scholarly journals Visuospatial and Technical Ability in the Selection and Assessment of Higher Surgical Trainees in the London Deanery

2007 ◽  
Vol 89 (6) ◽  
pp. 591-595 ◽  
Author(s):  
P Tansley ◽  
S Kakar ◽  
S Withey ◽  
P Butler
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Practical Skills ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Surgical Department ◽  
Technical Ability ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Competency Based ◽  
Higher Surgical Training ◽  
Training Programmes ◽  
Selection And Assessment

INTRODUCTION Despite awareness of the limitations of current selection and competency assessments, there is little consensus and alternatives have not been readily accepted. Essential surgical skills include visuospatial and technical ability. The aim of this study was to survey current methods of higher surgical trainee selection and assessment. We suggest ways to improve the process. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine surgical training programmes in the London deanery were surveyed through questionnaires to programme directors, existing trainees and examination of deanery publications. RESULTS Testing of visuospatial and technical ability was piloted at selection only in a single general surgical department. Practical skills were assessed in 3/9 (33%) specialties (ENT, plastic and general surgery). Once selected, no specialty tested visuospatial and technical ability. Practical skills were tested in only 1/9 (11%) specialties (plastic surgery). The remaining 8/9 (89%) were ‘assessed’ by interview. CONCLUSIONS Lack of visuospatial and technical ability assessment was identified at selection and during higher surgical training. Airlines have long recognised early identification of these qualities as critical for efficient training. There is a need for more objective methods in this area prior to selection as time to assess surgical trainees during long apprenticeships is no longer available. We advocate a suitably validated competency-based model during and at completion of training.

Consultant Attitudes to 'St' Higher Surgical Trainees

2012 ◽  
Vol 94 (10) ◽  
pp. 1-334
Author(s):  
A Rashid ◽  
N Al-Hadithy ◽  
D Rossouw ◽  
S Mellor
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Selection Process ◽  
Career Progression ◽  
Junior Doctors ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Medical Careers ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Higher Surgical Training ◽  
Training Programmes ◽  
Training Opportunities

The Modernising Medical Careers 2005 report on SHO training concluded that there was a need to minimise the SHO years that had, until then, involved short-term posts, poor training opportunities and indifferent career progression. In response to this, 'run-through training' was introduced in August 2007. However, numerous problems were highlighted with this system, including lack of confidence in the selection process, concern about how to counsel failing trainees, concerns about staffing the wards at the junior level if all trainees were to have realistic anticipation of promotion and difficulty reconfiguring hospital services to support high-quality training. Consequently, run-through training was uncoupled at CT2 and ST3, reverting back to a system of competitive entry into higher surgical training. Nevertheless, junior doctors in new core training posts could still potentially progress to higher surgical training programmes with as little as nine months of experience in their chosen subspecialty.

scholarly journals 962 COVID-19 And ST3 National Selection in Surgery: What Happens to Core Surgical Trainees When We Remove the Face-to-Face Interview?

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
D Leiberman ◽  
M Trivedy ◽  
A Kausar
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Freedom Of Information ◽  
Progression Rate ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Higher Surgical Training ◽  
National Selection ◽  
The Uk ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Introduction The 2020 ST3 recruitment year for Higher Surgical Training (HST) did not have a face-to-face interview due to COVID-19. Candidates were solely scored on portfolio self-assessment alone. We have assessed the impact on Core Surgical Trainee progression into ST3 by comparing the 2020 recruitment year with 2019. Method Total numbers of applicants to ST3 for all 7 surgical sub-specialties that recruit at ST3 level were obtained via Freedom of Information requests from Health Education England (HEE). These were sorted by those who were in CST, had completed CST or had an alternative equivalence certificate. Results Overall applicant numbers were up in 2020, mainly from an increase in applicants with a Certificate of Readiness to Enter Higher Surgical Training. Overall ST3 positions appointed to were down. CST progression rate was down slightly, with an increase in appointees >10 years since graduation. Conclusions The 2020 recruitment year for ST3 HST had a higher number of applicants and lower places available than 2019. The majority of the extra applicants were trainees who have not completed CST in the UK. CST progression rate to HST was down slightly. The lack of face-to-face interview may benefit some candidates graduating >10 years ago.

scholarly journals P38 COVID-19 impact on Surgical Training And Recovery Planning (COVID-STAR) Survey

BJS Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Joshua Clements
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Healthcare Delivery ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Surgical Specialty ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Training Time ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
And Training

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in dynamic changes to healthcare delivery. Surgery as a specialty has been significantly affected and with that the delivery of surgical training. Method This national, collaborative, cross sectional study comprising 13 surgical trainee associations distributed a pan surgical specialty survey on the COVID-19 impact on surgical training over a 4-week period (11th May - 8th June 2020). The survey was voluntary and open to medical students and surgical trainees of all specialties and training grades. All aspects of training were qualitatively assessed. This study was reported according to STROBE guidelines. Results 810 completed responses were analysed. (M401: F 390) with representation from all deaneries and training grades. 41% of respondents (n = 301) were redeployed with 74% (n = 223) redeployed > 4 weeks. Complete loss of training was reported in elective operating (69.5% n = 474), outpatient activity (67.3%, n = 457), Elective endoscopy (69.5% n = 246) with > 50% reduction in training time reported in emergency operating (48%, n = 326) and completion of work-based assessments (WBA) (46%, n = 309). 81% (n = 551) reported course cancellations and departmental and regional teaching programmes were cancelled without rescheduling in 58% and 60% of cases respectively. A perceived lack of Elective operative exposure and completions of WBA’s were the primary reported factor affecting potential training progression. Overall, > 50% of trainees (n = 377) felt they would not meet the competencies required for that training period. Conclusion This study has demonstrated a perceived negative impact on numerous aspects of surgical training affecting all training specialties and grades.

scholarly journals 982 Higher General Surgical Trainee preferences for Annual Review of Competency Progression during COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_6) ◽  
Author(s):  
K Khan ◽  
G Torpiano ◽  
N Galbraith ◽  
M McLellan ◽  
A Lannigan
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Annual Review ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Training Groups ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Aim The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption in surgical training. We aim to explore the preferences of higher general surgical trainees for Annual Review of Competency Progression (ARCP) also compare the responses across different training grades. Method All higher general surgical trainee in a single deanery were invited to participate in an online voluntary anonymous survey. The respondents were divided in two groups: junior (ST3-ST5) and senior higher surgical trainees (ST6-ST8) and responses compared. Results Sixty-four of 88 trainees responded. Thirty-three (51.6%) were ST3–ST5, 24 (37.5%) were ST6–ST8 and 7 (10.9%) were out-of-training. More trainees in ST3–ST5 group preferred to defer the next rotation for 12 months (18.2% vs 0%, p = 0.034), repeat current sub-specialty (33.3% vs 4.2%, p = 0.009), or add 12 months to training and delay predicted CCT date by 12 months (18.2% vs 0%, p = 0.034). Most trainees in both groups preferred the option of prolonging training should be offered to all trainees with an option to decline extension if ARCP competencies met (66.7% vs 50.0%, p = 0.276). Conclusions The preference for ARCP and length of training was different between two training groups, hence the need of trainees should be considered by training committees when addressing the impact of COVID-19.

Incentivising practice with take-home laparoscopic simulators in two UK Core Surgical Training programmes

2016 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 112-117 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura G Nicol ◽  
Kenneth G Walker ◽  
Jennifer Cleland ◽  
Roland Partridge ◽  
Susan J Moug
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
First Year ◽  
Laparoscopic Skills ◽  
Performance Improvements ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Confounding Variables ◽  
Simulation Based ◽  
Higher Cognitive Functions ◽  
Training Programmes ◽  
Training Modules

IntroductionPractice using simulators has been validated as a mean for surgical trainees to improve basic laparoscopic skills and free their attention for higher cognitive functions. However, mere provision of equipment does not result in frequent practice. This study assesses one approach to incentivising practice within core surgical training programmes and leads to further recommendations.Methods30 core surgical trainees (CST) starting laparoscopic-based specialties were recruited from East and West of Scotland CST programmes and given take-home laparoscopic simulators, with six training modules. Attainment of target metric scores generated an eCertificate, to be rewarded by progression in the live theatre. Questionnaires assessed confounding variables and explored CSTs’ anxieties about laparoscopy.Results27 trainees (90%) agreed to participate (mean age 28 years, range 24–25; 17 males). 13 CSTs (48%) were in the first year of surgical training. 11 (41%) had no previous simulation experience and 7 (32%) CSTs played video games >3 hours/week. 12 of 27 trainees (44%) completed ≥1 task and 7 completed all (26%).Performances improved in some participants, but overall engagement with the programme was poor. Reasons given included poor internet connectivity, busy rotations and examinations. CSTs who engaged in the study significantly reduced their anxiety (mean 4.96 vs 3.56, p<0.05).ConclusionsThe provision of take-home laparoscopic simulators with accompanying targets did not successfully incentivise CSTs to practise. However, the subgroup who did engage with the project reported performance improvements and significantly reduced anxiety. Proposals to overcome barriers to practising in simulation, including obligatory simulation-based assessments, are discussed.

scholarly journals 171 Surgical Trainee Suggestions to Improve Surgical Training and the Surgical Recruitment Process in View of the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
R Stoner ◽  
S Catania
Keyword(s):  
Academic Achievement ◽  
Medical Education ◽  
Surgical Training ◽  
Recruitment Process ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Educational Activities ◽  
Surgical Trainees

Abstract Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on medical education and surgical training. The experiences of surgical trainees were sought to seek feedback on how both training and recruitment can be adapted to reflect these changes. Method A survey was circulated amongst surgical trainees, to ask what changes to the recruitment process and surgical training they would suggest, in view of the changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Circulated amongst surgical trainees in London. 25 surgical trainees from London responded. Results were analysed and tabulated. Results Suggestions for the recruitment process include an appreciation by the recruitment panel about reduced academic achievement, relaxation of requirements, clinically oriented interviews and extension of training. Suggestions for surgical training include resumption of educational activities, ensured surgical activities and protected theatre time, mentorship and run through training. Conclusions The effects on surgical training due to COVID-19 must be appreciated, and trainees’ experience and feedback should be considered when adapting training and recruitment to this.

scholarly journals Curtailment of Higher Surgical Training in the UK: Likely Effects in Otology

2005 ◽  
Vol 98 (6) ◽  
pp. 259-261 ◽  
Author(s):  
J Ray ◽  
E Hadjihannas ◽  
R M Irving
Keyword(s):  
Skull Base ◽  
Surgical Training ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Training Programme ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Operative Experience ◽  
Higher Surgical Training ◽  
One Year ◽  
The Uk

Higher surgical training in the UK faces a cut of two years. We conducted a questionnaire survey to assess the operative experience of current higher surgical trainees in otological surgery and the likely effect of the proposed reduction from six to four years. 91 (65%) of the 142 higher surgical trainees responded with details of major otological procedures performed (independently or assisting) over one year. In the present six-year scheme a typical trainee performs 72 myringoplasties, 79 mastoidectomies, 7 skull base procedures and 28 other procedures. In the first four years, however, his or her experience is only 39 myringoplasties, 44 mastoidectomies, 4 skull base procedures and 7 others. The large shortfall in experience that might result from shortening of the training programme would need to be met by intensification of the training or institution of accredited otology fellowships. Very similar dilemmas are faced by other surgical specialties.

scholarly journals Experiences in academic publication among ENT trainees in the UK: results from a national survey

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-7
Author(s):  
S Shahidi ◽  
M S Osborne ◽  
G M Jama ◽  
S Bola ◽  
J Murphy
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Full Time ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Current Survey ◽  
Academic Publications ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Higher Surgical Training ◽  
The Uk

Abstract Objective This study aimed to provide an objective means of identifying patterns in academic publication among ENT trainees during their higher surgical training. Method A cross-sectional survey was distributed to ENT higher surgical trainees. Results A total of 153 ENT specialty trainees participated, giving a response rate of 46.5 per cent. Across all years of training, the mean number of first author publications was three and the mean number of non-first author publications was two. For trainees at specialty trainee year 8 level, these figures were nine and five, respectively. Participants with doctoral degrees and those in academic programmes published more papers but the mean difference was only significant for the doctoral subgroup (p < 0.0001). Those with additional undergraduate degrees and those in less than full-time training had an overall lower number of publications. Conclusion Participants in the current survey achieved a higher average number of academic publications than is presently required to successfully complete higher surgical training in ENT. It is hoped that these results act as a guide for trainees planning the research component of their training to ensure that they remain competitive at consultant interview.

scholarly journals Burnout in Surgical Trainees: a Narrative Review of Trends, Contributors, Consequences and Possible Interventions

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Judith Johnson ◽  
Tmam Abdulaziz Al-Ghunaim ◽  
Chandra Shekhar Biyani ◽  
Anthony Montgomery ◽  
Roland Morley ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Well Being ◽  
Work Conditions ◽  
Linear Increase ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Safe Patient Care ◽  
The Past ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
Training Programmes ◽  
The Impact ◽  
And Training

AbstractSurgical disciplines are popular and training places are competitive to obtain, but trainees report higher levels of burnout than either their non-surgical peers or attending or consultant surgeons. In this review, we critically summarise evidence on trends and changes in burnout over the past decade, contributors to surgical trainee burnout, the personal and professional consequences of burnout and consider the evidence for interventions. There is no evidence for a linear increase in burnout levels in surgeons over the past decade but the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has yet to be established and is likely to be significant. Working long hours and experiencing stressful interpersonal interactions at work are associated with higher burnout in trainees but feeling more supported by training programmes and receiving workplace supervision are associated with reduced burnout. Burnout is associated with poorer overall mental and physical well-being in surgical trainees and has also been linked with the delivery of less safe patient care in this group. Useful interventions could include mentorship and improving work conditions, but there is a need for more and higher quality studies.

scholarly journals TP8.2.15 Higher General Surgical Trainee preferences for Annual Review of Competency Progression during COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Khurram Khan ◽  
Giuliana Torpiano ◽  
Norman Galbraith ◽  
Morag McLellan ◽  
Alison Lannigan
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Annual Review ◽  
Surgical Trainee ◽  
Training Groups ◽  
Surgical Trainees ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Aims The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption in surgical training. We aim to explore the preferences of higher general surgical trainees for Annual Review of Competency Progression (ARCP) also compare the responses across different training grades. Methods All higher general surgical trainee in a single deanery were invited to participate in an online voluntary anonymous survey. The respondents were divided in two groups: junior (ST3-ST5) and senior higher surgical trainees (ST6-ST8) and responses compared. Results Sixty-four of 88 trainees responded. Thirty-three (51.6%) were ST3–ST5, 24 (37.5%) were ST6–ST8 and 7 (10.9%) were out-of-training. More trainees in ST3–ST5 group preferred to defer the next rotation for 12 months (18.2% vs 0%, p = 0.034), repeat current sub-specialty (33.3% vs 4.2%, p = 0.009), or add 12 months to training and delay predicted CCT date by 12 months (18.2% vs 0%, p = 0.034). Most trainees in both groups preferred the option of prolonging training should be offered to all trainees with an option to decline extension if ARCP competencies met (66.7% vs 50.0%, p = 0.276). Conclusions The preference for ARCP and length of training was different between two training groups, hence the need of trainees should be considered by training committees when addressing the impact of COVID-19.

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