Gender differences in general surgical careers: results of a post-residency survey

Background This study’s purpose was to gain perspective regarding general surgery career choices while examining gender differences. Methods Graduates of a general surgery residency (n = 189) received surveys addressing fellowship training, practice type, case composition, work hours, academic involvement, income, residency, and career satisfaction. Results Several gender differences were identified. Most men (64%) listed general surgery as their primary work type, whereas women most commonly reported breast surgery (38%, P < .001). More women worked <40 hours per week (25% versus 9%, P = .049). There was no gender difference in income for fellowship-trained surgeons, but a disparity in income >$200,000 favored non–fellowship-trained men (74% versus 36%, P = .0031). Both genders reduced work hours. Women reduced them exclusively for personal/family demands. Both genders reported satisfaction with their surgical careers (93%). Conclusions Some gender differences in surgery were identified. However, both genders maintain a high level of satisfaction with their career choice.