The Impact of Fellowship Affiliation on Urogynecology Training in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency

Abstract

ObjectiveTo compare characteristics of Urogynecology training and number of “Incontinence and Pelvic Floor” cases logged between OB/GYN residencies affiliated and those not affiliated with Urogynecology fellowships. DesignA retrospective descriptive analysis was performed of OB/GYN residency programs, their Urogynecology training, and association with Urogynecology fellowship programs during the 2023-2024 academic year. Program websites for ACGME-accredited OB/GYN residency programs were reviewed to determine availability, timing, and length of Urogynecology training. ACGME data for “Incontinence and Pelvic Floor” cases were analyzed by training year and association with Urogynecology fellowship programs from the 2012-2013 to 2022-2023 academic year. Data was analyzed using SPSS. SettingThis research was conducted at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. ParticipantsNone. InterventionsNone ResultsInformation was obtained for 85.9% of programs. Nearly all (97.0%) had dedicated Urogynecology rotations, and 64.4% had rotations in > 1 year of training. Association with Urogynecology fellowship did not affect the availability of Urogynecology training overall nor the overall number of rotations. Urogynecology rotations occurred most often in the third (PGY3) year of residency, though 43.6% of programs had training for junior (PGY1, PGY2) residents. Residencies with associated Urogynecology fellowships were more likely to have a rotation for PGY2 residents and for junior residents overall. From 2012-2023, the number of “Incontinence and Pelvic Floor” cases declined by 36.3%, with trainees at residencies not affiliated with Urogynecology fellowships logging more cases than those at a fellowship-affiliated residency. ConclusionWhile the majority of OB/GYN residencies have dedicated Urogynecology training, most rotations are for senior residents. Training programs associated with Urogynecology fellowships are more likely to expose junior residents to the field, but their trainees log fewer “Incontinence and Pelvic Floor” cases overall. Earlier exposure may enrich surgical training and help residents prepare for their career, whether in Urogynecology or as a generalist.