A comprehensive pelvic dissection course improves obstetrics and gynecology resident proficiency in surgical anatomy.

Abstract

This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of a pelvic dissection course on resident proficiency in surgical anatomy. Over a 1-year period, residents attended a course consisting of pretesting and posttesting, lectures, and pelvic dissection. Tests results were analyzed using paired Student t test, analysis of variance, and Kruskal-Wallis statistics. Of 42 residents, 24 completed all testing (study cohort). On written and practical examinations, resident scores improved a median of 42% and 29% (both P<.0001). Postgraduate year (PGY) 2 demonstrated the greatest improvement on the practical and PGY-3s demonstrated the greatest improvement on the written. Baseline written and practical results discriminated PGY level (construct validity): PGY-2=PGY-3<PGY-4 on written pretest, PGY-2<PGY-3=PGY-4 on practical pretest. No difference between resident cohorts was seen in either posttest. Resident surgical anatomy proficiency is measurably improved by a comprehensive course.