The vascular surgery in-training examination predicts performance on qualifying examination

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Assessment and Evaluation

Background:

• The Vascular Surgery In-Training Examination (VSITE) is a formative assessment for surgical trainees.
• Its predictive ability for subsequent board certification examinations is not well-established.
• Understanding this correlation can guide training and assessment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if final-year VSITE scores can predict success on the Vascular Surgery Board written qualifying examination (VQE) and oral certifying examination (VCE).
• To guide trainees and program directors in optimizing educational efforts.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of first-time candidates for VQE and VCE from 2016-2020.
• Utilized linear and logistic regression models to associate final-year VSITE scores with VQE and VCE outcomes.
• Included both integrated and independent training pathways.

Main Results:

• Final-year VSITE scores explained 34% of the variance in VQE scores.
• VSITE scores significantly predicted VQE pass rates for both integrated and independent trainees (P < .001).
• A VSITE score of 500 predicted >90% VQE passing probability; a score of 400 predicted 64% passing probability for the cohort. VSITE also predicted VCE pass rates for independent trainees.

Conclusions:

• VSITE performance is a significant predictor of passing the VQE for vascular surgery trainees.
• Programs should focus on maximizing VSITE performance in the final training year to enhance VQE success.
• Further research into early-year VSITE predictive value may inform examination scheduling.