A Fellow's Perspective

The University of Minnesota is a very special place, and my experience as a Thoracic Surgery Fellow has been very valuable. I attribute my career success thus far to the University’s faculty, staff, fellow colleagues in training, and the robust innovative environment.

From the day I arrived, I met surgical faculty that were exceptional, and dedicated to teaching. They recognized my potential even when I didn’t, and challenged me to be a better physician and surgeon. I accepted their challenges and was better for it. I have been an instrumental member of the cardiovascular medical team at the University of Minnesota that achieved a milestone by performing its first pediatric cardiac “hybrid” procedure. In addition to performing over 400 complex cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures during my fellowship, I was on the surgical team that performed the world’s first implantation of a third generation Left Ventricular Assist Device for destination therapy.

What I will always remember most about the University of Minnesota is that I was given every opportunity to be successful, and in the process of my training, I have become a part of cardiac surgery history.

Surgeons considering the University of Minnesota should recognize the great academic and clinical training experience the program affords. Since the time of Drs. C. Walton Lillihei, Clarence Dennis, and Richard Varco, graduates and visitors of our program have been the leaders in every facet of modern cardiac surgery, and that tradition continues today.

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Hassan A. Tetteh, M.D.
Thoracic Surgery Fellow
University of Minnesota
July 2005 - June 2008