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Evaluation of a simulation-based mini-elective on medical student interest in plastic surgery
Eva Roy, BS; Erin E. Anstadt, MD; Joseph E. Losee, MD; Vu T. Nguyen, MD; Jesse A. Goldstein, MD.
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
2020-02-15
Presenter: Eva Roy
Affidavit:
Vu T Nguyen, MD
Director Name: Vu T Nguyen, MD
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Background: Integrated plastic surgery training programs are an increasingly popular path to train plastic surgeons. It is vital to expose medical students early to the diverse field of plastic surgery to generate interest and prepare applicants for a career in plastic surgery.
Methods: A plastic surgery mini-elective was developed for pre-clinical medical students consisting of five three-hour sessions, with each week focusing on different topics including craniofacial, cleft lip and palate, microsurgery, breast, hand, aesthetics, research, and education. Sessions consisted of a lecture(s) followed by a hands-on component including a suturing session, flap design, facial drawings, hand examination, or resident panel. Sessions were taught by plastic surgery faculty and residents. A pre-course and post-course survey was administered to identify interest in, awareness of, and barriers to the field of plastic surgery.
Results: 25 students completed the pre-course survey, while 22 completed the post-course survey. Awareness of the independent and integrated path increased from 80% and 72% respectively to 100% post-course. There was a 40% increase in plastic surgery as the top residency to which students would most likely apply. 77% strongly agreed they felt more comfortable in seeking out a plastic surgery mentor. 86% plan to get involved with research. 82% strongly agreed that the mini-elective increased knowledge of plastic surgery.
Conclusions: A plastic surgery mini-elective is a positive way to increase interest and awareness in the field among pre-clinical medical students. Early exposure is critical to developing longitudinal relationships with mentors and preparing for a career in plastic surgery.
