From the President’s Desk
Holding the Fort: Thoracic Surgery and Society Work Over Half Term
02 June 2025
(Last updated: 2 Jun 2025 10:53)
FRCS(CTh) Success and Support
Warm congratulations to all candidates who were successful in the specialist FRCS(CTh) examination. This is a demanding test and a significant milestone — we share your pride in achieving it.
To those who were not successful this time, we extend our sincere commiserations. Please know that you are not alone. Many colleagues have experienced setbacks before going on to make great contributions to our specialty. The Society is here to support you: both in recovering from this experience, and in preparing for your next attempt. Give yourself time, pick yourself up, recover, and stay strong.
We are also grateful to the examiners, faculty and organisers, whose efforts make this vital process possible. The high standards you maintain help ensure excellent care for our patients.
A Return to the Heart of Our Work
With many colleagues away at ESTS, ISMICS and others taking well-earned half-term leave, I found myself the only thoracic surgeon at Royal Papworth for several days. That came with an abundance of operating: daily lists, supported by a team of keen residents and dedicated staff, all working enthusiastically to maintain flow.
The chance to focus on the most rewarding part of our profession: direct patient care, is always a real joy.
That said, after several uninterrupted days on call, I admit that recovery now takes a little longer than it once did. Is it ageing, increasing commitments, or probably both? The work remains deeply fulfilling, but I am continuing to learn how rest and restoration are not indulgences. They are essential if we are to stay well and serve our patients safely.
Of course, the reality of this clinical intensity means there are still calls to return and emails to send. If you are waiting to hear back from me, thank you for your patience. And yes, please send a nudge.
Society Business and Strategic Progress
The work of the Society continues at pace. In recent days, we have finalised or progressed some position statements, advanced discussions with partners, and appointed a new HR lead to support our excellent administrative team.
We are also preparing for our Summer Executive Meeting, the first of my presidency, and I look forward to productive discussions with the wider leadership group.
Bulletin Contributions Welcome
Thank you to all who have submitted articles for the upcoming edition of the SCTS Bulletin. The response has been excellent. If you have been considering a contribution, please do send it in before the Editorial Board meets in the coming days.
This is your platform, and we warmly encourage all members, including trainees, consultants, allied professionals and students, to share insights, innovations and reflections.
To submit, please email your contribution directly to Emma Piotrowski at emma@scts.org
A Personal Note on Recovery
It is now one year since I suffered a serious accident, resulting in a skull fracture and intracranial bleed. When the 999-system failed to dispatch an ambulance, I was taken to hospital by a kind passer-by, losing consciousness not long after arrival.
I was off work for several weeks, and I still have some amnesia from that period. Although I returned to full duties many months ago, it is a surprise to me when I notice a subtle sign of ongoing recovery. Something so small you don’t know is lost, till it comes back.
Experiencing illness, vulnerability and recovery first-hand has deepened my empathy for patients. I hope it is making me a better and more reflective doctor.
Warm regards,
Aman S Coonar
President, Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain & Ireland (SCTS)
Feedback — good or bad — is encouraged and gratefully received.
Please send comments to Emma Piotrowski at emma@scts.org or contact me directly at aman.coonar@nhs.net.
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