A 5-Year Analysis of Saudi Arabian Applications to Plastic Surgery Residency Training in Canada.

The goal of this study is to determine factors associated with acceptance into Canadian plastic surgery (PS) residency programs by Saudi Arabian Medical Graduates. This is a cross-sectional study targeting eligible Saudi Arabian applicants to any Canadian PS residency program between 2017 and 2022. Collected data included demographics, education/licensure, electives in Canada, and letter of reference. The 2 main outcomes analyzed were "invited for an interview" and "offered a residency position." We reviewed 52 applications. Of these, 18 applicants received an invitation for an interview and 8 were offered a residency training position. Significant variables associated with receiving an invitation for an interview were completing an elective in Canada ( = .016), having a master's degree ( = .012), and completion of an English test ( = .032). The variables most likely to influence receiving a residency position offer are completion of elective training in Canada ( = .004) and receiving a letter of reference from a Canadian plastic surgeon (95% CI: 0.77 to 76.69: OR: 8.90). Completion of an elective rotation in Canada and obtaining Canadian letters of reference were found to be the most important factors for Saudi Arabian physician applicants to be accepted into a Canadian PS residency program. Other factors that were less critical but improved their chances of being considered include completion of an English assessment test and having a master's degree. This study offers valuable guidance for any Saudi Arabian candidates interested in PS residency in Canada and may aid Canadian programs in their assessment of potential residents.