.

Our department launched its first integrated cardiothoracic residency cohort on July 1, 2025, marking a major milestone for cardiac training at UTHealth Houston. Residents train within a system nationally recognized for complex cardiac and aortic care, working alongside multidisciplinary teams committed to patient safety, quality, and professionalism.

Training at a Glance

  • Duration: 6 years, integrated (I-6)

  • Clinical breadth: adult cardiac, general thoracic, aortic, critical care, general surgery, and selected vascular/hybrid experiences

  • Education: weekly conferences (M&M, case conference, journal club), skills lab/simulation, board review

  • Scholarly activity: mentored QI/outcomes projects; opportunities for national presentations and publications

Program Leadership

  • Robert Hetz, MD — Director Integrated Thoracic (I-6) Residency Program

  • Department: Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston

How to Apply

The Integrated (I-6) Residency accepts applications via ERAS and participates in the NRMP.

Program Coordinator:
Pearl Adams
6400 Fannin, Suite 2850, Houston, Texas 77030
713.486.5139 tel
713.512-7200 fax