Exposure to and training in the control of major intraoperative haemorrhage: a survey of surgical trainees

Rj Brown,R Praseedom,Ml Nicholson,Sa Hosgood

doi:10.1308/rcsbull.2021.9

Abstract

Recent changes in surgical training coupled with increased specialisation of surgeons have led to reduced exposure for trainees to general and emergency surgery. We conducted a survey of all current general surgical trainees in the East of England to ascertain levels of experience and extent of training in dealing with major intra-operative haemorrhage during surgery. The findings confirmed that trainees lack exposure to and training in this area. Respondents were keen to see improvements in the existing training pathway and the majority were supportive of the establishment of a live large animal course in the UK as part of the solution.

Highlights

Changes in surgical training coupled with increased specialisation of surgeons have led to reduced exposure for trainees to general and emergency surgery, as highlighted in a 2015 Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) report.[1]
The trainee’s technical, mental and stress management skills are tested in a theatre environment, which plays an important role in ensuring competency in dealing with complex surgical procedures and unforeseen events such as the control of major haemorrhage.[6,7]
A survey was conducted of all general surgical trainees (ST3–ST8) in the East of England region to ascertain levels of experience of and extent of training in dealing with major intraoperative haemorrhage

Summary

Introduction

Changes in surgical training coupled with increased specialisation of surgeons have led to reduced exposure for trainees to general and emergency surgery, as highlighted in a 2015 Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) report.[1]. The trainee’s technical, mental and stress management skills are tested in a theatre environment, which plays an important role in ensuring competency in dealing with complex surgical procedures and unforeseen events such as the control of major haemorrhage.[6,7]. Within this context, a survey was conducted of all general surgical trainees (ST3–ST8) in the East of England region to ascertain levels of experience of and extent of training in dealing with major intraoperative haemorrhage.

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion