Supplementation of surgical training using a model of objective skill assessment: “The par diagonal”

The introduction of the European Working Time Regulations (ETWR) and Modernising Medical Careers (MMC) has had a profound impact on surgical training. Many trainees are finding more of their time taken up by service provision and ward work. Yet it is known that time spent in theatre predicts training opportunities and progression for surgical trainees. The conventional apprenticeship model in surgical education does not satisfy the requirements of training at present. We therefore introduced a model for objective skill assessment, the PAR-Diagonal Operating Matrix (PAR-DOM) which breaks down the task of vascular anastomosis into clearly defined skills. The PAR-DOM matrix provides a graphic representation of the progress of trainees and helps identify individual strengths and weaknesses. Using this model combined with 20 minutes a day out of hours exercise (performing needle skills on poached eggs, boiled potatoes and bananas) trainees were graphically seen to improve their PAR-DOM matrix scores within weeks. We therefore advocate the use of a PAR-DOM matrix scoring system by trainers and out of hours practice by trainees to counteract the reduction in theatre exposure and training opportunities.
Source: International Journal of Surgery - Category: Surgery Authors: Tags: Abstracts from the Association of Surgeons in Training Conference Source Type: research