Licensed cardiovascular surgeons are highly-trained medical professionals who perform a wide range of surgical procedures on human hearts. These doctors primarily repair damage to the heart caused by obesity-related diseases, smoking, and diabetes. Using precision tools, high-tech cameras, robotic equipment and the assistance of a team of other doctors and nurses, a cardiovascular surgeon performs critical operations to repair heart-related conditions.

Heart specialists typically hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher. These surgeons attend prestigious medical schools, post graduation, to obtain the appropriate credential and licensing needed to perform surgical-based procedures. These credentials require internships, seven to ten-year-long residencies, and attendance at other state-imposed licensing programs. The last few years of a new surgeon's residency are focused on conducting heart surgeries under supervision and performing procedures. Upon completion of a qualified residency program, the new doctor must take an extensive licensing exam. This very important exam covers all aspects one would learn in medical school and is typically administered by a nationally-recognized governing agency or organization.

Most heart surgeons are employed by large hospitals, clinics, or private surgical facilities. They typically perform scheduled surgeries for patients in need of treatment. However, some surgeries are performed on an emergency basis for critical-care patients.

Some cardiovascular surgeons specialize in specific types of operations. Many focus on performing open-heart surgeries, heart transplants, or pacemaker-placement. Other specialists focus on treating certain types of patients. They can focus on treating heart-related conditions in children, or focus on older patients. Some focus on treating individual conditions associated with cardiovascular disease, in a preventative setting. Cancers, dietary malnutrition, and other diseases that directly affect the heart are some of the specialties that lie within the cardio surgeon sector.

Continued advancements in medical technology, surgical procedures, and new equipment require these professionals to take continuing education courses and classes, as well as extensively read medical journals and reports. Those interested in going to school to become a cardiovascular surgeon may notice that large numbers of computer-related classes and courses are now required to graduate from medical school. This is due in large part to the increase in surgical-related medical-digital technology. Data machines and screening machinery require a strong computer background to effectively use and translate their data.

Cardiovascular surgeons are professionally-trained medical technicians that implement the newest and most advanced technologies to treat a variety of heart-related conditions, diseases, and ailments. One interested in the field should inquire with an accredited college to begin the entry process requirements for this prestigious career.