ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS)
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) is an advanced qualification designed to provide learners with in-depth knowledge, practical skills, and professional expertise in the complex and highly specialised field of cardiothoracic surgery. This programme equips learners to understand, assess, and participate in surgical procedures and patient care related to the heart, lungs, and thoracic cavity, while emphasising clinical excellence, safety, and evidence-based practice.
Through a comprehensive curriculum, learners explore key areas including cardiac anatomy and physiology, thoracic surgical techniques, perioperative care, surgical risk management, and post-operative patient management. The course is structured to develop analytical thinking, clinical decision-making, and practical competency, enabling learners to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary surgical teams and deliver optimal patient outcomes.
The Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery also emphasises professional standards, ethics, and adherence to clinical protocols, preparing learners to operate confidently in surgical, hospital, and healthcare settings. Ideal for medical professionals, surgeons, and clinicians seeking advanced expertise, this qualification supports career progression, specialist roles, and leadership opportunities within cardiothoracic surgery departments.
Designed to meet international standards, the programme integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing learners to gain both competence and confidence in complex surgical procedures, patient assessment, and perioperative management. By completing this diploma, learners enhance their employability, professional credibility, and ability to make a meaningful impact in cardiothoracic surgery, positioning themselves as skilled practitioners capable of delivering high-quality patient care in this specialised field.
Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Advanced Cardiac Anatomy and Physiology
- Thoracic Surgical Techniques and Procedures
- Perioperative Care and Patient Management
- Surgical Risk Assessment and Complications Management
- Evidence-Based Practice in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
1. Advanced Cardiac Anatomy and Physiology
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of cardiac structure, function, and physiology relevant to cardiothoracic surgery.
- Analyse the cardiovascular system’s role in health and disease, including haemodynamics and cardiac electrophysiology.
- Apply anatomical and physiological knowledge to surgical planning and patient assessment.
- Evaluate the impact of pathological conditions on cardiac and thoracic function.
- Integrate scientific research into clinical decision-making and surgical practice.
2. Thoracic Surgical Techniques and Procedures
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of thoracic and cardiac surgical procedures, including indications, techniques, and outcomes.
- Analyse the principles of minimally invasive and open surgical interventions.
- Apply surgical skills in preclinical simulations and case-based scenarios.
- Assess patient suitability and procedural planning for cardiothoracic operations.
- Maintain adherence to surgical protocols, safety standards, and ethical guidelines.
3. Perioperative Care and Patient Management
- Develop advanced skills in perioperative assessment, monitoring, and patient preparation.
- Implement evidence-based care plans to optimise patient outcomes before, during, and after surgery.
- Analyse post-operative recovery, complications, and rehabilitation strategies.
- Apply critical thinking to anticipate and manage perioperative challenges.
- Communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated patient care.
4. Surgical Risk Assessment and Complications Management
- Identify and evaluate potential risks and complications associated with cardiothoracic surgery.
- Develop strategies for preemptive risk reduction and patient safety enhancement.
- Apply clinical decision-making to manage intraoperative and post-operative complications.
- Analyse case studies to learn best practices in surgical risk management.
- Maintain accurate documentation and follow legal and ethical requirements in patient care.
5. Evidence-Based Practice in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Critically appraise current research, clinical trials, and guidelines in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Apply evidence-based principles to surgical planning, patient care, and treatment decisions.
- Evaluate the validity, reliability, and applicability of clinical evidence.
- Integrate research findings into practical surgical interventions.
- Develop reflective practice skills to support continuous professional development.
6. Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance
- Demonstrate adherence to professional ethics, clinical governance, and healthcare standards.
- Develop effective communication and leadership skills within surgical and multidisciplinary teams.
- Identify opportunities for career advancement, specialist roles, and leadership in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Apply risk management, quality assurance, and patient safety principles in clinical practice.
- Reflect on professional practice to enhance competence, accountability, and lifelong learning.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) equips learners with advanced knowledge, practical expertise, and professional credibility essential for growth in surgical practice, cardiothoracic healthcare, and clinical leadership. This qualification prepares learners for a wide range of career opportunities and supports further academic and professional development, addressing the increasing demand for skilled cardiothoracic specialists.
Career Opportunities
- Cardiothoracic Surgeon: Work in hospitals or specialised clinics performing heart, lung, and thoracic procedures.
- Surgical Specialist or Consultant: Provide expert surgical support, patient assessment, and perioperative care in advanced healthcare settings.
- Clinical Team Leadership Roles: Supervise surgical teams, manage operating theatres, and ensure adherence to clinical governance standards.
- Research and Development Positions: Engage in clinical research, surgical innovation, and development of evidence-based surgical techniques.
- Patient Care and Rehabilitation Roles: Contribute to post-operative care, recovery planning, and multidisciplinary patient management.
Further Academic Progression
- Undertake specialist certifications in advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive procedures, or perioperative care.
- Engage in continuous professional development (CPD) courses to remain updated with emerging surgical practices, clinical guidelines, and industry best practices.
Professional Development and Industry Recognition
- Enhance employability and leadership opportunities in both local and international surgical and healthcare sectors.
- Develop critical skills in ethical practice, surgical assessment, perioperative management, and evidence-based decision-making, positioning learners for sustained career growth and meaningful impact in cardiothoracic surgery.