Are Graduating Ob/Gyn Residents Confident as Independent Gynecologic Surgeons? [11B

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The introduction of new surgical technologies, patient expectations, and the 80-hour work week have changed surgical training for Ob/Gyn residents. The purpose of this study is to explore resident perceived levels of proficiency and understand their training experiences. METHODS: An anonymous online 15-question survey was sent to all program coordinators of accredited United States Ob/Gyn residency programs through the APGO program coordinator listserv. The program coordinators then distributed the survey to their graduating residents. RESULTS: Of the 174 chief residents who initiated the survey, 148 (85%) completed the survey. The majority (78%) planned to pursue general practice. Less than half felt “very confident” performing advanced minimally invasive procedures independently: laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy (50%), total or laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy (42%), laparoscopic myomectomy (11%), robotic-assisted laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy (17%), and robotic-assisted laparoscopic total hysterectomy (25%). In contrast, more participants felt “very confident” performing open subtotal and total hysterectomy, 71% and 76%, respectively. While 80% reported having simulation training, the simulation experience was heterogeneous: laparoscopic box trainers (87%), virtual laparoscopic trainers (43%), animal labs (39%), robotic surgery trainers (70%), vaginal hysterectomy trainers (10%). The majority felt that simulation training improved their surgical skills (85.1%) and wished to participate in more simulation (73%). CONCLUSION: Graduating Ob/Gyn residents are less confident independently performing advanced minimally invasive gynecologic procedures. Although the majority felt that simulation enhanced their skills, the extent of simulation training varied across programs. Future studies should focus on developing a uniform and comprehensive surgical simulation curriculum across all residency programs.