Konczalik W, Elsayed S, Boszczyk B. Experience of a fellowship in spinal surgery: a quantitative analysis.
EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2014;
23 Suppl 1:S40-54. [PMID:
24549385 DOI:
10.1007/s00586-014-3209-y]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 01/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The objective of our paper was to ascertain the self-reported competency level of surgeons who had completed a 1-year spine fellowship versus those who had not. Our secondary objective was to determine whether there was any difference between orthopaedic and neurosurgeons.
METHODS
A 60 question online questionnaire was provided to AOSpine Europe members for completion online.
RESULTS
289 members provided a response, of which 64% were orthopaedic surgeons and 31% neurosurgeons (5% did not specify). Eighty (28%) had completed a 1-year fellowship. Theoretical and practical knowledge of the management of spinal deformity was the greatest difference seen upon completing a fellowship. Multiple elective and emergent conditions were demonstrated to have a significant difference upon completion of a fellowship. There was no difference between orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons.
CONCLUSIONS
In order to provide an efficient and safe service covering the broad spectrum of spinal pathology, a formal spine fellowship, ideally with a formal curriculum, should be considered.
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