Predictors of Research Productivity in General Surgery Residency and Beyond: A Single Institutional Analysis

Background/Objectives: Research is widely recognized as an essential element of medical education across all levels. This study explores the association between publishing before, during, and after general surgery residency, shedding light on research productivity trends in medical education. By examining a diverse cohort of general surgery residents, the research aims to uncover factors influencing research output at various training levels. Methods: This study analyzed graduates’ Curriculum Vitae from a single institution’s general surgery residency program from 2017–2024. Linear regression models assessed whether variables encompassing total research output (manuscripts, abstracts, posters, and podium presentations) could predict graduates’ research outcomes in the next stage of training. Results: Out of the 38 eligible graduates, 20 submitted their Curriculum Vitae and were included in the study, resulting in a response rate of 52.6%. Total research activity before residency was not found to be predictive of total research activity in residency (t(18) = 1.020, p = 0.322) but was found to be related to total research activity in fellowship (t(10) = 5.399, p < 0.005). Total research activity during residency was not found to be related to fellowship research (t(10) = 0.834, p = 0.424). No sequential correlation was found between undergraduate, medical school, residency, or fellowship publications. Additionally, there was no correlation between first authorship and publication total in the subsequent phase of medical education. Conclusions: Research productivity during medical school does not have predictive value for future research during residency but is found to be predictive of future works in fellowship. These findings suggest that the research emphasis should be strategically managed throughout medical education to sustain long-term academic engagement.