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DNB Cardiothoracic Surgery

DNB Cardiothoracic Surgery in India: Eligibility, Seats, Salary, and Key Insights

Written By
Victor Senapaty
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Reviewed By
Victor Senapaty
Updated On:
Aug 21, 2025
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10
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Victor Senapaty
Updated On:
Aug 21, 2025

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DNB cardiothoracic surgery is a specialised medical field that trains professionals in heart and lung surgery. This program offers hands-on experience and deep knowledge, preparing you to handle complex surgical procedures. 

To qualify, you must meet the DNB cardiothoracic surgery eligibility requirements, which include passing the entrance exam and securing one of the limited DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats available each year.

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • DNB cardiothoracic surgery offers a comprehensive education with both academic learning and hands-on experience in heart and lung surgery.
  • The DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage is competitive, and securing one of the limited DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats requires strong preparation for the entrance exam.
  • Graduates can expect an attractive DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary with numerous career opportunities in private and government sectors, as well as internationally.
  • The program's eligibility criteria require a valid MBBS degree and successful completion of the entrance exam and counselling process.
  • Specialisations within DNB cardiothoracic surgery allow for focused career paths, such as cardiac surgery, thoracic surgery, and minimally invasive surgery, offering room for professional growth.

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Key Details about DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery

The DNB cardiothoracic surgery program offers a unique blend of academic learning and clinical experience. Here are the crucial details you need to know about the program:

Key Aspect

Details

Duration

6 years

Eligibility

MBBS

Admission Process

Entrance Examination & Merit-Based Counselling

Academic Session

Semester Based

Degree

Diploma

Mode of Learning

Full Time

Estimated DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery

₹20,000–₹6.5 lakhs 

Top Recruiters

Apollo, Max Healthcare, Manipal, Fortis, Metro Hospital, Kailash Hospital

Average Salary

₹15 lakhs p.a.

Career Opportunities

Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Cardiac Surgeon, Lecturer, Scientist/Researcher, Specialist in government/private hospitals

Specialisations

Cardiac surgery, Thoracic surgery, Vascular surgery, Minimally invasive surgery, Cardiac anaesthesia, Electrophysiology

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What is DNB in Cardiothoracic Surgery?

The DNB in Cardiothoracic Surgery is a 6-year program focused on the surgical treatment of heart, lung, and chest conditions. It combines general surgery with specialised training in cardiac and thoracic surgery.

With a solid DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage, this field promises both intellectual satisfaction and a rewarding career.

Key aspects covered in it are:

Integrated Training: Combines general surgery with cardiac and thoracic surgery.

Scope: Covers heart, lung, and chest cavity surgeries.

Subspecialties: Includes adult and congenital cardiac surgery, and thoracic surgery focused on the mediastinal cavity.

Vascular Exposure: Some programs offer exposure to vascular surgery.

Rigorous Training: Emphasises hands-on skills and clinical techniques.

Assessment: Continuous evaluation to meet NBE standards.

Career Options: Graduates can work in hospitals, teach, or start private practice.

Eligibility Criteria- DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery 

The admissions process is competitive, and understanding the DNB cardiothoracic surgery eligibility will help you prepare accordingly.

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Educational Qualifications

MBBS degree from a recognised institution with a minimum of 1-year internship.

Entrance Examination

National-level exam assessing knowledge of medicine, surgery, and medical ethics. High scores are crucial.

Availability of Seats

Limited seats; availability varies annually based on institutions and demand.

Admission Process

Merit-based counselling after clearing the entrance exam.

Age Limit

No specific upper age limit, but may vary across institutions and according to NBE rules.

Understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing accordingly will increase your chances of securing admission into this highly competitive and rewarding field of DNB cardiothoracic surgery.

Admission Process for DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery

Understanding the various stages of the admission procedure will help you navigate the process smoothly and increase your chances of securing a seat. Here's a detailed look at the steps involved.

Step 1: Entrance Examination

The first stage in the DNB cardiothoracic surgery admission process is the entrance examination. This exam is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) and assesses your knowledge of medical concepts, surgical skills, and understanding of human anatomy. 

It's a highly competitive exam, with the DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage being an important factor in securing a place in the program. A strong score is essential, particularly when applying for top medical institutions.

Step 2: Counselling Process

Once you've successfully cleared the entrance exam, the next stage is the merit-based counselling. Based on your entrance exam scores, candidates are allotted available seats. DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats are limited, particularly in renowned hospitals and medical colleges, so the counselling process is crucial for securing your place. 

The counselling process takes into account not just your exam performance, but also any preferences you may have for specific institutions.

Step 3: Document Verification

Following the allotment of seats, you will need to complete the document verification process. During this stage, you will need to provide your educational qualifications, internship completion certificate, identity proof, and other necessary documents as specified by the institution.

Step 4: Fee Payment

Once your seat is confirmed, you will be required to pay the program fees. The DNB cardiothoracic surgery fee structure can vary from institution to institution, with fees typically ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹6.5 lakhs. Be sure to review the fee structure ahead of time and make the necessary arrangements to meet the financial requirements.

Step 5: Final Admission

After completing the document verification and fee payment, you will receive your final admission confirmation. From here, you can start preparing for the rigorous training ahead.

Tips for Successful Admission

  • Focus on scoring well in the entrance exam, as the DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage can influence your chances of securing a seat.
  • Understand the DNB cardiothoracic surgery eligibility criteria thoroughly to avoid last-minute surprises.
  • Stay informed about the number of DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats available each year, especially in top colleges.

By following these steps and preparing well in advance, you can increase your chances of securing a place in one of the most prestigious medical programs, DNB cardiothoracic surgery.

Thinking about your options after an MBBS? Read this detailed guide that explains the differences between an MD and a DM to help you make the right choice for your career.

What Students Are Discussing About DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery in 2025?

The conversation around DNB cardiothoracic surgery is buzzing on Reddit, with students sharing their concerns about the future of the field and their personal experiences. 

Let's look at two key discussions that shed light on the current trends and provide valuable insights for aspiring cardiothoracic surgeons.

A Reddit User Shared

"I've been hearing the same about CTVS since 2015 at least. And recently hearing about Neurosurgery as well. By 2026, CTVS will also bifurcate into MCh Cardiac & MCh Thoracic Surgery, too." 

Insights: Students' concern reflects the evolving nature of DNB cardiothoracic surgery, with emerging fields like interventional cardiology reshaping the role of traditional surgery. However, DNB cardiothoracic surgery remains highly valuable for those wanting to specialise in complex surgeries.

Also, another Reddit User Shared

"I'm 29/M. Completed my DNB general medicine this year. This is my first attempt at NEET SS. Haven't prepared much this year. Got 3.2k rank. Pretty much, I'm sure of taking cardio either this year or next year."

Insights: Deciding between DNB cardiothoracic surgery and DM cardiology depends on your career focus. While DNB cardiothoracic surgery offers surgical expertise, DM cardiology dives deeper into cardiology. Both paths have excellent prospects, but your choice should align with your long-term goals.

What Do We Infer From the Above Cases?

  • DNB cardiothoracic surgery is evolving with new challenges, such as the rise of interventional cardiology and the bifurcation of specialities.
  • Despite concerns, DNB cardiothoracic surgery remains a crucial qualification for those pursuing expertise in heart and lung surgeries.
  • The decision between DNB cardiothoracic surgery and DM cardiology depends on personal interests, whether focusing on surgical procedures or deeper cardiology expertise.
  • The demand for skilled cardiothoracic surgeons is expected to remain high, especially in emergency procedures and hands-on roles.

Tip: When deciding between DNB cardiothoracic surgery and other specialities, make sure to consider your preferred career path, the kind of training environment you want, and how hands-on you wish to be in the field.

State-wise DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery Seats

Here's an overview of DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats across various states in India.

State

Total Colleges

Total Seats

Delhi

7

12

Tamil Nadu

6

11

Karnataka

4

10

Telangana

4

5

West Bengal

3

4

Andhra Pradesh

2

4

Uttar Pradesh

3

4

Maharashtra

2

3

Punjab

1

3

Rajasthan

2

2

Gujarat

1

0

Understanding where these seats are allocated and knowing the competition involved will help you plan your admissions process more effectively.

DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery Syllabus

The DNB cardiothoracic surgery syllabus covers a wide range of topics essential for becoming a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon. This structured curriculum ensures that candidates are well-equipped to handle complex surgeries and make informed decisions during critical situations.

Part 1

Part 2

Applied Anatomy

Cardiac Surgery

Applied Physiology

General Thoracic Surgery

Applied Pathology

Intercostal Drainage (ICD)

Applied Microbiology

Vascular Surgery

Pharmacology

Thoracic Endoscopies (Bronchoscopy - rigid and fibre optic, Oesophagoscopy - rigid and fibre optic, Mediastinoscopy)

Cardiovascular Engineering

Pacing and Electrophysiology

Basics of General Surgery

Cardiothoracic Anesthesia

Critical Care Medicine

Critical Care Management

Cardiology - Noninvasive (ECG, Echocardiography)

Allied Specialities

Cardiology - Invasive (Cardiac Catheterisation and Angiography)

Practical Experience: Cardiac surgery, Thoracic surgery, Intercostal drainage, Vascular surgery, Peripheral artery and venous surgeries, VATS, Thoracic endoscopies, Pacing & electrophysiology, Cardiac catheterisation & angiography

 

Research Methodology


By the time you complete your training, you'll be ready to enter the workforce with a strong foundation, a high DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage, and the confidence to handle complex cases, making you a highly sought-after professional in the medical community.

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DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery Fees Structure and Details

Below is an overview of the DNB cardiothoracic surgery fee structure:

Type of College

Fee (Minimum - Maximum)

Government Colleges

Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 3 lakhs

Private Colleges

Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 6.5 lakhs

While the upfront cost may be high, the long-term benefits in terms of salary and career opportunities make this a sound investment for those committed to building a career in cardiothoracic surgery.

Expected Salary After DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery

One of the most appealing aspects of pursuing DNB cardiothoracic surgery is the lucrative salary potential. As a specialised field in medicine, cardiothoracic surgeons are compensated well for their expertise in treating complex heart and lung conditions. 

In terms of salary details provided below, it may vary due to the location of the job, job profile, candidate, and many other factors:

Job Profile

Salary (annually)

Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Up to Rs. 30 lakhs p.a. (approx.)

Cardiac Surgeon

Up to Rs. 29 lakhs p.a. (approx.)

Lecturer

Up to Rs. 5.5 to Rs. 8.9 lakhs p.a. (approx.)

The DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary is highly competitive, reflecting the level of expertise and responsibility required for this role. 

Scope of DNB Cardio Thoracic Surgery

The scope of DNB cardiothoracic surgery is extensive, with numerous opportunities available for qualified professionals in India and internationally. As heart and lung diseases continue to be a significant concern, the demand for skilled cardiothoracic surgeons remains high, offering a wide range of career prospects.

1. Growing Demand for Cardiothoracic Surgeons

Hospitals, healthcare centres, and medical institutions are continually looking for qualified professionals to perform heart and lung surgeries. This growing demand makes DNB cardiothoracic surgery a valuable qualification, providing an edge in a competitive job market.

2. Opportunities in Private and Government Sectors

Graduates of cardiothoracic surgery courses in India with DNB have the flexibility to work in both private and government sectors. Leading private hospitals, such as Apollo, Max Healthcare, and Fortis, recruit highly qualified cardiothoracic surgeons to cater to the growing need for heart and lung surgeries. 

3. International Career Prospects

The scope of DNB cardiothoracic surgery is not limited to India. With the qualification recognised globally, qualified surgeons can explore career opportunities abroad. Countries like the US, the UK, and Canada are always in need of skilled cardiothoracic surgeons, offering attractive compensation packages and exposure to advanced medical practices.

4. Specialisations and Career Growth

One of the key benefits of pursuing DNB cardiothoracic surgery is the opportunity to specialise in various subfields, such as cardiac surgery, thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. These specialisations provide a path for career growth and higher earning potential.

5. Research and Academic Opportunities

In addition to clinical practice, there are substantial opportunities in research and academia for those who wish to contribute to advancements in cardiothoracic surgery. As a DNB cardiothoracic surgery graduate, you may have the chance to engage in research related to heart disease, lung disorders, and surgical innovations. 

Exploring career paths in medicine can be tough, which is why you need to check this guide on DM Cardiology that covers eligibility, top colleges, and career prospects in detail.

Pursuing DNB cardiothoracic surgery offers an exciting and rewarding career with numerous opportunities for growth, both in India and internationally. With the increasing demand for skilled cardiothoracic surgeons, this qualification opens doors to top hospitals and prestigious roles in the medical field. 

While DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats are limited and competition is high, securing a place in this program ensures a promising future with an attractive DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary. Propelld can help fund your education and support you on your journey to your dream college. Propelld provides collateral‑free education loans of up to ₹50 lakhs, quick digital approval (often within 7 days), and flexible repayment plans including moratorium options

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FAQs Related to DNB Cardiothoracic Surgery

What is the difference between DNB and MD doctors?

DNB cardiothoracic surgery is a diploma awarded by the National Board of Examinations after completing specialised training, while MD is a postgraduate degree typically offered by universities. Both have equal recognition but vary in terms of training structure and assessment.

What are the disadvantages of DNB?

One disadvantage of DNB is that it's sometimes considered less widely recognised than MD in certain specialities. Additionally, DNB cardiothoracic surgery graduates might face higher competition for prestigious roles due to the limited number of DNB cardiothoracic surgery seats.

Which degree is the highest in medicine?

The highest degree in medicine is typically a Doctorate or a DM (Doctor of Medicine), which provides further specialisation in areas like cardiology. DNB cardiothoracic surgery is also highly respected, especially in the surgical field.

Is DNB very difficult to pass?

Yes, DNB cardiothoracic surgery can be challenging due to its demanding syllabus, long learning curve, and competitive DNB cardiothoracic surgery pass percentage. Preparation for both the entrance exam and practical exams requires substantial dedication.

Which branches are good for DNB?

Popular branches for DNB include cardiothoracic surgery, orthopaedics, general surgery, and anaesthesia. DNB cardiothoracic surgery is especially valuable for those interested in complex heart and lung procedures.

Which countries recognise DNB?

Countries like the US, the UK, Canada, and several others recognise DNB cardiothoracic surgery, making it a valuable qualification for pursuing global career opportunities.

Is doing a 6-year DNB cardiothoracic surgery worth it?

Yes, pursuing DNB cardiothoracic surgery is worth it for those passionate about heart and lung surgeries. The program offers extensive hands-on experience, and the growing demand for skilled cardiothoracic surgeons ensures a rewarding career with a competitive DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary.

Is it wise to take DNB cardiac surgery in the present scenario?

Considering the increasing demand for DNB cardiothoracic surgery professionals, pursuing DNB cardiac surgery is a wise decision, especially for those seeking to work in high-demand surgical fields and aiming for a rewarding career with growth opportunities.

Which is harder, general surgery or cardiothoracic surgery?

Cardiothoracic surgery is generally considered more challenging than general surgery due to the complexity and precision required for heart and lung surgeries. The learning curve in DNB cardiothoracic surgery can be steep, but it offers immense intellectual satisfaction.

Which is better, a CTVS post-MS (general surgery) or CTVS (a DNB 6-year course)?

A DNB 6-year course in cardiothoracic surgery provides comprehensive surgical training with a more focused approach, while a post-MS CTV may offer a broader surgical perspective. The choice depends on career goals, but the 6-year DNB cardiothoracic surgery program is ideal for those specifically aiming for expertise in heart and lung surgeries.

Saw a cardiologist struggling for a job. Is this the future of Indian doctors?

While job market fluctuations affect various medical fields, DNB cardiothoracic surgery remains a high-demand speciality with numerous opportunities, especially in private hospitals and international settings, offering excellent career prospects despite market challenges.

Are there perks to being a cardiologist rather than a cardiothoracic surgeon?

Both professions offer rewarding careers, but DNB cardiothoracic surgery typically provides a broader scope of hands-on procedures, including surgery, whereas cardiologists focus more on diagnosis and non-surgical treatments. The DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary is also generally higher due to the complexity of surgical tasks.

What is the average salary after DNB cardiothoracic surgery?

The average DNB cardiothoracic surgery salary ranges from ₹15 lakhs per annum, but it can rise to ₹30 lakhs or more depending on experience and whether you work in private practice or top-tier hospitals.

Victor Senapaty
Co Founder, Propelld
Check out full profile

Victor Senapaty is the Co-Founder of Propelld, a pioneering fintech platform revolutionizing education financing in India. An IIT Madras and FMS Delhi alumnus, Victor brings a rare blend of investment banking expertise, startup leadership, and financial innovation to the education lending space.

He is a serial entrepreneur with ventures spanning edtech, hyperlocal commerce, and consumer experiences, and an ex-Deutsche Bank investment banker with deep expertise in financial modeling, valuation, and strategic growth. At Propelld, Victor focuses on unlocking financial access for students by creating future-potential-based lending models, helping thousands pursue higher education without traditional credit barriers.

A National Maths Olympiad gold medalist, FRM Level 1 certified professional, an avid traveler and football enthusiast, Victor is passionate about building products that meaningfully impact lives and transform access to education in India.

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Victor Senapaty
Co Founder, Propelld
Check out full profile

Victor Senapaty is the Co-Founder of Propelld, a pioneering fintech platform revolutionizing education financing in India. An IIT Madras and FMS Delhi alumnus, Victor brings a rare blend of investment banking expertise, startup leadership, and financial innovation to the education lending space.

He is a serial entrepreneur with ventures spanning edtech, hyperlocal commerce, and consumer experiences, and an ex-Deutsche Bank investment banker with deep expertise in financial modeling, valuation, and strategic growth. At Propelld, Victor focuses on unlocking financial access for students by creating future-potential-based lending models, helping thousands pursue higher education without traditional credit barriers.

A National Maths Olympiad gold medalist, FRM Level 1 certified professional, an avid traveler and football enthusiast, Victor is passionate about building products that meaningfully impact lives and transform access to education in India.

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