Experience Gained by Basic Surgical Trainees in Varicose Vein Surgery over a 15 Year Period - Has it Changed?

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to see if the training provided for Basic Surgical Trainees (BST's) by one consultant vascular surgeon has changed over a 15-year period.MethodFrom a computerized database we have a 15-year record of varicose vein operations identifying the first and second surgeon. We have analysed cases involving the BST and those in which the consultant operated alone. In such instances training opportunities were lost.ResultsNo change was found in the total number of cases performed, the number of operations carried by the BST as the first surgeon, or the cases performed by the consultant operating alone. The number of operations performed by a BST annually correlated positively with the total number of cases. A BST was named as first surgeon in 39% of cases (632/1622).ConclusionThis study has shown no definite evidence to support the view that training in varicose vein surgery has deteriorated.