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Neuropsychological Differences Between Surgery Interns and Age-Matched Adults
Nicholas E Anton1, Dominique Doster1, Jennifer N Choi1
1Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Journal of Surgical Education
|August 27, 2023
Summary
General surgery interns show superior cognitive abilities like working memory and attention compared to the general population. However, they exhibit lower cognitive flexibility and task monitoring skills, crucial for surgical performance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Education
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- General surgery residency is highly demanding, requiring advanced cognitive skills.
- Understanding the neuropsychological profile of residents is crucial for optimizing training and selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the neuropsychological functioning of general surgery interns (PGY1s) with age-matched adults in the general population.
- To identify cognitive strengths and weaknesses relevant to surgical training.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 26 PGY1s completed a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment battery.
- Cognitive domains assessed included executive function, working memory, psychomotor speed, selective attention, and problem-solving.
- Data were compared to normative data using one-sample t-tests.
Main Results:
- PGY1s demonstrated significantly better behavioral inhibition, working memory, selective attention, problem-solving, and psychomotor speed than the general population.
- Conversely, PGY1s showed significantly lower cognitive flexibility and task monitoring abilities.
Conclusions:
- Neuropsychological factors may contribute to the high achievement of general surgery residents.
- Cognitive flexibility and task monitoring are areas for potential development in junior residents.
- Assessment of these cognitive factors could inform resident selection and training strategies.
