Journal of surgical education
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Certification of completion of training in Trauma and Orthopedic (T&O) surgery in the UK requires the demonstration of operative competence in 12 index procedures, achieved through attaining a level 4 consultant-validated procedure-based assessment (PBA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the trajectory of operative learning curves related to PBA performance with respect to operative caseload and training time. ⋯ Significant learning curve trajectory variance was observed, with discrepancies between indicative operative numbers and the point at which competence was judged achieved. Numbers of index operations to achieve certification of completion of training warrant further examination.
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Diversity is an ill-defined entity in general surgery training. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education recently proposed new common program requirements including verbiage requiring diversity in residency. "Recruiting" for diversity can be challenging within the constraints of geographic preference, type of program, and applicant qualifications. In addition, the Match process adds further uncertainty. We sought to study the self-identified racial/ethnic distribution of general surgery applicants to better ascertain the characteristics of underrepresented minorities (URM) within the general surgery applicant pool. ⋯ URM applicants represented a disproportionately smaller percentage of applicants selected for interview. USMLE Step 1 scores were lower among the URM applicants. Training programs that use discreet USMLE cutoffs are likely excluding URM at a higher rate than their non-URM applicants. Attempts to recruit racially/ethnically diverse trainees should include program-level analysis to determine disparities and a focused strategy to interview applicants who might be overlooked by conventional screening tools.
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Urological training has dramatically changed in recent years. Training durations are shorter and a drive toward consultant led care has reduced trainees experience. Within the UK, approximately 50 registrars annually embark on a 5-year Urology training programme, with variable levels of basic urological experience. ⋯ Our "boot camp" course provides a realistic introduction and foundation to begin Urological practice. Being delivered at the beginning of the training scheme, prior to intensive patient exposure, registrars are in an optimum position to develop their newly acquired knowledge and skills to enhance training and intends to improve patient safety and satisfaction.
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With recent changes to graduate medical education, the balance between resident autonomy and need for supervision impacts the educational and training experience of residents. The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between the confidence of attendings and residents and their different perspectives of perceived educational experience and autonomy in the operating room (OR). We hypothesized that the attending's confidence in the resident would be an important factor in improving the educational experience and resident's autonomy in the OR. ⋯ We have demonstrated a relationship between self-confidence for residents and improved confidence from attendings in residents' capabilities. Based on these findings, we would propose identifying methods to expand resident's awareness of surgical situations and develop attending's confidence in residents.
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Multicenter Study
Educational Value of Surgical Multidisciplinary Team Meetings for Learning Non-Technical Skills - A Pilot Survey of Trainees From Two UK Deaneries.
This prospective survey study aimed to identify trainee surgeons' views on the educational potential of multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings for learning non-technical skills and relevant issues around using MDT meetings as an educational instrument. ⋯ Results indicate consistently positive views from trainees about the educational value of MDT meeting in general and for non-technical skills. Trainee participation, in the form of case-preparation, presentation, and discussion are recommended by respondents.