Predictors of Successful Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Match: A Texas Star Database Analysis

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine factors predictive of successful matching into vascular surgery residency. This has been studied in other fields, but there is a paucity of data specific to vascular surgery. This information can be helpful in guiding medical students interested in applying for this competitive field. METHODS: The Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency database was used to analyze self-reported demographics, match results, and application variables from 2017 to 2025. Multiple characteristics of matched applicants were compared to unmatched applicants. Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square test, while continuous variables were assessed with nonparametric tests. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify predictors of successful matches. RESULTS: A total of 170 applicants responded to the survey, 138 (81%) of whom matched. Those who matched had higher numbers of programs applied to (55 vs 46, p = 0.031), interviews offered (29 vs 20, p = 0.004), interviews attended (21 vs 13, p < 0.001), received an MD vs DO degree (82.5% vs 25%, p = 0.024), and had a vascular rotation at their home institution (85.0% vs 28.6%, p = 0.006). The number of interviews attended was the only significant predictor of matching (OR = 1.96, p = 0.021), with each additional interview attended increasing the odds of matching by 9%. The number of abstracts, posters, and presentations is independently associated with a higher number of interview offers (β = 0.86, p = 0.01), with each additional abstract, publication, or poster associated with an average increase of 0.86 interview invitations. CONCLUSIONS: This study reinforces the idea that going on more interviews increases the chances of matching. Applicants with a higher number of abstracts, posters, or presentations received more interview invites. Geographic signaling, USMLE exam scores, clerkships with honors, and honorary membership in societies were not associated with a higher chance of matching.