Article

Numerous studies have shown that deficiencies exist in orthopaedic
and musculoskeletal medical training resulting in students and doctors regularly
failing basic orthopaedic exams. However, there have not been any studies
addressing the attitudes of medical students towards the orthopaedic subspecialties.
This study aimed (i) to determine if foot and ankle
surgery was the orthopaedic specialty with which students and doctors have the
most difficulty, (ii) to appraise attitudes towards teaching of foot and ankle
surgery, and (iii) to suggest ways teaching might be improved. METHODS: A
questionnaire on orthopaedic teaching was given to 238 medical students in
Ireland. Perceived difficulties with foot and ankle surgery were compared to
seven other orthopaedic subspecialties and the results were analysed. Other
aspects of teaching were assessed including why foot and ankle surgery is
perceived as difficult and ways teaching could be improved. RESULTS: Foot and
ankle surgery is the orthopaedic subspecialty with which medical students and
doctors have the most difficulty, least confidence and poorest knowledge in. This
was due to: perceived complexity; insufficient exposure; and a lack of teaching.
CONCLUSION: Foot and ankle surgery is the least popular of the orthopaedic
subspecialties and considerable deficiencies exist in its education.
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Langue : ANGLAIS