Effects of the medical crisis on surgical training

ABSTRACT

Objectives of the study In France, since March 2020, we observed a significant reduction, and sometimes a suspension of the surgical activity and hospital admissions. However, operating room activity is essential for the acquisition of the technical skills required by the French College of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (CFCVE). We report the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the surgical training. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study using an anonymous survey of 11 items was sent to all the surgeons in training (SiT) registered to the CFCVE. The answers were collected between July and November 2021. Results: 52 answers were collected (residents = 48%;fellows = 52%). 7 SiT contracted COVID-19. The crisis affected their scheduled and emergency operative activities, in 96% and 77% of the cases, respectively. 31% stopped all work-related activity for 1.5 months on average. In 18% of the cases, a reassignment in another department for an average period of two months was decided. Surgical skills were affected in 67% of cases, while 56% of the SiT did not consider they had achieved their personal training objectives (55% for the fellows, and 65% for the senior residents at the end of their training [4th, 5th and 6th year] and 92% for the younger residents (1st, 2nd and 3rd year of training). The increase in training duration (>3 months) and simulation were favored by 60% and 73% of SiTs, respectively. Conclusion: The COVID-19 medical crisis affected the training in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery in France. An additional time of formation and the use of simulation training should support the acquisition of technical skills.