Undergraduate Deficits in Plastic Surgery Exposure and Awareness
Author Information
Author(s): Bhachoo H, Glossop SC, Mattey LR, Pearson C, Hoade L, Cereceda-Monteoliva N, Scourfield L, Poacher AT
Primary Institution: Wye Valley NHS Trust, UK
Hypothesis
There is a gap in undergraduate plastic surgery teaching and student perceptions of the specialty.
Conclusion
The study highlights significant deficits in plastic surgery education in undergraduate medical curricula and calls for improved teaching methods.
Supporting Evidence
- Surveys indicate a significant deficit in exposure to plastic surgery in the undergraduate curriculum.
- Interest in plastic surgery is linked to the amount of surgical exposure students receive.
- One-day courses have shown to increase interest and knowledge in plastic surgery among students.
Takeaway
Medical students aren't learning enough about plastic surgery in school, which could make it harder for them to choose it as a career later.
Methodology
A systematic review of ten studies on undergraduate plastic surgery education was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
Potential Biases
Response bias may affect self-reported confidence levels and perceptions.
Limitations
The literature on plastic surgery education is limited and varies significantly across institutions.
Participant Demographics
Medical students from various UK institutions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
0.08–0.17
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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