Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents Self-perceived Competency Regarding Female Pelvic Medicine and Surgery: An Internet-based Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: The aim of our study was to assess factors associated with residents’ perceived competency regarding female pelvic medicine and reconstruction surgery (FPMRS).
 Methods: We conducted an Internet-based cross-sectional survey. Obstetrics and gynecology residents’ self-perceived competence in clinical skills for management of pelvic floor disorders were questioned. Competency in different aspects was analyzed concerning the availability of fellowship-trained professor, rotation, and fellowship training program.
 Results: 1168 residents of four levels of residency participated in this study. 760 (65.06 %) of residents were not trained by a fellowship-trained attendant. Of 409 (35.01%) responders who were trained by board-certified fellowship, 334 had FPMRS rotation in their residency program. Senior residents were significantly more confident than residents in the first and second years. 695 (59.50 %) of residents reported participating in the pelvic floor surgeries; however, only 15.3 % were served as primary surgeons. Where pelvic floor education had been provided by a fellowship-trained attendant, more perceived competency was evident in all fields of clinical skills except performance as primary surgeon and management of emergency cases. Among residents trained by board-certified FPMRS attendants, there were no significant differences regarding FPMRS rotation or fellowship training programs. 88.69 % of residents declared that a comprehensive course in the field of FPMRS is needed in the residency curriculum.
 Conclusion: This study demonstrates that being trained by board-certified FPMRS attendants has significant effect on residents’ self-perceived competency. Residency education was not compromised by fellowship training program.