# Matching in the House of Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of Trends Across Surgical Subspecialties From 2015 to 2024

## TL;DR

This study examines trends in competitiveness for surgical residency programs from 2015 to 2024, finding that while some specialties have seen growth, overall demand exceeds available positions.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive decade-long analysis of match rates and applicant trends across multiple surgical subspecialties.

## Key findings

- Otolaryngology had the highest match rate (74.5%), while Vascular Surgery had the lowest (52.7%).
- Orthopedic Surgery saw significant growth in both registered and matched applicants.
- Year-specialty interactions suggest inconsistent trends across surgical subspecialties.

## Abstract

Background: Residency positions in surgical subspecialties are highly competitive due to numerous applicants and limited positions. This study analyzes a decade of trends in applicant numbers and match rates across surgical subspecialties.

Methods: Publicly available data from 2015 to 2024 were collected from the American Urologic Association and National Resident Matching Program for Neurologic Surgery, Otolaryngology, Orthopedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Urology, and Vascular Surgery. Descriptive statistics, linear regression, and analysis of variance were conducted.

Results: Of 29,483 registered applicants, 19,535 (66.3%) matched. Otolaryngology had the highest match rate (74.5%), while Vascular Surgery had the lowest (52.7%). Registered and matched applicants varied significantly by year within each specialty. For instance, Orthopedic Surgery demonstrated particularly significant growth in both registered applicants and matched applicants. Generalized linear models also revealed significant year-specialty interactions, suggesting inconsistent trends across specialties.

Conclusions: Matching into surgical specialties has grown more difficult given increased applicant numbers. Though matched applicants increased, growth is inconsistent and does not meet demand. Addressing this gap may require changes such as application process reforms or better resource distribution.