Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the training of general surgery residents

Abstract

Background The educational process of young doctors should be a topic of high interest, since it is central to preparing the new generations of healthcare providers. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the medical system on multiple levels, including medical education. Methods We conducted a descriptive survey study, designed to reflect the impact of the pandemic on the training of general surgery residents. Two questionnaires were delivered to general surgery residents at two different periods: one in the pre-COVID-19 era (December 2019) and one in the COVID-19 era (December 2020). Data were gathered on participants' characteristics, current clinical practice and knowledge, extracurricular activities, and involvement in the management of COVID-19 cases. Results We registered 33 responses in the pre-COVID-19 era and 45 responses in the COVID-19 era. Most participants felt that the pandemic significantly affected their training in classic and laparoscopic surgery. The number of days per week that the residents were active in the operating room and the

The new normal: a review of the impact of COVID-19 on gastroenterology fellowship training

“…A study comparing pre- and post-pandemic experiences of surgical residents reported the pandemic significantly impacted their skills in laparoscopic surgeries, decreased cases throughout weeks, and a decline in the postgraduate pursuit of laparoscopic surgical fields. 58 , 59 To supplement these losses, surgical training programs expanded their hands-on simulation training. 59 , 60 Historically, gastroenterology fellowships predominantly have utilized endoscopy simulation at the start of procedural training rather than as a replacement for endoscopy.…”

“… 58 , 59 To supplement these losses, surgical training programs expanded their hands-on simulation training. 59 , 60 Historically, gastroenterology fellowships predominantly have utilized endoscopy simulation at the start of procedural training rather than as a replacement for endoscopy. 61 , 62 Yet, COVID-19 brought about an expanded use of simulation and the incorporation of low-cost endoscopy trainers.…”

“…In fact, one study of the residency match among surgical specialties demonstrated an increased number of applicants who had no geographic connection to the program they matched to in 2021. 51 , 59 This is one suggestion that the virtual interview process may lead to regional diversification. However, virtual interviews and virtual tours may not be adequate for some residents and fellow applicants.…”