Richards T, Pittathankal AA, Kahn PY, Magee TR, Lewis MH, Galland RB. Vascular surgical emergencies: how will future surgeons be trained?
Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2007;
88:646-9. [PMID:
17132313 PMCID:
PMC1963784 DOI:
10.1308/003588406x149264]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
We wished to assess whether pattern and impact of emergency vascular surgical referrals has altered since a previous study in 1990. Following introduction of shift working patterns, we wished to assess how these changes may affect vascular training and vascular on-call cover.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Prospective survey of emergency vascular referrals at two district general hospitals (DGH-R and DGH-L) in 2003. DGH-R received only regional referrals whereas DGH-L also received 'next day' referrals from a smaller hospital. Results were compared between centres and with a previous study undertaken at DGH-R in 1990.
RESULTS
From 1990 to 2003 emergency vascular referrals at DGH-R increased by 51% (53 to 80). The number seen at DGH-R and DGH-L were similar in 2003. There were significantly more out-of-hours referrals in DGH-R than DGH-L (59% versus 35%; P = 0.0123). Referrals were more likely to be seen initially by the vascular team at DGH-L than DGH-R (80% versus 47%, P < 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS
Vascular emergency referrals have increased. A trainee was likely to see more emergency referrals at DGH-L than DGH-R. This may impact on future training.
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