Abstract submission is now closed.

WTSA Membership

The Western Thoracic Surgical Association:

• Associates persons who desire to advance the quality and practice of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery as a specialty (and who either reside in or have completed a cardiothoracic residency training program within the western United States and Canada);
  
  
• Encourages research and study of thoracic and cardiovascular functions and disorders so as to increase knowledge and improve treatment; and
  
  
• Holds scientific meetings for the presentation and discussion of topics of interest to thoracic and cardiovascular surgeons and to encourage publication to these proceedings.

Applications for the 2021 cycle are now available. Applicants will have until March 1, 2021, to provide all supporting materials, which include CV with bibliography, three sponsor recommendations, and copies of the candidate's three most significant articles. Apply Now.

WTSA Mentorship Program
The WTSA seeks to pair up seasoned surgeons (Mentors) with less experienced surgeons (Mentees) to support the development of the Mentees, provide a meaningful service opportunity to Mentors, and enhance the overall collegiality of WTSA.

Mentors and Mentees should aim to interact with each other at least quarterly and be available for ad hoc interactions as needed. Geographical considerations may determine whether interactions occur in person, by phone, or through other electronic means, but Mentors and Mentees are encouraged to meet in person whenever possible. One possible opportunity for a personal meeting might be a scheduled WTSA event, or other national meeting.

Mentors should help Mentees articulate specific career goals and discuss strategies and resources to achieve those goals.

It is hoped that Mentor-Mentee pairings will last many years, but the WTSA asks that initial Mentor-Mentee pairings commit to at least one year. More

The 21st Century Founders Fund
The WTSA is seeking support to ensure the long-term viability of the Postgraduate course as well as other educational activities offered at the Annual Meeting. To achieve this goal, the Western has established the 21st Century Founders Fund. To support the unrestricted 21st Century Founders Fund, the WTSA Council is asking each Association member to consider a generous donation of 1000 USD. This may be in the form of either a single 1000 USD donation, or one 500 USD donation with a pledge to give an additional 500 USD within the next calendar year. Those who donate 1000 USD will be gratefully acknowledged in perpetuity as members of the 21st Century Founders Club on the WTSA website and at the Annual Meeting via ribbons, signage, and meeting app listings. You may donate online by credit card through the Members Only Area; you may also donate by credit card via secure fax or by check by downloading the Contribution Form.

The Western Thoracic Surgical Association is a 501(c)3 corporation; therefore, donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

The Western Thoracic Surgical Association