The Division of General Thoracic Surgery is a six-member group specializing in all aspects of general thoracic surgery. We are interested in bringing the latest surgical technology to yield outstanding outcomes for our patients.

The practice is a broad-based mix of esophageal, pulmonary, transplant, mediastinal, and chest wall diseases and includes a strong emphasis on minimally invasive surgery, including robotics and natural orifice surgery. Educational activities are innovative with fellow-centered teaching conferences, e-learning, and a state-of-the-art simulation center.

Faculty

In addition to caring for patients in their clinical practices, Mayo Clinic's faculty is committed to teaching and facilitating the growth of medical knowledge. Many of our faculty members have published and lectured extensively and are highly regarded in their fields. You have direct access to these thoracic surgeons at Mayo Clinic throughout your training in the General Thoracic Surgery Fellowship.

Advisers and mentors

You are assigned a dedicated faculty adviser who can provide comprehensive educational advice and personal support. You meet with your adviser periodically throughout the program to review your progress and career goals, and ensure that your educational needs are being met. Your adviser also serves as a contact point for introducing you and your family to Rochester, Minnesota, and the Mayo Clinic system.

Visiting professors

Each year the Division of General Thoracic Surgery hosts the O.T. Clagett Named Visiting Professor. This event is sponsored by the Jack Taylor Family Foundation. In 1982, Mr. Jack Taylor, a grateful Mayo Clinic patient, provided funds for an annual lectureship to honor Jim Clagett who was one of Mayo Clinic's early thoracic surgeons. This event has become the most important academic activity of our division. The event includes rounds and lectures with nationally and internationally known general thoracic surgeons.