The current standard of Foot and Ankle Fellowship in the UK.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the current standards of Fellowship training in Foot and Ankle Surgery Fellowship in the UK.

METHODS

Thirteen UK post-FRCS (Tr&Orth) or equivalent Fellows completed a questionnaire detailing their outpatient, surgical, teaching and research experience, along with documenting their supervision and terms of employment.

RESULTS

A Fellow attended a mean of 2.5 (0.5-4) clinics and 3.84 (2-7) theatre sessions per week. 62% of Fellows had independent clinics. The three largest sub-specialty areas experienced were forefoot surgery, mid or/hindfoot arthritis and deformity correction. 82% of Fellows had a regular MDT meeting. All were involved in both teaching and research, but only 64% had timetabled research sessions. All Fellows were satisfied with their experience and would recommended the Fellowship.

CONCLUSIONS

The current standard of a post FRCS (Tr&Orth) Fellowship in Foot & Ankle surgery in the UK has been defined. Further improvement will require all Fellows to be involved in a regular MDT meetings, work in an independent clinic, have guaranteed timetabled research time and a ring fenced study leave budget.