Welcome back to the Brown Surgery Podcast. In this episode, we catch up with Dr. Laura Scrimgeour, a familiar voice to our longtime listeners. Since her last appearance as a chief resident in 2021, Dr. Scrimgeour has completed an extensive journey through cardiothoracic training and now returns to Brown as an attending surgeon.

Together, we dive deep into what it takes to thrive in the field of Cardiothoracic (CT) Surgery in 2026. Whether you are a medical student weighing your residency options or a general surgery resident considering a fellowship, this conversation offers a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the specialty.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Path to CT Surgery: Deciding between traditional and integrated training pathways and the value of a strong academic foundation.
The Role of Research: Why "checking the box" isn't enough, and how research years build critical mentorship and data-analysis skills.
Fellowship Selection: What to look for in a program, from operative volume and case diversity to the importance of autonomy and mentorship.
The Future of the Field: The current state of robotics in cardiac surgery and the rising importance of advanced fellowships in areas like TAVR and aortic surgery.
Breaking Misconceptions: A candid look at the life of a modern CT surgeon, the growing diversity in the OR, and how team-based structures are improving work-life balance.
Life Outside the Hospital: How Dr. Scrimgeour balances a demanding surgical schedule with her passion for the outdoors and skiing.

Instagram: @dr.laura.scrimgeour

X: @LScrimgeourMD