Vascular surgery training, exposure, and knowledge during general surgery residency: implications for the future

Background Vascular surgery (VS) has been removed from the Canadian general surgery (GS) objectives and has become a primary certificate specialty in the United States, leaving its status in GS uncertain. The purpose of this study was to determine GS residents’ perceived competence in VS and to assess their knowledge of VS. Methods GS residents at a university-based program answered (1) a survey of attitudes and experience in VS and (2) a short-answer examination to assess fundamental vascular knowledge. Results Twenty-nine of 35 residents participated (83%). Residents reported being inadequately trained in 10 of 13 procedures surveyed despite 6 of these being reported as essential. Although 26 of 29 residents reported an intention to perform vascular procedures, none planned on pursuing a fellowship. The mean examination score was 47%. Conclusions Despite mandatory VS rotations, GS residents feel inadequately trained in VS and have marginal knowledge. Current trainees may lack the skills and abilities to deal with vascular emergencies.