Dwindling demand for certain gynaecological procedures ‘threatens surgical skills’
Trainees aren't being sufficiently exposed to the gamut of surgeries and even specialists may lose proficiencies, researchers say
Certified specialists and trainees in operative gynaecology risk losing proficiencies because of dwindling volumes of certain procedures, Australian specialists warn.
The resulting “shortfall” in surgical experience — particularly in laparotomies, vaginal hysterectomies and stress incontinence procedures — could ultimately compromise patient safety, they say.
Sydney gynaecologists have found that major surgical procedures are being performed at rates lower than 12 cases per year for both trainees and specialists.
The team, from the University of NSW and the Royal Hospital for Women, say this volume “is not adequate for maintenance of proficiency by all specialists who identify as operative gynaecologists”.
