IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EVALUATION TO IMPROVE RESIDENT SURGICAL SKILLS

Abstract

Abstract INTRODUCTION A guided and structured learning process with an evaluation method is essential for resident training. A survey carried out in our department showed that the implementation of an objective evaluation of surgical skills is of great interest to residents. MATERIAL AND METHODS During 2020, a structured and objective evaluation of elemental procedures was implemented for first, third and fifth-year general surgery residents. The preoperative briefing is carried out to discuss the clinical case and plan the surgery. Then, the resident performs the surgical intervention, assisted by an expert surgeon who guides him according to his level and the difficulties encountered. A structured evaluation is carried out, using The American Board of Surgery model Operative Performance Rating System (OPRS). With the postoperative debriefing, the resident’s strengths and weaknesses are analyzed and self-reflected with the recording. RESULTS Eleven evaluations have been performed: 3 laparoscopic appendectomies (R1), 2 laparoscopic cholecystectomies (R3) and 3 laparoscopic sigmoidectomies (R5). In 3 of them, it was performed by 2 different evaluators (live and recorded surgery). Patient safety was not compromised. Participants indicated a high level of satisfaction and greater motivation in surgical learning. CONCLUSION Implementing this evaluation method in the current training programme of General and Digestive Surgery Residency is feasible and may be beneficial for the controlled development of their surgical skills.