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Survey on Training Satisfaction among German Neurosurgical Trainees
Anna Cecilia Lawson McLean1, Stefanie Maurer2, Dorothea Nistor-Gallo3
1Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany.
Summary
Half of German neurosurgical trainees are dissatisfied with their training, citing a lack of surgical experience and mentoring. Improvements in training programs and structured mentorship are needed to enhance neurosurgery education.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery Training and Education
- Medical Professional Development
Background:
- Increasing number of neurosurgeons in Germany over 30 years.
- Approximately 1,000 neurosurgical residents currently in training.
- Limited understanding of trainee experiences and career prospects.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess neurosurgical trainee satisfaction with current training.
- Evaluate perceived career opportunities for trainees.
- Identify areas for improvement in neurosurgical residency programs.
Main Methods:
- Survey distributed to German neurosurgical trainees via a mailing list.
- Survey conducted from April 1 to May 31, 2021.
- 81 completed responses analyzed from 90 enrolled trainees.
Main Results:
- 47% of trainees reported dissatisfaction with their training.
- 62% experienced a lack of surgical training; 58% faced difficulties attending courses.
- Only 16% received consistent mentoring; 88% were open to relocating for fellowships.
Conclusions:
- Significant dissatisfaction exists among neurosurgical trainees regarding training quality.
- Key areas for enhancement include curriculum structure, mentoring, and administrative workload.
- A modernized, structured curriculum with improved mentoring is proposed to elevate training standards and patient care.

