Progressive Surgical Autonomy in a Plastic Surgery Resident Clinic

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Education
• Resident Training

Background:

• Plastic Surgery Resident Clinics (PSRCs) are crucial for developing surgical skills.
• Limited studies exist on the impact of PSRCs on resident autonomy and care continuity.
• This study investigates surgical autonomy and continuity within a PSRC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the achievement of increased surgical autonomy in a PSRC.
• To assess the continuity of care provided within a PSRC model.
• To evaluate resident perceptions of PSRC educational value.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 1,144 patients from 2010-2015 in an accredited independent plastic surgery training program's PSRC.
• Surgical autonomy scored using operative reports (5-point scale).
• Anonymous online survey of graduating chief residents.

Main Results:

• Senior resident autonomy scores increased with training level (PGY 6: 3.5/5, PGY 8: 3.8/5).
• Training level significantly impacted operative autonomy (P=0.026).
• 93.5% of cases had continuity of care; residents rated PSRC highly for experience, autonomy, and knowledge.

Conclusions:

• A PSRC model can successfully facilitate progressive surgical autonomy for residents.
• PSRCs enhance resident surgical experience, autonomy, and medical knowledge.
• The PSRC model supports continuity of care and Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education core competencies.