40. An Update on the Independent Plastic Surgery Match: Recent Trends and Predictors of Successful Match (2019-2022)

Abstract

Background: The number of independent plastic surgery residency programs and applicants have consistently declined over the past decade. A prior study by the authors demonstrated trends and predictors associated with increased match success up until 2018. The purpose of this study was to analyze recent match trends and predictors to aid prospective applicants. Methods: After approval from the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons, the San Francisco Match provided data for the independent match (2019-2022). Applicant variables were analyzed to determine correlation with a successful match. Outcomes were compared between candidates utilizing chi square tests, t-tests, univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. Results: 428 applicants participated in the independent plastic surgery match from 2019 to 2022, of whom 243 matched. In this period, the number of independent plastic surgery residency programs and positions decreased from 40 to 36 (10%), and 63 to 57 (9.5%), respectively. The number of applicants increased from 90 in 2019 to 124 in 2022 (37.8%), and match rate decreased from 82% to 56%. Osteopathic and international medical graduates increased from 9 to 21 (133%), and 20 to 28 (40%) respectively. A successful match was associated with US medical school graduates, prerequisite training at a university-affiliated general surgery program, greater number of interviews (13 ± 6 vs. 3 ± 3), higher USMLE step 1/2 scores, and AOA status (p<0.05). By multivariate regression, number of interviews completed (odd ratio [OR] 1.40 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23-1.59 p <0.001) and allopathic medical school background (OR 3.65 95% CI 1.1 – 12 p = 0.003) were predictive of a successful match. Conclusion: Despite residency review committee’s ongoing support of the independent plastic surgery track, program participation during the period examined has decreased while applicant interest increased, likely contributing to a decreased match rate. Although more interviews and allopathic medical school background correlate with a successful match, continued support for the independent plastic surgery track is encouraged.