A needs-assessment study for continuing professional development in advanced minimally invasive surgery

Background The ideal continuing professional development (CPD) model to transfer advanced minimally invasive surgical (MIS) skills to surgeons in practice has not yet been determined. Methods A survey of general surgeons practicing in Alberta was conducted to determine attitudes toward CPD with a focus on MIS colon surgery. Two separate mailings of the survey were conducted in both hard copy and e-mail format. Data were collected and analyzed. Results Seventy-one of 92 surveys were returned, yielding a response rate of 77%. The majority (62%) of surgeons had received their training while in practice. The most prevalent form of CPD was short courses, with 82% of surgeons having attended at least 1 short course in MIS. When directly comparing short courses with mentorship, 69% of respondents rated courses as less helpful, whereas 21% thought they were equivalent to mentorship. Sixty-one percent of surgeons are interested in a comprehensive approach, such as a mini-fellowship, to learning laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Conclusions General surgeons want access to different modalities of training, including both mentorship experiences and short courses. They are willing to take time away from their practices to learn new MIS skills. The best way to provide CPD to practicing surgeons is likely through a combination of teaching interventions, including courses, mentoring relationships, and the application of new technologies.