Paediatric Surgery training in South Africa: Trainees’ perspectives
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In brief
In brief
This survey of South African paediatric surgery trainees reveals significant training gaps in burns, urology, and laparoscopic techniques, with 44% working over 65 hours weekly. The study highlights institutional heterogeneity and identifies protected academic time as a critical barrier to comprehensive surgical education.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
Purpose
There is very little documented evidence regarding the training of paediatric surgeons in South Africa since its inception as a formal speciality in 2007. This study aims to assess South African paediatric surgical trainees’ perspectives regarding their training.
Methods
A prospective study was conducted via an emailed electronic survey. The sample population included all current paediatric surgical trainees in South Africa. The questionnaire covered the trainees’ demographics, exposure to different aspects of paediatric surgery, extent of after-hours clinical service, self-reported surgical competency and consultant supervision.
Results
Forty one (95%) out of 43 trainees responded to the survey with 29 (71%) being female. Reported training deficits included lack of exposure to burn care in 12 trainees (30%), no urology exposure in 8 (20%), no paediatric trauma or minimally invasive surgery exposure in 6 (15%). Eighteen trainees (44%) reportedly worked more than 65 h per week with clinical responsibilities being the biggest hindrance to attending academic teaching. Trainees were more comfortable performing open procedures compared to laparoscopic but most respondents felt adequately supervised.
Conclusion
There exists a significant heterogeneity amongst the different training institutions with protected academic time and exposure to burns, urology and minimally invasive surgery remaining major obstacles in training.