An Analysis of the Foot and Ankle-related Questions on the Korean Orthopedic In-Training Examination

Abstract

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to evaluate the questions pertaining to the foot and ankle on the Korean Orthopedic In-Training Examination (KOITE) between 2012 and 2016. Materials and Methods:Questions regarding the foot and ankle on KOITE during the five-year period (2012∼2016) were analyzed. Number of foot and ankle questions, topics, taxonomic classification, imaging modalities, and cited references related to each question were analyzed. Results:The average number of foot and ankle questions was 35, accounting for 7.0% (35/500) of all KOITE questions. All questions were categorized into three topic areas: disease (51.4%, 18/35), trauma (31.4%, 11/35), and basics (17.1%, 6/35). Taxonomy 3 (decisionmaking type questions) was the most common (42.9%, 15/35). References that are commonly used for each question were Campbell's Operative Orthopedics (100%, 35/35) and the textbook of The Korean Orthopaedic Association (74.3%, 26/35). Conclusion:This analysis can be valuable to not only orthopaedic surgery residents to improve their knowledge of orthopedics, but also to instructors for optimizing their education programs.