Is there still a role for the adult general surgeon in general paediatric surgery within a District General Hospital setting? National questionnaire amongst adult general surgical trainees. (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hassan, Sarah; Keeler, Barrie; Lakhoo, Kokila
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery. Volume 56(2018)
• Page Start: 57
• Page End: 60
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2018.06.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-9191

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: In recent years there has been a trend towards centralisation of services for general paediatric surgery in the United Kingdom. Fewer District General Hospitals supply provision of paediatric surgery, placing a strain on Specialist Centres. The cause behind the decline is unclear but lack of interest from general surgical trainees may be a contributing factor. A survey was conducted across current higher surgical trainees to review this. Materials and methods: A short online survey (Typeform) was sent nationally to higher general surgical trainees. The results were analysed using SPSS Version 21. Results: 121 trainees responded to the survey. Only 29% trainees expressed an interest in pursuing general paediatric surgery as part of their future chosen specialty. The main concerns of trainees in regards to paediatric surgery was a limited training time, perception that a paediatric consultant would be unwilling to train a general surgical trainee, and a concern that ISCP requirements were unattainable in six months. There was no significant difference in opinion between those who had/not completed a paediatric surgical placement. Conclusion: There is a growing disinterest of general surgical trainees to pursue paediatric surgery within their future chosen specialty. This is resulting in fewer consultants being qualified to provide the service within a District General Hospital. Trainees often have negative preconceived ideas about the specialty, which may be modified by a positive experience within the specialty. Highlights: The questionnaire illustrates an increasing disproportion between demand and supply for general paediatric surgery in a District General Hospital. There is a difference in opinion amongst trainees who have/not had experience of paediatric surgery but this is not statistically significant. The main trainee concerns are lack of paediatric consultant wish to train a general surgeon, time out of general surgery and ISCP requirements.