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Training tomorrow's laryngologists – head and neck training alone is not sufficient

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 September 2013

N De Zoysa
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK
N Amin*
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK
M Harries
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr N Amin, 34 Wykeham Rd, Kenton HA3 8LJ, UK E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Background:

Diagnostic ability is essential in laryngology. The UK Higher Surgical Training syllabus includes competencies specific to laryngology. This study aimed to identify the factors in training that lead to a consultant level of laryngology-related diagnostic ability.

Method:

An online test of training experience was constructed using laryngoscopy videos obtained from a specialist UK voice clinic. Participation was aimed at both trainees and trainers via invitation through national ENT forums.

Results:

There were 51 complete responses. Trainees with six months of laryngology experience scored significantly higher than those without this experience (p < 0.001). There was no improvement in score demonstrated for those with head and neck specialty experience without laryngology experience. Trainees who had completed 12 months of laryngology, or 6 months of laryngology coupled with 12 months of head and neck training, scored similarly to their consultant trainers.

Conclusion:

It is recommended that all trainees have at least six months of experience in a specialist voice or laryngology placement prior to gaining the Certificate of Completion of Training.

Type
Main Articles
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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