Knife to Skin Time in Orthopaedics- A New Sub-Speciality Selection Tool

Several selection methods have been used to aid selection into orthopaedic training programs but no process exists to aid in sub-speciality selection. A process which is continuous, unbiased and encompasses technical skill and decision making would be the gold standard. This paper analyses the use of a daily clinical task that assesses many of the desirable traits of a prospective trainee. A retrospective review of 13,474 orthopaedic procedures was under taken. The results showed a clear distinction between orthopaedic sub-specialities in time taken to perform this task. The authors suggest that this could provide a low cost insight into the appropriate subspecialty for orthopaedic trainees.