In recognition of Black History Month, we recently spoke with STS member and surgical leader Leah Backhus, MD, recipient of the 2023 Extraordinary Women of Cardiothoracic Surgery Award. Dr. Backhus is an associate professor of cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine, specializing in thoracic oncology and minimally invasive techniques.
As we honor Black History Month, is there a historical figure or event that particularly resonates with you, and how has it shaped your perspective as a surgeon?
I have always been inspired by the story of Dr. Charles Drew. Of course, he was a medical pioneer, but his work was also far-reaching in establishing safe practices for blood donation. And yet, the time in which he lived required him to hold steadfast to his convictions of equality, ultimately leading to his resignation from the American Red Cross.
What progress have you seen in diversity and inclusion within cardiothoracic surgery, and what steps are still needed to ensure equitable opportunities?
We have made strides in terms of gender representation; however, it will take a century to achieve gender equity at the current pace. Most of these strides have been in thoracic surgery, with comparatively fewer women in cardiac, congenital, and transplant surgery. We can do better.
Regarding race/ethnic representation, we are still lagging, with some minor strides in certain areas and stagnation in others. We need better visibility and pipeline efforts to encourage those who may not picture themselves in the roles of CT surgeons they see in front of them. Representation matters.
We also need to address the elephant in the room regarding salary parity (or disparity), as outlined in both last year’s and this year’s STS Practice Surveys.
What advice would you give to young Black students considering a career in CT surgery?
Mentorship is critical. Find a mentor. Find several. Remember that your mentor need not look like you; they just have to believe in you and be willing to support you. This is not easy, so you need a guide. Do not attempt this alone. Also, do not discredit your peer mentors and those just one level above you. They have valuable insights that are fresh and ready for the taking.
What inspired you to pursue a career in cardiothoracic surgery?
I came from a general surgery program with a long history of stimulating interest in CT surgery. In contrast to many general surgery programs today, which have lots of competing exposures and services, our exposure to CT surgery was consistent and intense. The faculty were amazing surgeons and teachers. The anatomy was incredibly interesting (I likened the chest to a “treasure chest” because there is something for everyone in there). And despite dealing with very complex patients and surgeries, the faculty were even-keeled and handled the high-stakes operations and patient care with poise.
Who has been a key mentor or role model in your professional journey, and how did they influence you?
There are literally too many to name. One of my earliest mentors was Ross Bremner, who was the CT Surgery fellow when I was an intern. I later joined his lab after he was hired as faculty, and that exposure and experience helped hone my interest as well as my marketability as an applicant for a traditional fellowship slot.
Other senior mentors have included Bob Higgins and Doug Wood, who have taught me how to be a good and fair leader—both within one's own academic institution and on the national and international stages of CT Surgery.
I also have peer mentors: Thomas Varghese, David Cooke, and Jessica Donington, to name a few. But there are countless more!