What do we need to know about anatomy in gynaecology: A Delphi consensus study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy
• Gynaecology

Background:

• Ensuring safe and competent practice for general gynaecologists requires a defined anatomical knowledge base.
• Current postgraduate gynaecology education may benefit from a standardized curriculum focusing on clinically relevant anatomical structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the essential anatomical structures for safe and competent general gynaecology practice.
• To establish a consensus-based list of anatomical structures to guide gynaecology postgraduate training.

Main Methods:

• A multi-method approach involving a Delphi survey, focus groups, and individual interviews with gynaecologists and trainees.
• Anatomical structures were identified from surgical atlases and refined through expert consensus using a Likert scale.
• Consensus was defined as ≥70% of panelists rating an item as relevant (average ≥4).

Main Results:

• Consensus was reached on 86 clinically relevant anatomical structures.
• These structures were categorized into nine distinct anatomical areas.
• The findings provide a core list crucial for gynaecological practice.

Conclusions:

• A consensus list of 86 anatomical structures has been identified for general gynaecologists.
• This list serves as a foundation for improving gynaecology postgraduate education.
• The study represents a significant initial step towards defining competency in gynaecology.