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Gelman J, Filo J, Ramirez-Velandia F, Enriquez-Marulanda A, Blitz S, Muram S, Penumaka A, Mackel C, Young M, Pace J, Dasenbrock H, Malek A, Taussky P, Granstein J, Ogilvy CS. The Neurovascular Disease Management Course: A Medical Student Opportunity for Early Exposure and Technical Development in Vascular Neurosurgery. World Neurosurg 2024:S1878-8750(24)01286-5. [PMID: 39067693 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.07.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As endovascular neurosurgery techniques continue to evolve, medical students in the United States have widely varying exposures to the field, particularly with respect to opportunities for hands-on experiences. Current medical school curricula could benefit from a novel and adaptive course on vascular neurosurgery to increase student exposure earlier in their training. METHODS We launched a yearly hands-on vascular neurosurgery course for medical students and residents. The day-long course is a combination of lectures focused on neurovascular disease and management accompanied by hands-on sessions where students practiced fundamental microsurgery and angiography techniques using real microscopes and angiography simulators. We surveyed the students before and after each of the 2 courses. The survey following the second annual course included quiz questions the students had not previously seen. RESULTS Over 2 courses, we had 149 attendees, 71.8% of which were first and second-year medical students representing fifteen institutions. The average survey completion rate was 41.4% for the 4 surveys across the 2 courses. Attendees' interest in pursuing a surgical specialty (t = 1.815, P = 0.039) along with their comfort with neuroanatomy (t = 8.780, P ≤ 0.001) and neurosurgical disease (t = 6.133, P ≤ 0.001) was significantly elevated after the completion of the second course. Responses to the post-survey showed a good grasp of the fundamentals with 68% of attendees answering 70% of the quiz questions correctly. CONCLUSIONS An interactive course on vascular neurosurgery may be an effective vehicle to provide medical students with exposure to the field and the opportunity to learn the fundamentals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Gelman
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jean Filo
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Felipe Ramirez-Velandia
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Sarah Blitz
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sandeep Muram
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anirudh Penumaka
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charles Mackel
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael Young
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan Pace
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hormuzdiyar Dasenbrock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adel Malek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tufts Medical School, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philipp Taussky
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Justin Granstein
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher S Ogilvy
- Neurosurgical Service, Harvard Medical School, Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Çalış F, Şimşek AT, İnan NG, Topyalın N, Adam BE, Elias Ç, Aksu ME, Aladdam M, Gültekin G, Sorkun MH, Tez M, Balak N. Factors Affecting Turkish Medical Students' Pursuit of a Career in Neurosurgery: A Single Center Survey Study. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e926-e943. [PMID: 38460813 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statistics show that over the past 2 decades, even in high-income countries, fewer and fewer students have listed neurosurgery as their top career option. Literature on medical students' pursuit of neurosurgical careers in middle- and low-income countries are scarce. The aim of this research, conducted in Turkey with a middle-income economy, was to contribute insights relevant to medical education and neurosurgery across the world. METHODS A survey was conducted with a target sample of fourth-year (167 students), fifth-year (169 students), and sixth-year (140 students) medical students (476 in total) from the Medical School at Istanbul Medeniyet University in Turkey. The response rates of the fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-year students were 62% (104/167), 53% (90/169), and 50% (70/140), respectively (in total, 266, including 147 female and 119 male). RESULTS In terms of the genuine intention, only 2.5% of men and 2.7% of women were committed to specializing in neurosurgery. This study further revealed that possible reasons for these students' low motivation to specialize in neurosurgery were their beliefs that in neurosurgery, the physical and psychological demands were high, and the night shifts were intense, meaning they would not have a social life or spare time for their hobbies; that morbidity/mortality were high; and that financial incentives were insufficient, especially in public institutions. CONCLUSION Turkish medical students did not rank neurosurgery at the top of their career choices. Possible reasons for this are socioeconomic factors and the inadequate introduction of neurosurgery to medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Çalış
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Abdullah Talha Şimşek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Nur Topyalın
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Baha E Adam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Çimen Elias
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Muhammed Emin Aksu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Mohammed Aladdam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Güliz Gültekin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Müjgan Tez
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Naci Balak
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye.
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Odonkor MN, Dada OE, Rincon-Torroella J, Pahwa B, Balogun JA, Ukachukwu AEK, Fuller AT, Huang J, Groves M, Badejo OA, Abu-Bonsrah N. Perceived Barriers to Pursuing a Career in Neurosurgery in Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Nigerian Medical Students and Unspecialized Physicians. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e57-e74. [PMID: 38741330 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.11.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nigeria has an inadequate number of neurosurgeons to meet the population's demand for neurosurgical care. Furthermore, few Nigerian neurosurgeons are female. This study sought to evaluate perceived barriers to pursuing neurosurgery among Nigerian trainees. METHODS A 60-question survey was distributed electronically to medical students at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and unspecialized intern physicians at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Participation was voluntary. RESULTS One hundred fifty-seven respondents participated in the survey. A greater proportion of males indicated an interest in neurosurgery than females (40% vs. 18%, P = 0.010). Over 75% of respondents identified decreased family and personal time, long work hours, and limited access to maternity or paternity leave as potential barriers to neurosurgery, with no differences by gender. Respondents overall saw being female and low-income as disadvantageous to pursuing neurosurgery in Nigeria. Although they universally viewed research as important in neurosurgery, 59% of respondents reported inadequate access to research opportunities; this did not vary by gender. However, 65% of female respondents reported that having a female neurosurgery mentor would increase their interest in neurosurgery (vs. 37% of males, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Nigerian medical trainees perceived the time commitment of neurosurgery as a major barrier to pursuing the specialty. Regardless of gender, they also reported low exposure to neurosurgery and inadequate access to research and mentorship opportunities. However, we found that enhanced female representation among neurosurgery mentors and improved work-life balance could increase interest in neurosurgery and help expand Nigeria's neurosurgical workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle N Odonkor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Bhavya Pahwa
- University College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - James A Balogun
- College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria; Department of Neurological Surgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Alvan-Emeka K Ukachukwu
- Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Hospital, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Hospital, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Judy Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mari Groves
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Oluwakemi A Badejo
- College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria; Department of Neurological Surgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Nancy Abu-Bonsrah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Idrees A, Rehman AU, Mehmood MA, Pahwa B, Mohsin A, Shaikh T, Jesrani EK, Chaurasia B. Perception of Neurosurgery as a Career Choice Among Early Career Doctors in Pakistan: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey. World Neurosurg 2024; 183:e598-e602. [PMID: 38181874 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.12.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A low neurosurgeon-to-patient ratio persists in many developing nations including Pakistan. We aimed to investigate the perceptions of medical students regarding neurosurgery as a first step toward recognizing this problem and potentially suggesting ways to solve it. METHODS A questionnaire was designed comprising 3 sections: 1) demographics, 2) possible challenges and perceptions regarding neurosurgery as a profession, and 3) general perceptions about neurosurgery. Statistical analysis was conducted, and a P value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Of 387 responses received, 44.4% of male respondents and 50.6% of female respondents revealed intent to consider opting for neurosurgery as a profession. Regression analysis revealed inadequate dexterity (P = 0.001) and inability to carry out private practice (P = 0.002) were responsible for increased likelihood of opting out of neurosurgery by medical students. CONCLUSIONS This study identified the perceptions that may influence the decision to pursue neurosurgical training among physicians early in their careers. Interventions including availability of day care facilities for children and introduction of curricula to promote neurosurgical knowledge in clinical training are expected to encourage the decision to pursue neurosurgery among medical students in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiman Idrees
- King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Bhavya Pahwa
- University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital, Delhi, India.
| | | | | | | | - Bipin Chaurasia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Clinic, Birgunj, Nepal
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Shah H, Pandey K, Raheja A, Garg K, Singla R, Mishra S, Tandon V, Servadei F, Kale S. Neurosurgery as a Top-Drawer Choice for Residency in India: Reality or Myth? World Neurosurg 2024; 183:e512-e521. [PMID: 38184225 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.12.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This survey was conducted to explore the perceptions of undergraduate (UG) medical students regarding enrolling in a neurosurgical training program. The purpose was to understand' expectations, reasons, apprehensions, and variables influencing students' decisions to pursue a career in neurosurgery. The results shed light on students' perceptions and can help educational institutions and training programs draw in and encourage aspiring neurosurgeons. METHODS A 35-point online questionnaire was created using Google Forms (Google LLC) after content and face validation and circulated using social media platforms among various public medical colleges across India. Responses were collected over a period of 3 months, from February 2023 to April 2023. A 5-point Likert scale was used to collect the responses wherever applicable. RESULTS A total of 1042 respondents from 47 medical colleges completed the survey. The majority of the students were not exposed to neurosurgery during their UG program, but despite this, 60.1% (n = 627) were willing to consider it as their career option. Around 91.4% of the respondents perceived neurosurgery to be a challenging but prestigious specialty that has a long learning curve and the worst work-life balance when compared with other specialties. The majority of the respondents (strongly disagree = 24.3%, n = 253; disagree = 31.7%, n = 330) did not view neurosurgery as a male-dominated specialty. Most students preferred a 6-year training program over a 3-year program (P = 0.001) if their medical college had such a course. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals that although a majority of the UG students would like to join neurosurgery residency, there are significant barriers in the form of less exposure, negative perceptions, and apprehensions toward the branch. Enhancing medical students' awareness about neurosurgery necessitates the integration of hands-on workshops, simulation-based training, didactic lectures, and neurosurgery rotations into the UG curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Het Shah
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kushagra Pandey
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Amol Raheja
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kanwaljeet Garg
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Raghav Singla
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shashwat Mishra
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Tandon
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
| | - Franco Servadei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Shashank Kale
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Rodriguez-Armendariz AG, Saint-Germain MA, Khalafallah AM, Huq S, Almeida ND, Dornbos DL, Graffeo CS, Sivakumar W, Mukherjee D, Johnson JN. The neurosurgery research & education foundation-young neurosurgeons committee webinar series: Providing education and inspiration during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Clin Neurosci 2024; 120:221-228. [PMID: 38295463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2024.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE During the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) Young Neurosurgeons Committee (YNC) and Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF) launched the YNC-NREF Webinar Series to provide young and aspiring neurosurgeons with timely information, education, and inspiration in the absence of in-person programming. DESIGN Five 90-minute Zoom webinars were evaluated, each including 1-2 keynote speakers, a panel discussion, and an audience question-and-answer section. Topics included overviews of neurosurgery, the match, subspecialties, and inspirational career stories. Optional pre- and post-webinar surveys with 11-point Likert-type scores were distributed to attendees. We compared groups using chi-squared and Kruskal-Willis tests, and perceptions pre- and post-webinar using Mann-Whitney tests. SETTING The webinars were live using Zoom, and the recordings were published on NREF's YouTube channel. PARTICIPANTS The webinar series targeted young neurosurgeons. The first five episodes had a particular focus on medical students and undergraduates. RESULTS A total of 673 unique participants attended the webinar series; 257 (38%) and 78 (11%) attendees completed the pre- and post-webinar survey, respectively. Respondents had high baseline interest in neurosurgery and were motivated to learn about the match and training in the US, understand neurosurgeons' day-to-day lives, and ask questions. There were significant differences in perceptions between USMSs, IMSs, and undergraduate students. The webinar improved attendees' knowledge about neurosurgical specialties, the match, and US neurosurgery training. CONCLUSIONS The YNC and NREF effectively engaged a large, diverse audience through an online webinar series, building a foundation for future virtual programming by organized neurosurgery. ACGME competencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana G Rodriguez-Armendariz
- Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Tecnologico de Monterrey. 2501 Eugenio Garza Sada, Nuevo León, Monterrey 64849, Mexico.
| | - Max A Saint-Germain
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. 1800 Orleans St. Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Adham M Khalafallah
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1475 Northwest 12th Avenue, Floor 1, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sakibul Huq
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Presbyterian, Suite B-400, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Neil D Almeida
- The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, 23000 St NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, 131 Biomedical Education Building, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| | - David L Dornbos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Semmes-Murphey Clinic, 6325 Humphreys Blvd, Memphis, TN 38120, USA
| | - Christopher S Graffeo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Walavan Sivakumar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, 2125 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Debraj Mukherjee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. 1800 Orleans St. Baltimore, MD, USA 21287.
| | - Jeremiah N Johnson
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge, Suite 9A, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California Los Angeles, 300 Stein Plaza, Suite 562, Box 956901, Los Angeles, CA 90095-6901, USA
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Roy JM, Covell MM, Venero C, Bowers CA. A Medical Student's Guide to Online Resources in Neurosurgery. World Neurosurg 2024; 181:23-28. [PMID: 37832635 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Early exposure to neurosurgery during medical school is critical to improving recruitment into the specialty. About 30% of medical schools in the U.S. lack a home program in neurosurgery, thereby, limiting their exposure to the field of neurosurgery. The transition to virtual education was largely facilitated through webinars during the coronavirus disease of 2019 pandemic. Advantages of these resources include their widespread global outreach, with a large number of attendees being international medical students. Although many such resources exist, they are primarily available through social media platforms. To our knowledge, there exists no clear outline of these resources. We identified 16 resources through a database search and through popular social media platforms. Nine out of 16 resources were video based, and 2 utilized the concept of spaced repetition through flashcards. Our review describes these educational resources and aims to serve as a guide for medical students interested in neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M Roy
- Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai, India; Bowers Neurosurgical Frailty & Outcomes Data Science Lab, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Michael M Covell
- Bowers Neurosurgical Frailty & Outcomes Data Science Lab, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA; School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Carmelo Venero
- Bowers Neurosurgical Frailty & Outcomes Data Science Lab, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA; University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Christian A Bowers
- Bowers Neurosurgical Frailty & Outcomes Data Science Lab, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.
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Michiwaki Y, Yamane F, Itokawa H, Tanaka T, Shimoji K, Matsuno A. Hands-on neuroendovascular practice for nonselective undergraduate medical students increases interest and aspirations in pursuing neurosurgery as a specialization. Surg Neurol Int 2023; 14:414. [PMID: 38213451 PMCID: PMC10783694 DOI: 10.25259/sni_778_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The number of medical students aspiring to become neurosurgeons has decreased worldwide, mainly due to poor work-life balance among neurosurgeons; therefore, recruiting students for neurosurgery is essential to ensure the availability and appropriate quality of neurosurgical treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of hands-on neuroendovascular practice for nonselective undergraduate medical students to determine whether this increases their interest in neurosurgery and contributes to their aspirations of becoming neurosurgeons. Methods Hands-on neuroendovascular practice for mechanical thrombectomy was performed by undergraduate 5th-year medical students during their 2-week clinical rotation in the Department of neurosurgery at our university hospital between April 2021 and March 2023. After the neurosurgery practice, a questionnaire about their understanding of neurosurgery and aspirations for this specialization before and after the practice was anonymously completed by all students. Results Overall, 153 students completed the questionnaire. Of these, 140 (91.5 %) showed increased interest in neurosurgery after participating in the hands-on practice. Through this practice, the number of students who considered neurosurgery as their first choice or one of their specialty choices increased from 8 (5.2%) to 12 (7.8%) (P = 0.3534) and from 19 (12.4%) to 52 (34.0%) (P < 0.0001), respectively. Furthermore, the number of students with no aspiration to become neurosurgeons decreased from 95 (62.1%) to 43 (28.1%) (P < 0.0001). Conclusion Hands-on neuroendovascular practice for nonselective undergraduate medical students effectively increased their interest in neurosurgery specialization and their desire to become neurosurgeons. Therefore, this practice can help recruit medical students for neurosurgery specialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhei Michiwaki
- Department of Neurosurgery, International University of Health and Welfare, School of Medicine, Narita City, Chiba, Japan
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9
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Romano R, Dean J, Bageac DV, Galske J, Anderson T, Kadian S, Modi Y, Paro M, Lambert W, Leclair NK, Hersh DS, Bulsara KR. Recruitment into Academic Neurosurgery Using a Model for Successful Cross-Campus Research Collaboration: A Premedical Student Survey. World Neurosurg 2023; 179:e21-e31. [PMID: 37348601 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recruitment of diverse and talented students to the field of neurosurgery is key to its continued growth and scientific advancement. Barriers, including poor perceptions and lack of early exposure, can impact recruitment and have been compounded by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This study examines the impact of an inaugural Neurosurgery Research Consortium meeting on premedical students, assessing whether this exposure generated interest and improved perceptions of a career in neurosurgery. METHODS Premedical students were recruited to virtually attend an inaugural Neurosurgery Research Consortium developed by the affiliated medical school's American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) Student Chapter. Questionnaires were distributed to students before and after the meeting to assess student demographics and perceptions of neurosurgery. RESULTS A total of 54 students attended the meeting, with general interest in neurosurgery, medicine, and research opportunities being the primary factors for attendance. Following the research meeting, we found that students perceived neurosurgeons to be friendlier and more approachable, with a more positive quality of life (QoL). Overall perceptions of neurosurgery improved after the meeting, but perceptions among racial and ethnic minority students did not significantly change in the areas of diversity, inclusion, and equity. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest recruitment strategies targeting undergraduate students may improve their perception of neurosurgery as a career, and may mitigate some barriers to entry. These strategies are cost effective and easily replicable, making an easily implementable approach to provide direct insight into neurosurgery for future medical students while also promoting academic efforts in the field of neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Romano
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jordan Dean
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Devin V Bageac
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - James Galske
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Thea Anderson
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sumeet Kadian
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yash Modi
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mitch Paro
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - William Lambert
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Nathan K Leclair
- School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - David S Hersh
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ketan R Bulsara
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.
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Pugazenthi S, Islam AA, Sivakumar W, Dornbos DL, Johnson JN, Wolfe SQ, Graffeo CS. Assessing opportunities for formal exposure to clinical neurosurgery within United States allopathic medical education curricula. J Neurosurg 2022:1-7. [PMID: 36681957 DOI: 10.3171/2022.11.jns221484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate opportunities for early clinical exposure to neurosurgery at US allopathic medical schools and to assess associations between early exposure and recruitment into neurosurgery. METHODS The authors conducted a standardized review of online curriculum documentation for all US allopathic medical schools, including descriptive review of opportunities for clinical neurosurgical training among medical students. Chi-square analysis was used to compare baseline characteristics of institutions. Logistic regression was performed to assess factors predictive of early exposure to clinical neurosurgery, defined as completion of a formal rotation at least 6 months prior to Electronic Residency Application Service submission. RESULTS Among 155 allopathic US medical schools, 143 are fully accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. Eleven schools have no affiliated hospitals with a neurosurgery practice, and 26 do not have an American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) medical student chapter. Overall, 94 (60.6%) have a traditional preclinical curriculum lasting 21-25 months, 50 (32.3%) offer an intermediate preclinical period of 15-20 months, and 11 (7.1%) report a short preclinical curriculum of 12-14 months. Early formal exposure to clinical neurosurgery was offered by 113 schools (72.9%). Early clinical exposure to neurosurgery was associated with a short (100%) or intermediate (76%) preclinical curriculum, as compared with a traditional curriculum (68.1%; p = 0.066). Early exposure was significantly associated with a shorter preclinical curriculum (OR 0.784, p = 0.005). AANS medical student chapters were present at a high majority of schools with early exposure (OR 4.114, p = 0.006). Medical schools with a higher percentage of graduating medical students matching into neurosurgery were associated with a shorter preclinical curriculum length (β = -0.287, p < 0.001), were more commonly private medical schools (β = 0.338, p < 0.001), and had early clinical exposure to neurosurgery (β = 0.191, p = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS Early exposure to clinical neurosurgery is available at most US allopathic medical schools and is associated with shorter preclinical curricula and institutions with AANS medical student chapters. Medical schools with a higher proportion of medical students entering neurosurgery had a shorter preclinical curriculum length and early clinical exposure to neurosurgery. Further study is recommended to characterize the impact of early exposure on long-term pedagogical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangami Pugazenthi
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Aseeyah A Islam
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - David L Dornbos
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Jeremiah N Johnson
- 4Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Stacey Q Wolfe
- 5Department of Neurosurgery, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and
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11
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Letter to the Editor Regarding "Utility of a Pilot Neurosurgical Operative Skills Boot Camp in Medical Student Training". World Neurosurg 2022; 167:249-250. [PMID: 36793175 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.08.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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12
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Ng PR, Yearley AG, Mooney MA. In Reply to the Letter to the Editor Regarding "Utility of a Pilot Neurosurgical Operative Skills Boot Camp in Medical Student Training". World Neurosurg 2022; 167:251. [PMID: 36793176 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.09.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick R Ng
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Michael A Mooney
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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13
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Yearley AG, Ng PR, Gupta S, Cosgrove GR, Mooney MA. Utility of a Pilot Neurosurgical Operative Skills Boot Camp in Medical Student Training. World Neurosurg 2022; 166:e551-e560. [PMID: 35870784 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.07.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The neurosurgical sub-internship is a crucial step for prospective neurosurgeons. However, the expectations for sub-interns, particularly the technical skills required by residents and attendings, often are unclear. We present survey data on what medical students, residents, and attendings believe are important procedural proficiencies for neurosurgical sub-internships. We incorporated these tasks into a pilot skills-based craniotomy workshop, and here we report on the impact of the session on the neurosurgical training of medical students. METHODS A 1-day craniotomy lab using cadaveric cranial specimens was conducted for medical students. Surveys querying important competencies for sub-internships were answered by residents and attendings at affiliated hospitals. Pre- and postlab surveys querying interest in and perceptions of neurosurgery, self-assessment of skills, and important competencies for sub-internship preparation were answered by attendees. RESULTS Medical students, residents, and attendings agreed that burr-hole placement, bone replating, and galea and skin closure were of high importance for sub-interns. There was significant disagreement on the importance of dural opening and closure, establishing a craniotomy, and neuronavigation. The workshop altered perceptions of neurosurgery, with significant changes in recognizing the value of peer mentorship. Students also expressed increased confidence in technical skills, with significant improvements shown in understanding of neurosurgical high-speed drill use (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although the expectations for sub-interns may be heterogeneous, there is general agreement that proficiency in the initial and final steps of craniotomies, as well as minor procedures, is recommended. Cadaveric labs can improve student engagement in neurosurgery, facilitate interactions with neurosurgical departments, and enhance technical skills.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick R Ng
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Saksham Gupta
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - G Rees Cosgrove
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael A Mooney
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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14
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Shen J, Yuan L, Ge R, Shao X, Jiang X. Improving medical student recruitment into neurosurgery through teaching reform. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:656. [PMID: 36056389 PMCID: PMC9440581 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03722-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether a combination of case-based learning (CBL) and problem-based learning (PBL) methods in teaching can improve the academic performance and recruitment of medical students for neurosurgery. METHODS Four classes of fourth-year medical students were randomly divided into two groups. The traditional model group received the traditional teaching method, and the CBL-PBL group received the combined teaching methods of CBL and PBL. After the courses, the differences between the two groups in self-perceived competence, satisfaction with the course, post-class test scores, and clinical practice abilities were compared, and the proportions of neurosurgery major selection in pre- and post-curriculum between the two groups were also analyzed. RESULTS Self-perceived competence, post-class test scores, and clinical practice abilities in the CBL-PBL group were better than those in the traditional model group. The students in the CBL-PBL group showed a higher degree of satisfaction with the course than those in the traditional model group (χ2 = 12.03, P = 0.007). At the end of the semester, the proportion of students who chose neurosurgery majors in the CBL-PBL group was 13.3%, more than the 3.4% in the traditional model group (χ2 = 3.93, P = 0.048). CONCLUSION Compared with the traditional teaching method, the CBL and PBL integrated method is more effective for improving the performance of medical students and enhancing their clinical capabilities in neurosurgery teaching. The CBL-PBL method effectively improved students' interests in neurosurgery, potentially contributing to increasing medical student recruitment into neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (YiJiShan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Anhui Province, 241001, Wuhu City, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lili Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (YiJiShan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu City, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruixiang Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (YiJiShan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Anhui Province, 241001, Wuhu City, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefei Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (YiJiShan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Anhui Province, 241001, Wuhu City, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaochun Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (YiJiShan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Anhui Province, 241001, Wuhu City, People's Republic of China
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15
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Shlobin NA, Radwanski RE, Sandhu MRS, Rosseau G, Dahdaleh NS. Increasing Equity in Medical Student Neurosurgery Education Through Distance Learning. World Neurosurg 2022; 163:187-196.e8. [PMID: 35729820 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Addressing equitable opportunities for medical student (MS) education is important for minimizing disparities in neurosurgical care. However, international MSs, particularly from low- and middle-middle income countries (LMICs) may lack access to educational opportunities compared with their contemporaries in high-income countries. We compare the usefulness of virtual neurosurgery training camps (VNTC) between U.S. and international MSs. METHODS A survey assessing demographics, baseline interests, and ratings of usefulness was sent to attendees after the VNTC. Ratings were compared between international and U.S. MSs. RESULTS Thirty-three (27.7%) of 119 attendees were international MSs, of whom 24 (72.7%) were from LMICs. International MSs were more likely to hold an advanced degree (P = 0.0009), more likely to be MS3/MS4s (P = 0.0111) or postdoctoral (P < 0.0001), and less likely to be MS1/MS2s (P = 0.0059). After the VNTC, international MSs reported greater increase in interest in neurosurgery in general (P = 0.0009) and subspecialties of spine (P = 0.0002), peripheral nerve (P = 0.002), vascular (P = 0.0468), functional/epilepsy (P = 0.001), pediatric (P = 0.0285), and trauma/neurocritical care (P = 0.0067). International MSs reported greater post-VNTC willingness to pursue a career in neurosurgery (P = 0.0001), likelihood of taking a year off during medical school (P = 0.0363), and preparedness for subinternships (P = 0.0003). International MSs reported greater increases in awareness of burnout (P = 0.0157) and work-life balance in neurosurgery (P = 0.0249). CONCLUSIONS International MSs experience prolonged periods of education before applying to residency and have unmet informational needs. Distance learning is useful for international MSs. MS neurosurgery education, through online platforms, represents a long-term strategy for addressing disparities in neurosurgical care worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Shlobin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA.
| | - Ryan E Radwanski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Mani Ratnesh S Sandhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Gail Rosseau
- Department of Neurological Surgery, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nader S Dahdaleh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
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16
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Radwanski RE, Shlobin NA, Sandhu MRS, Aldos L, Pannullo SC. Neurosurgical Education for Medical Students: A Scoping Review. World Neurosurg 2022; 163:155-163.e6. [PMID: 35729816 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurosurgeons have a rich history of involvement in medical student education. We review the scope of related published works with the goal of highlighting recently increased efforts to innovate in neurosurgical education and discuss where future efforts must go. A scoping review was performed after comprehensive search of PubMed MEDLINE and Embase databases. Among the 2314 articles returned in the search, 54 were selected for inclusion and review. Articles are discussed in the context of neurosurgery electives, American Association of Neurological Surgeons chapters and medical school programs, national neurosurgery courses, neurosurgery education materials, neurosurgery career perceptions, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019. Despite increasing need for neurosurgical education in medical school, available experiences in formal curricula are diminishing. Longitudinal exposure to neurosurgery throughout medical school will help ensure a foundational understanding of neurosurgical disease management for all physicians and provide a pathway of exploration, education, and mentorship for the most suitable candidates. Neurosurgery faculty mentorship is particularly important to ensure that the next generation of neurologic surgeons is well equipped to treat patients, catalyze innovative research, and espouse both diverse perspectives and novel ideas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan E Radwanski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA.
| | - Nathan A Shlobin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Mani Ratnesh S Sandhu
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Lana Aldos
- Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Susan C Pannullo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA; Medical Student Neurosurgery Training Center, Brain and Spine Group, Inc., Pasadena, California, USA
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17
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Antar A, Feghali J, Wicks EE, Sattari SA, Li S, Witham TF, Brem H, Huang J. Which medical schools produce the most neurosurgery residents? An analysis of the 2014-2020 cohort. J Neurosurg 2022; 137:283-295. [PMID: 34826816 DOI: 10.3171/2021.7.jns211530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, the authors sought to determine which US medical schools have produced the most neurosurgery residents and to evaluate potential associations between recruitment and medical school characteristics. METHODS Demographic and bibliometric characteristics were collected for 1572 residents in US-based and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited neurosurgery programs over the 2014 to 2020 match period using publicly available websites. US medical school characteristics were collected, including class size, presence of a home neurosurgery program, number of clinical neurosurgery faculty, research funding, presence of a neurosurgery interest group, and a top 10 ranking via U.S. News & World Report or Doximity. Correlations and associations were then evaluated using Pearson's correlation coefficient (PCC), independent-samples t-test, and univariable or stepwise multivariable linear regression, as appropriate. RESULTS Vanderbilt University produced the most neurosurgery residents as a percentage of medical graduates at 3.799%. Case Western Reserve University produced the greatest absolute number of neurosurgery residents (n = 40). The following factors were shown to be associated with a higher mean percentage of graduates entering neurosurgery: number of clinical neurosurgery faculty (PCC 0.509, p < 0.001), presence of a neurosurgery interest group (1.022% ± 0.737% vs 0.351% ± 0.327%, p < 0.001) or home neurosurgery program (1.169% ± 0.766% vs 0.428% ± 0.327%, p < 0.001), allopathic compared with osteopathic school (0.976% ± 0.719% vs 0.232% ± 0.272%, p < 0.001), U.S. News top 10 ranking for neurology and neurosurgery (1.923% ± 0.924% vs 0.757% ± 0.607%, p < 0.001), Doximity top 10 residency program ranking (1.715% ± 0.803% vs 0.814% ± 0.688%, p < 0.001), and amount of NIH funding (PCC 0.528, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study have delineated which medical schools produced the most neurosurgery residents currently in training, and the most important independent factors predicting the percentage of graduates entering neurosurgery and the preresidency h-index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Antar
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - James Feghali
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Elizabeth E Wicks
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Shahab Aldin Sattari
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Sean Li
- 2Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Timothy F Witham
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Henry Brem
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Judy Huang
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
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18
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Ekhator C, Rak R. The Need for Improved Recruitment to Neurosurgery Training: A Systematic Review of Enrollment Strategies. Cureus 2022; 14:e26212. [PMID: 35891848 PMCID: PMC9307286 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosurgery is one of the cornerstones corresponding to a large scope of clinical pathologies and is a highly-regarded surgical specialty. However, there has been a decline in recruits into the neurosurgical residency due to many factors derailing the interest of medical students with an ambition to become neurosurgeons. Some of these issues encompass little or lack of early exposure to neurosurgery, lack of quality mentorship programs, and institutional curriculum entailing prolonged periods of training and study in neurosurgery. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aim to establish some strategic methodologies for increasing the recruitment to neurological surgery. Neurosurgery is an interestingly exciting specialty that integrates cutting-edge technology allowing for diversified subspecialization with an exceptional degree of variety. Nevertheless, several factors such as the duration of the required training, the kind of lifestyle, lack of early exposure to neurosurgery, and lack of mentors to a vast of medical students across the globe have curtailed the recruitment to neurological surgery. Despite an increased number of female representations in medical surgery, there has been a reported increase in students matching into neurosurgery, although the number is relatively below the expectation due to the factors highlighted earlier. As a result, many studies and surveys have been conducted to identify ways of improving neurosurgical recruitment. Five electronic databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library, were searched to provide pertinent information to the topic of study in strict compliance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis) guidelines. Meta-analysis was then conducted on the included studies to determine their correlations based on the individual outcomes of each study. A total of 2,134 search results were obtained, screened, and reviewed against the exclusion and inclusion criteria to remain with 12 included studies detailing improving the recruitment to neurosurgical residency. The 12 studies were retrieved for their study characteristics based on the PICO (predetermined patient, intervention, control, and outcome) standards. Most of the studies were surveys (n = 8), retrospective and prospective studies (n = 2), and pilot and multifocal studies making up for the rest (n = 2). Several neurosurgery aspects need consideration to improve the recruitment of medical students to neurosurgical fields. Medical institutions, specialists, and other stakeholders should consider reconstructing the neurosurgical curriculum to ease the prolonged study time as well as to create and encourage structural programs aimed at acquainting medical students in neurosurgery and involving the students in conducting other research projects. In addition, mentorship programs and early exposure of medical students to neurological surgery play a key role in influencing the medical students' interest in choosing neurosurgical career paths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuyem Ekhator
- Neuro-oncology, New York Institute of Technology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, USA
| | - Ramin Rak
- Neurosurgery, Rockville Center, New York, USA
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19
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Riedel M, Hennigs A, Dobberkau AM, Riedel C, Bugaj TJ, Nikendei C, Amann N, Karge A, Eisenkolb G, Tensil M, Recker F, Riedel F. The role of gender-specific factors in the choice of specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology: results from a survey among medical students in Germany. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 305:129-137. [PMID: 34550446 PMCID: PMC8782790 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06232-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The field of obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) is facing growing competition for young professionals in Germany, with high interest rates among female graduates and a declining proportion of male students who choose residency training in the field. The aim of this study is to analyze general and gender-dependent factors that influence the decision for or against specialty training in OB/GYN among medical students in Germany. METHODS Between February and November 2019, n = 346 medical students in their 5th and 6th year of undergraduate training at Heidelberg University received a questionnaire with 44 items. RESULTS n = 286 students (61.3 female; 38.7% male) participated in the study. 28% of the female students and 9% of the male students had considered OB/GYN for their specialty training. The students reported different general and gender-specific influencing factors in their choice of a specialty. Both genders desired a good work-life-balance, however, in comparison with their female colleagues, male students had heavily weighted factors related to their later careers and professional success, including competition among colleagues. Male students had gained little practical experience during compulsory internships (26.9% for females vs. 8.8% for males) or had chosen their final-year elective in OB/GYN (15.9% for females vs. 5.5% for males). Female students had worried about the negative effects of their sex on their career (35.4% for females vs. 5.9% for males). CONCLUSION OB/GYN must become more appealing and attractive to young female and male professionals alike. A better compatibility of career and family should go hand in hand with the implementation of differentiated, (extra) curricular teaching approaches that take the different preferences of female and male students into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Riedel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - André Hennigs
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Maria Dobberkau
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Caroline Riedel
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Till Johannes Bugaj
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Nikendei
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Niklas Amann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Karge
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriel Eisenkolb
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Tensil
- Kirinus Clinic for Psychotherapy, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Recker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bonn University Hospital, Bonn, Germany
| | - Fabian Riedel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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New neuroanatomy learning paradigms for the next generation of trainees: A novel literature-based 3D methodology. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 210:106948. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Huq S, Kortz MW, Johnson JN. Medical Student Research Fellowships in Neurosurgery: A Primer for Applicants and Mentors. World Neurosurg 2021; 154:39-43. [PMID: 34298137 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.07.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sakibul Huq
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael W Kortz
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jeremiah N Johnson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.
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22
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Amarouche M, Uberti M, Evans GYHR, Singh N. Women in neurosurgery: where does the United Kingdom stand? Neurosurg Focus 2021; 50:E14. [PMID: 33789224 DOI: 10.3171/2020.12.focus20957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite over half of medical students in the United Kingdom (UK) being female, women represent only a small proportion of the workforce in the traditional "male" specialties, including neurosurgery. There is increasing global attention to and awareness of gender discrimination in the workplace across several industries, including health care. The authors set out to explore the opinions and attitudes of UK neurosurgeons and neurosurgery trainees on gender issues via a large-scale national survey. The results highlight key perceptions and gaps in mentorship and leadership and provide ideas for change. This should be used as a foundation to delve deeper and to address specific questions in order to achieve a fairer, more meritocratic environment in which neurosurgeons can thrive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Amarouche
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, John Radcliffe University Hospital, Oxford
| | - Micaela Uberti
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, St. George's University Hospital, London; and
| | | | - Navneet Singh
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, St. George's University Hospital, London; and
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Barrios-Anderson A, Liu DD, Snead J, Wu E, Lee DJ, Robbins J, Aguirre J, Tang O, Garcia CM, Pucci F, Anderson MN, Syed S, Shaaya E, Gokaslan ZL. The National Student Neurosurgical Research Conference: A Research Conference for Medical Students. World Neurosurg 2020; 146:e398-e404. [PMID: 33130142 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.10.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medical students interested in neurosurgery are increasingly involved in research, and research conferences have proven valuable for developing medical research experience and exposure. A research conference was designed for medical students interested in neurosurgery to present research. METHODS Our team designed an annual research conference at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University in conjunction with the Neurosurgery and Neurology Departments. In February 2019, we hosted the first Student Neurosurgical and Neurological Research Conference (SNRC), the first national research conference, to our knowledge, designed for medical students to present neurosurgical research in the United States. The conference consisted of student poster/oral presentations, keynote speeches from clinical faculty, and surgical skills workstations. In February 2020, we hosted the second SNRC. After each conference, participants (n = 55) completed a survey to assess student perspectives of the conference. RESULTS Fifty-five medical students from around the nation attended the conferences to present their research. One hundred percent of participants affirmed that the conference fulfilled their primary reason for attending, which for most (54.5%) was the opportunity to present research. Thematic analysis revealed that students especially appreciated the "lower stress environment" and "opportunity to get feedback on their research." Notably, 97.6% of students felt the conference strengthened or increased their interest in neurosurgery. CONCLUSIONS Participants felt that the SNRC was a valuable opportunity to present research in an environment conducive for practice and improvement. Research conferences primarily for medical students may support the development of young researchers while increasing and strengthening interest in the field of neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David D Liu
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jameson Snead
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Esther Wu
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - David J Lee
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - James Robbins
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jesus Aguirre
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Oliver Tang
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Catherine M Garcia
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Francesco Pucci
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; The Brown University Department of Neurosurgery, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Matthew N Anderson
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; The Brown University Department of Neurosurgery, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sohail Syed
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; The Brown University Department of Neurosurgery, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Elias Shaaya
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; The Brown University Department of Neurosurgery, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Ziya L Gokaslan
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; The Brown University Department of Neurosurgery, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Salmas M, Fiska A, Vassiou A, Demesticha T, Paraskevas G, Chytas D. Letter to the Editor Regarding "Recruiting Medical Students to Neurosurgery Through a Focused Neuroanatomy Lab Initiative". World Neurosurg 2020; 139:707. [PMID: 32689693 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.04.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marios Salmas
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aliki Fiska
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Vassiou
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theano Demesticha
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Paraskevas
- Department of Anatomy and Surgical Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Chytas
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, European University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus; 2(nd) Orthopedic Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Nea Ionia, Greece.
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25
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Huq S, Khalafallah AM, Cohen AR, Mukherjee D. In Reply to the Letter to the Editor Regarding "Recruiting Medical Students to Neurosurgery Through a Focused Neuroanatomy Lab Initiative". World Neurosurg 2020; 139:708-709. [PMID: 32689694 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sakibul Huq
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Adham M Khalafallah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alan R Cohen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Debraj Mukherjee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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