[Insights of young French surgical oncologists: motives and training]

In France, surgical oncology is not recognized as a unique specialty, but as a sub-specialization offered to surgeons in training. To date, their motives and training have not been studied.

We set a dedicated online survey suggested to 102 surgeons applying for the specific national degree in surgical oncology.

The answer rate was 60%. Responders were constituted of a majority of male (61%), their median age was 31 years. They were mainly residents (33%) and fellows working in university (25%) or non-university (28%) hospitals. Most responders have chosen their organ specialization at the beginning, and their oncologic sub-specialization at the middle of their residency, after a meeting with a senior surgeon. Regarding practical education, 85% used surgical videos, 62% mechanical training devices, 60% animal surgery, and 38% cadaver dissection. Regarding career expectations, 67% would like to work in a cancer centre, 51% in a university hospital, and 26% in a private institution. To explain these choices, 51% referred to research and 65% to teaching interests.

This study outlines the role of mentorship and the lack of practical teaching outside the operating room during the training in surgical oncology in France.