Kindred spirits of the endocrines: the training of the future endocrine surgeons

The growth of knowledge and complexity now seen in General Surgery, has led to the sub-specialization of the discipline. Although it is considered by some to have led to the fragmentation of General Surgery and the erosion of the specialty as we know it today, others would argue that it has and will continue to lead to a stronger division and a higher standard of care. Most would argue that a higher standard of care in focus areas stimulates research and research, in turn, improves the quality of education and training. Ultimately, improved education and training leads to better patient care. Organ-specific specialization such as orthopedics and urology evolved from General Surgery and demonstrates this principle. Further sub-specialization is likely inevitable, if the discipline of General Surgery is to remain a desired specialty. Endocrine surgery has evolved into a sub-specialty of General Surgery, and over the last few decades has matured as a discipline. With this maturation comes the responsibility of defining the standard of care to be provided by surgeons involved in endocrine surgery. To achieve this goal, endocrine surgical associations and societies must set the standard of training both at the residency and postgraduate level. Where we are as a sub-specialty, where we came from, and what it will take to meet this goal are discussed.