Uncovering the impacts of cardiothoracic surgeon-mothers' careers on their children: Partner perspectives

Objectives

Careers in cardiothoracic (CT) surgery can substantially impact home dynamics, specifically influencing relationships and interactions with children. Factors impacting family experiences of CT surgeon-mothers have not been well-described. We sought to describe co-parent perceptions of child emotional and psychological well-being in families with CT surgeon-mothers.

Methods

An electronic survey was designed to elicit insights into the experiences of children of women CT surgeons. The survey was distributed to the parenting partners of 521 members of the Women in Thoracic Surgery, who shared their opinions on the benefits and disadvantages of their children having a CT surgeon-mother. Collected data were descriptively analyzed and quantitative data summarized.

Results

Thirty-five co-parents completed the survey. Among them, 13 (37%) had 1 child, 17 (49%) had 2, and 5 (14%) reported 3 or more. Their children's ages were 0-5 years, 12, 35%; 6-12 years, 8, 24%; 13-17 years, 9, 26%; and 18+ years, 5, 15%. For the youngest group, three-quarters (9, 75%) described their CT surgeon partner's career as nurturing their child's empathy. In the 18+ age group, CT surgeon-mothers’ careers were seen as promoting resilience and adaptability but also as impetus for feelings of isolation and resentment. Single-child families more frequently reported negative effects of a career in CT surgery, whereas families with 3+ children more frequently reported positive effects.

Conclusions

Children of CT surgeon-mothers experiences differ across ages and family sizes. Tailored interventions and support systems may help target specific needs of surgeons’ children, promoting resilience and healthy development.