Perceived proficiency in endoscopic techniques among senior obstetrics and gynecology residents.

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To assess current training methods in laparoscopic surgery employed in United States obstetrics and gynecology residency programs, level of proficiency in various minimally invasive surgery procedures amongst senior obstetrics and gynecology residents, and ways in which training in minimally invasive surgery can be improved.

DESIGN

Survey (Canadian Task Force classification III).

SETTING

Accredited obstetrics and gynecology programs in the United States.

SUBJECTS

All fourth-year residents in accredited obstetrics and gynecology programs in the United States.

INTERVENTION

Residents received a survey regarding their perceived proficiency performing various laparoscopic procedures and the type of training they received in these techniques.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Responses were received from 133 programs (52.4%) and 295 residents (26.8%). Of these, 67% of residents thought emphasis on laparoscopic surgery training should be increased or greatly increased; 87% thought laparoscopic skills were important for building a successful practice. Formal teaching methods were clearly associated with improved perception of proficiency, and those with higher perception of proficiency expected to perform more laparoscopic procedures after graduation. Residents lacked perceived competency in most advanced laparoscopic procedures.

CONCLUSION

Residents seem to benefit significantly from a formal curriculum in minimally invasive surgery, but they do not feel competent performing some advanced procedures on graduation. In our opinion, more emphasis should be placed on training in laparoscopic surgery in United States obstetrics and gynecology programs.