1
|
Qedair J, Ezzi S, AlMadani R, Alsamin SI, Almeneif HA, Hakami AY, Alobaid A. Neurosurgery Residents' Satisfaction Toward Their Saudi Training Program: Insights from a National Survey. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e867-e877. [PMID: 38447740 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.143] [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: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the high-stakes nature of their work, neurosurgery residents face constant pressure and require high-quality training to succeed. We aim to investigate the satisfaction levels of residents with their Saudi Neurosurgery Residency Training Program (SNRTP) and its influential factors. METHODS This is a nationwide, cross-sectional study that employed a questionnaire, structured based on the relevant literature, which was disseminated to neurosurgery residents, commencing from December 2021 and culminating in September 2022. RESULTS A total of 70 out of 143 neurosurgery residents were included, giving a response rate of 48.9%. Most participants (62.9%) aged 24-28 years old, 55.7% were males, and 40.0% were from the Central region of Saudi Arabia. The residents were further divided into juniors (R1-R3; 64.3%) and seniors (R4-R6; 35.7%). Approximately 13.3% of the juniors were satisfied with the SNRTP, whereas only 8.0% of the seniors were satisfied. Dissatisfaction rates over the SNRTP were significantly higher in the seniors (68.0%) compared to the juniors (28.9%; P = 0.006). The frequency of operating room sessions per week and presence of protected research time were the only 2 factors significantly associated with the junior and senior residents' satisfaction, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The SNRTP has a vision to provide the society with elite competent neurosurgeons. However, we found a degree of dissatisfaction among the residents, indicating a need for improving the SNRTP's policies. We recommend incorporating more hands-on training opportunities, implementing a mentorship model, setting tailored teaching sessions, and establishing resident wellness programs. We hope this study initiate dialogue on promoting residents' satisfaction and overall well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jumanah Qedair
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Suzana Ezzi
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad AlMadani
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah I Alsamin
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham A Almeneif
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alqassem Y Hakami
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alobaid
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neurosciences Institute, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wani FA, Alanazi KM, Alblwan AS. Factors Affecting the Choice of Neurosurgery as a Future Career: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e52836. [PMID: 38406169 PMCID: PMC10884721 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Selecting a specialty is a very important and stressful decision that students must make, as it will have a lasting impact on their professional lives. Medical students could gain insight into a variety of specialties during their clinical years, especially the work environment in different specialties. Numerous factors can influence this decision, such as work-life balance, lifestyle, and gender differences. The goal of our study is to demonstrate the different factors, both attractive and deterrent, that influence neurosurgery selection as a future specialty among students. Also, we will consider the exposure-related geographical distribution of the neurosurgery field regarding conferences and workshops, as well as the availability of university professors and their impact on the interest of students in the specialty. Methods A cross-sectional study spanning from June 2023 to September 2023 was conducted among students at medical colleges across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. All medical students from the second medical year up to the internship were invited to take part in the study. Non-medical students, first-year medical students, and incomplete questionnaires were excluded. Employing a stratified random sampling technique, we ensured diverse representation, eventually gathering data from 1141 participants. Results The study involved a diverse group of 1141 medical students and interns, with an average age of 21.7 years. Among them, 683 (59.9%) were female. Approximately half of the participants, 572 (50.1%), express an interest in pursuing a career in neurosurgery, and a significant portion of respondents find neurosurgery appealing due to its challenging nature (50.9%). On the other hand, stress emerged as the most significant deterrent factor (50.3%). Among educational levels, interns, 39 (28.3%), showed the least interest, while second-year students, 193 (64.8%), exhibited the highest interest (p < 0.001*). The analysis revealed statistically significant gender differences in factors. Specifically, a higher percentage of females found "interested in neuroscience" to be the most attractive factor compared to males (18.2% vs. 15.5%, p < 0.001*). Regarding deterring factors, a greater percentage of males found "risk" as the most deterring factor compared to females (19.2% vs. 17.1%, p = 0.001*). Conclusion We found no significant age variation in the most attractive factors; however, significant gender differences in attractive and deterrent factors were observed. The "risk" associated with neurosurgery was the most deterring factor for students across different cumulative grade point average (CGPA) ranges and for students from the eastern and central areas. Our findings suggest that most factors are consistently attractive or deterring across different educational and clinical levels, emphasizing the stability of these perceptions throughout medical education. We propose innovative educational initiatives with increased faculty participation to implement the curricula with early exposure of students to neurosurgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farooq A Wani
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, SAU
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Almalki SF, Almousa AS, Alarfaj AK, Alwadany MM, Al Wadani AF, Ibrahim Daoud MY, Zakaria OM. Factors Shaping Medical Students' Intentions Toward Neurosurgery: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e51107. [PMID: 38274910 PMCID: PMC10809298 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Choosing a medical specialty poses a significant challenge for students, with initial fascinations often evolving during their academic journey. Despite its inherent appeal, neurosurgery faces hesitancy among undergraduate students, potentially due to perceived difficulties and time demands. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing medical students' intentions toward neurosurgery at two institutions in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing a validated, anonymous questionnaire distributed electronically to medical students and interns in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire comprised two sections, namely, demographic and academic profiles, and participants' intentions, knowledge, and attitudes toward neurosurgery. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, and chi-square tests to explore relationships and identify significant predictors. Results Of the participants, 197 (34.1%) expressed interest in neurosurgery, but only 94 (16.3%) had a comprehensive understanding of the field. Motivations included high income, specialty prestige, and positive impact on patients, while stress and work-life balance were common deterring factors. Age and academic years were associated with a gradual decrease in interest, except for initial medical school students. Participants were attracted to innovative technological aspects, while high competition and neurophobia were deterring factors. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive analysis of determinants influencing medical students' and interns' interest in neurosurgery. Early exposure, clinical training, and personal motivations play significant roles in shaping career preferences. Challenges, such as perceived difficulties and concerns related to work-life balance, need targeted interventions to enhance neurosurgery's attractiveness. Considerations extend beyond technical and academic facets to encompass personal and lifestyle dimensions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sami F Almalki
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Abdulelah S Almousa
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Abdullah K Alarfaj
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Muhannad M Alwadany
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Abdullah F Al Wadani
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | | | - Ossama M Zakaria
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alghamdi KT, Alamoudi AA, Bomonther MA, Alasmari HA, Nejaim KH, Samman AM, Alzahrani MT, Algahtani AY. Factors affecting the choice of becoming a neurosurgeon in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:424. [PMID: 36324952 PMCID: PMC9610601 DOI: 10.25259/sni_226_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The preference of medical specialty for students can start even before enrollment into medical school, or as late as following their graduation. During their senior years, students often get a prospective on the working environment and the difficulties faced in the field. This, along with other factors, can strongly alter their career choice. This study aims to explore the degree of interest in neurosurgical specialty among medical students and the factors influencing their choice of becoming a neurosurgeon in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study which was done across three universities of the western region of Saudi Arabia including King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Umm Al Qura University, and King Abdulaziz University. Results: A sample of 1023 students from the second medical year up to the internship was conducted, and out of them, 585 (57.2%) were males and 438 (42.8%) were females. Three hundred and fifty-nine (35.1%) of the students were interested in neurosurgery, while 664 (64.9%) were not. The data show that females have more interest (40.8% of females) compared to males (35.1% of males). Furthermore, there was a general trend toward a decrease in the interest in neurosurgery with time. The impact on patients “rewarding feeling” was the most reported attraction to the specialty, followed by income. Stress was the most reported deterring factor among students. Neurosurgery is one of the most challenging specialties, yet it is still considered one of the most competitive ones. Conclusion: Many factors have been found to influence medical students’ choices to apply for neurosurgical training as we described. Interestingly, we noted higher interest among female students, and among college freshmen compared to their counterparts. Further studies should be conducted on a larger scale to analyze these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Talal Alghamdi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Abdullah Alamoudi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Haitham Ali Alasmari
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kenan Hatem Nejaim
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afnan Mahfouz Samman
- Department of Surgery, Section of Neurosurgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moajeb Turki Alzahrani
- Department of Surgery, Section of Neurosurgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulhadi Y. Algahtani
- Department of Surgery, Section of Neurosurgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pahwa B, Kalyani M, Jain I, Bhattacharjee S. Will you choose neurosurgery as your career? An Indian female medical student perspective. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 105:1-8. [PMID: 36049362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.08.015] [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: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim at recognising the reasons that discourage female medical students to consider neurosurgery as a career, from an Indian perspective. METHODOLOGY An online survey was disseminated in various medical colleges of India. The study included female medical students (both cis and trans). The questionnaire consisted of objective questions on mentorship, opportunities and exposure. Their concerns on long working hours and the reasons for the same were recorded. RESULTS 348 responses were included of which 79.9 % of students felt they didn't receive proper exposure to neurosurgery in their medical school. 87.4 % of the respondents faced a lack of opportunity and mentorship for research. 65.2 % of students felt that they would be more interested in neurosurgery if a female professor were to mentor them. Long working hours and Reduced Family and Personal time were identified as statistically significant factors (p < 0.001) that play a role in demotivating female medical students towards neurosurgery. Altered quality of life was the most frequent (79.49 %) and significant reason (p = 0.004) as to why long working hours were a concern for them. 65.07 % of participants did not consider physical strength to be a hurdle (p = 0.008). Approximately 37.6 % participants felt that maternity and neurosurgery could be incompatible (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS The study brings out the notions that female medical students have regarding the long working hours and decreased family and personal time, complicated by pregnancy and maternal leave in the life of female neurosurgeon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhavya Pahwa
- University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital, New Delhi, India.
| | | | - Ishika Jain
- North DMC Medical College & Hindu Rao Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Suchanda Bhattacharjee
- Additional. Professor Department of Neurosurgery, Nizam's Institute Of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pascual JSG, Ignacio KHD, Khu KJO. Paving the Path to Wellness: A Systematic Review of Wellness Programs for Neurosurgery Trainees. World Neurosurg 2021; 152:206-213.e5. [PMID: 34146737 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.06.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurosurgical trainees have a heavy workload and poor quality of life, resulting in high rates of burnout and attrition. Consequently, wellness programs have been used by various training institutions to combat this situation. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify and describe wellness programs available for neurosurgical trainees in their training institutions, the outcome measures used to assess them, and their efficacy. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was made following PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Six studies were included in the review, describing wellness programs from 9 institutions. All programs except 1 used exercise as the core component. The other components included physical and mental well-being lectures, team-building activities, and cultural excursions. Most institutions used piloted satisfaction and perception questionnaires to assess efficacy. Trainee perceptions of wellness programs were generally positive, but the responses on validated questionnaires and surveys were mixed. Barriers to the program included lack of institutional support, time constraints, fatigue, and feelings of guilt in prioritizing wellness over patient care. CONCLUSIONS There is a paucity of literature regarding trainee wellness in neurosurgery. A few training programs have instituted wellness initiatives for trainees, and the feedback was generally positive. However, objective measures of efficacy such as validated questionnaires and scales yielded mixed results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Silvestre G Pascual
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Katrina Hannah D Ignacio
- Division of Adult Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Kathleen Joy O Khu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ali NUA, Ali SM, Sharif S, Amin F. Benchmarking of Neurosurgery Training in Pakistan. Asian J Neurosurg 2021; 16:300-306. [PMID: 34268155 PMCID: PMC8244705 DOI: 10.4103/ajns.ajns_426_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Neurosurgery is a challenging field of surgery. A neurosurgeon has to be trained with the finest skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to provide high-quality patient care. Maintaining postgraduate training standards is a challenge in Pakistan due to low budget allocation to the health sector. This study aims to assess the difference in parameters among different institutes in different sectors and provinces offering neurosurgery training in Pakistan. Methods: A nationwide survey was conducted by the Neurosurgery Department at Liaquat National Hospital Karachi, from November 2019 to February 2020. Data were collected through a questionnaire from neurosurgery trainees from all over the country. The questionnaire was divided into the following sections: Sociodemographics and infrastructure of training site, clinical skills training and exposure, knowledge-based education, and workload. The data were kept confidential and institutional names were not inquired or disclosed. Results: The response rate was 85.3% (151/177), with more males (80%) than females. The total number of trainees was higher in government than private institutions (P < 0.005). The frequency (P = 0.030) and number of trainees (P < 0.005) inducted per cycle was more among government institutions. Participation in international conferences was higher among trainees in private sector (P = 0.006). The frequency of clinics was significantly higher in private institutions (P < 0.005), though the number of patients seen per clinic was lower than in government sector (P < 0.005). At a provincial level, there was a significant difference in gender distribution (P = 0.020), total number of trainees (P < 0.005), number of residents per induction (P < 0.005), frequency of mortality and morbidity meetings (P < 0.005), morning meetings (P < 0.005), number of calls per week (P < 0.005), number of workshops attended (P < 0.005), exposure to radiation (P = 0.003), frequency of outpatient departments (OPDs) attended per week (P = 0.002), and number of patients seen per OPD (P 0.02). Conclusion: This study reported variability in the quality of neurosurgery training programs within public and private sector with even greater differences between the four provinces of Pakistan. We recommend continuous assessments and re-accreditation of these training programs through subject experts and health-care educationists to improve the quality of training programs; hence the quality of service and patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noor-Ul-Ain Ali
- Department of Neurosurgery, Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Maroof Ali
- Department of Neurosurgery, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Salman Sharif
- Department of Family Medicine, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Faridah Amin
- Family Medicine, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Association between Graduate Degrees and Publication Productivity in Academic Neurosurgery. Can J Neurol Sci 2020; 47:666-674. [DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2020.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT:Object:Many neurosurgeons pursue graduate degrees as part of their training. In some jurisdictions, graduate degrees are considered a necessary condition of employment in academic neurosurgery. However, the relationship between possession of a graduate degree and eventual research productivity is not well established. We used bibliometric methods to analyze publications from academic Canadian neurosurgeons, with an emphasis on level of graduate training.Methods:All neurosurgeons holding academic appointments at Canadian institutions from 2012–2016 were included. Over that time frame, Scopus was used to quantify the number of papers, number of citations, 5-year h-index and 5-year r-index, CiteScore, authorship position, and paper type (clinical or basic science). Publication output was compared between neurosurgeons grouped as MD-only, MD-Masters, or MD-PhD.Results:In total, 2557 abstracts from 131 Canadian neurosurgeons were analyzed. We found that MD-Masters neurosurgeons published significantly more total papers, clinical papers, and first/last author papers than MD-only neurosurgeons. MD-PhD neurosurgeons had the same findings, in addition to more basic science papers, in journals with a higher CiteScore, 5-year h-index, and 5-year r-index than both other groups. These results were preserved even with significant outliers removed. There was no difference if graduate degrees were obtained before or after starting residency. There was no correlation with career length and number of recent papers published.Conclusion:The attainment of a graduate degree has an important association with future publication productivity for academic neurosurgeons. These data should be useful for hiring committees considering the value of graduate degrees from applicants for positions in academic neurosurgery.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bahji A, Altomare J. Prevalence of intimidation, harassment, and discrimination among resident physicians: a systematic review and meta-analysis. CANADIAN MEDICAL EDUCATION JOURNAL 2020; 11:e97-e123. [PMID: 32215147 PMCID: PMC7082478 DOI: 10.36834/cmej.57019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of intimidation, harassment, and discrimination (IHD) reported by resident physicians during their training, to identify factors associated with reported IHD, and to identify adverse sequalae associated with IHD. METHODS This review followed the PRISMA guidelines. Eight electronic databases were searched for cross-sectional studies reporting the prevalence of IHD among resident physicians. Prevalence estimates were pooledacross studies using random-effects meta-analysis, with variance stabilization using Tukey double arcsine transformation. Heterogeneity was assessed with forest plots, the I 2 statistic, subgroup analyses, and multivariate meta-regression. RESULTS 52 cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of IHD was 64.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 51.0-77.1). Verbal, physical, and sexual IHD were the most common forms of IHD reported by residents. Training status (55.5%), gender (41.7%), and ethnicity (20.6%) were the most commonly cited risk factors for IHD. The most common sources of IHD were relatives/friends of patients, nurses, and patients (cited by 50.7%, 47.8, and 41.7%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of IHD among resident physicians is high and associated with multiple negative outcomes, including burnout. Despite the availability of multiple anti-IHD interventions, reports of IHD appear to be rising in many residency programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
- Correspondence: Anees Bahji, MC PGY5, Department of Psychiatry, Queen’s UniversityMSc Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Abramsky Hall, Room 328, 21 Arch Street,Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6; tel: 613 533-6000 ext. 33355; fax: 613 533-6388;
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Staudt MD. Neurosurgical Training in Canada: Changing Landscape with Ongoing Challenges. World Neurosurg 2019; 132:26-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.08.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
11
|
Bergeron D, Iorio-Morin C, Bigder M, Dakson A, Eagles ME, Elliott CA, Honey CM, Kameda-Smith MM, Persad ARL, Touchette CJ, Tso MK, Fortin D. Mobile Applications in Neurosurgery: A Systematic Review, Quality Audit, and Survey of Canadian Neurosurgery Residents. World Neurosurg 2019; 127:e1026-e1038. [PMID: 30980978 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past decade, smartphone applications (Apps) have experienced remarkable development across all fields of medicine, including neurosurgery. However, owing to a lack of regulatory oversight and peer review, a clear need exists for a comprehensive review and audit of the existing available Apps. In the present study, we systematically reviewed the existing mobile Apps in neurosurgery, evaluated their clinical use by neurosurgery residents in Canada, and performed a quality audit of the most popular Apps. METHODS Indexed Apps were identified from either the Google Play Store or the iOS App Store using a comprehensive list of keywords related to neurosurgery. A subsequent cross-sectional survey of 76 Canadian neurosurgery residents was conducted, including a section on smartphone App use. We next evaluated the most popular Apps among the residents using the Healthcare Smartphone App Evaluation Tool and performed a quality audit of their content using established medical references. RESULTS The survey identified 118 mobile Apps related to neurosurgery. The 3 most used Apps used by the current cohort of Canadian neurosurgery residents were Neurosurgery Survival Guide, Neuromind, and the Journal of Neurosurgery App. Each of these 3 Apps received an excellent score on the Healthcare Smartphone App Evaluation Tool. A quality audit of 30 pages of the Neurosurgery Survival Guide and 40 clinical scores of the Neuromind App, performed by 10 neurosurgery residents, failed to reveal inaccurate or false statements. CONCLUSION The present study has highlighted the current landscape of neurosurgery mobile Apps and their use among neurosurgery residents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Bergeron
- Division of Neurosurgery, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Mark Bigder
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ayoub Dakson
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Dalhousie, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Matthew E Eagles
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cameron A Elliott
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - C Michael Honey
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Amit R L Persad
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Charles J Touchette
- Division of Neurosurgery, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael K Tso
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - David Fortin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Neurosurgical Residency Training in Latin America: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Opportunities. World Neurosurg 2018; 120:e1079-e1097. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.08.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|