Gender-based Disparity Exists in the Surgical Experience of Female and Male Urology Residents

Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine if a discrepancy exists in the number and type of cases logged between female and male urology residents. Materials and MethodsACGME case log data from thirteen urology residency programs was collected from 2007 to 2020. The number and type of cases for each resident were recorded and correlated with resident gender and year of graduation. The median, and 25th and 75th percentiles number of cases were calculated by gender, and then compared between female and male residents using Wilcoxon rank sum test. ResultsA total of 473 residents were included in the study, 100 (21%) were female. Female residents completed significantly fewer cases, 2174, compared to male residents, 2273 (p = 0.038). Analysis by case type revealed male residents completed significantly more general urology (526 versus 571, p = 0.011) and oncology cases (261 versus 280, p = 0.026). Additionally, female residents had a 1.3 fold increased odds of logging a case in the assistant role than male residents (95% confidence interval: 1.27 – 1.34, p < 0.001). ConclusionGender-based disparity exists within the urology training of female and male residents. Male residents logged nearly 100 more cases than female residents over four years, with significant differences in certain case subtypes and resident roles. The ACGME works to provide an equal training environment for all residents. Addressing this finding within individual training programs is critical.