Optimal Pouch Training: Investigating Operative and Nonoperative Needs Study.

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery Education
• Surgical Training Curriculum Development
• Medical Education Research

Background:

• Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis (IPAA) is a key component of colorectal surgery training.
• Declining case numbers limit opportunities for residents to acquire IPAA knowledge and skills.
• There is a need for structured adjunctive curricula to supplement traditional training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the components and format of an adjunctive curriculum for teaching IPAA.
• To achieve expert consensus on essential curriculum elements and acceptable alternative strategies.
• To identify effective methods for assessing resident competency in IPAA.

Main Methods:

• Modified Delphi Consensus study utilizing semistructured interviews and thematic analysis.
• Three rounds of surveys distributed to colorectal surgery faculty and residents.
• A final consensus conference with program directors to refine curriculum and assessment strategies.

Main Results:

• Identified specific educational needs across preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of IPAA.
• Survey results from 85 colorectal surgeons informed curriculum content and educational strategies.
• Consensus was reached on recommended educational strategies and assessment methods for IPAA training.

Conclusions:

• A shared understanding of resident educational needs, including knowledge, judgment, and technical skills, is established.
• This forms the foundation for developing a comprehensive IPAA curriculum.
• Collaborative efforts are underway to create and implement the necessary educational resources.