A Systematic Review of Wellness in Plastic Surgery Training

Abstract

Background Physician and resident wellness has been increasingly emphasized as a means of improving patient outcomes and preventing physician burnout. Few studies have been performed with a focus on wellness in plastic surgery training. Objectives The aim of this study is to systematically review what literature exists on the topic of wellness in plastic surgery training and critically appraise it. Methods A PubMed search was performed to identify journal articles related to wellness in plastic surgery residency. Seventeen studies (6 cohort and 11 cross-sectional) met inclusion criteria and were appraised with The New Castle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOQAS) to determine the quality of the studies based on selection, comparability, and outcome metrics. Results Critical assessment showed that the studies were highly variable in focus. Overall, the quality of the data was low, with an average NOQAS score of 4.1. Only two studies focused on plastic surgery residents, examining work hours and social wellness, respectively they were awarded NOQAS scores of 3 and 4 out of 10. Conclusions The results of this systematic review suggest that little research has been devoted to wellness in surgery training, especially in regard to plastic surgery residents, and what research that has been performed is of relatively low quality. The available research suggests a relatively high prevalence of burnout among plastic surgery residents. Evidence suggests some organizational level interventions to improve trainee wellness. Because outcomes-based data on the effects of such interventions is particularly lacking, further investigation is warranted.

A Social Media Analysis of Wellness Culture in Plastic Surgery Residency

“…21,22,26 However, there is a need in the literature for more and higher quality studies on wellness incorporation into plastic surgery residency programs specifically. 18 One such avenue for learning more about such initiatives is social media. Not only have integrated plastic surgery residency programs expanded their Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts in recent years but also applicants have cited social media as highly used resources for learning about and ranking programs.…”

“…These initiatives demonstrate that opportunities and activities for wellness are associated with decreased rates of burnout and improved qualities of life, highlighting possible solutions for the current burnout epidemic 21,22,26 . However, there is a need in the literature for more and higher quality studies on wellness incorporation into plastic surgery residency programs specifically 18 . One such avenue for learning more about such initiatives is social media.…”

“…16,17 Despite the high prevalence of burnout among plastic surgery residents, there is a paucity of quality research on wellness initiatives during plastic surgery. 18 Despite the importance of promoting resident wellness for current trainees, it is currently unclear whether plastic surgery programs are actively incorporating initiatives to foster wellness. However, programs are increasingly using platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to showcase multiple aspects of their program, including department accomplishments, research, educational opportunities, and resident life.…”

“…A key method of fighting physician burnout is cultivating a culture of wellness. For residents, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education aims to explore and address issues related to resident wellness, such as implementing work hour limitations and requiring programs to “ensure healthy and safe learning and working environments that promote resident well-being.” 16,17 Despite the high prevalence of burnout among plastic surgery residents, there is a paucity of quality research on wellness initiatives during plastic surgery 18 …”

The Current State of Plastic Surgery Residency Wellness Programs: Benefits and Barriers

“…[12][13][14][15][16] However, a recent systematic review of research on wellness in plastic surgery training found that research is variable, lacking, and poor in quality. 17 Although numerous resources and strategies for plastic surgery resident wellness have been proposed, the formal structure of wellness programs remains undescribed. 2,[18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26] Addressing elements of physician well-being is vital but no single formula exists.…”