Dr. Peter Kent Smith, MD, Chief of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at Duke University Medical Center, is a heart surgeon who specializes in coronary artery bypass, grafting, and valve replacement. This collection contains 2 oral history interviews conducted on July 22, 1994 and January 3, 1996 by Dr. James Gifford. Both interviews are included in the Dr. David Sabiston Oral History Project. In the July 22, 1994 interview Smith discusses his background in research and the operation of his laboratory. In the January 3, 1996 interview Smith discusses his career as a thoracic surgeon, and particularly his work as Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery.
This oral history interview was conducted with Dr. Peter K. Smith on July 22, 1994 by Dr. James Gifford. It is included in the Dr. David Sabiston Oral History Project.
Duration: 00:45:00
Smith discusses his personal background; how he came to Duke; his research interests; current research; funding for his laboratory; how he manages his commitments to his laboratory, clinical practice, and administrative duties; the structure of the Residency Program; working with Sabiston; the relationships between residents and faculty; Smith's experiences as a resident; the personal cost of residency; and how the 2 years of research, which is part of Duke Surgical Training, differentiates the program from all others.