Formal resident training in urogynecology and pelvic floor disorders. A six-year survey.

An observational study reviewed the efficacy of resident training in urogynecology and pelvic floor disorders. After instituting a formal urogynecology rotation consisting of two one-month rotations in the second and third years at a major inner city county hospital, 24 residents were prospectively followed to assess their cognitive and clinical skills, including endoscopic, urodynamic and surgical competence. They were evaluated by objective testing and close observation. The results showed 41.875% (+/- 16.669 SD) entry level objective correct answers as compared to 82.083% (+/- 10.206) upon completion of the rotation. Residents were observed and graded over the six-year period by one (occasionally two) faculty members for successful task completion. The residents' mastery of surgical, endoscopic and urodynamic skills was deemed acceptable through a subjective evaluation by urogynecology faculty members based on satisfactory completion of 80% of the assigned task. Formal urogynecologic training by a knowledgeable subspecialist is a useful adjunct to the obstetrics-and-gynecology residency program.