Audit 04

Abstract

Aims: Following publication of ‘Guidelines for the Management of Endocrine Disease’ by the British Association of Endocrine Surgeons (BAES) in November 2000, this study aims to determine the number of surgeons within southeast Scotland performing endocrine surgery, their awareness of and adherence to guidelines 1 year after publication. Methods: Questionnaires were circulated in December 2001 to all surgeons performing thyroid surgery, involving questions related to knowledge of guidelines and current practice. Specific key guideline recommendations were compared to practice in two groups of surgeons: (a) those with a copy of the guidelines, and (b) those without. Results of questionnaires were discussed at a regional meeting with an external contributor. Results: Twelve surgeons from eight hospitals performed 196 thyroidectomies. All participated in the study. Six surgeons were members of BAES and had a copy of the guidelines. One nonmember also had a copy. Comparison of management in surgeons with and without national guidelines Conclusions: This study has demonstrated significant variation in surgical practice between those with access to national guidelines and those without. For guidelines to be effective, all surgeons undertaking endocrine surgery must have access to them. Provision of guidelines forms one part of the audit process.