Surgical trainee education in benign anorectal disease: a scoping review

Abstract

Background

Benign anorectal diseases such as haemorrhoids, perianal abscesses and fistulas are prevalent and disabling conditions that can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

This review aims to evaluate current education for training doctors around these diseases to inform the revision and development of surgical curricula.

Materials and methods

A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase and Google Scholar and data from included articles were charted in a semi-structured table. Quantitative outcomes were presented using simple descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis framework.

Results

Ten studies were included. Most education was centred around haemorrhoids and delivered in the format of lectures and simulations. Harnessing the benefits of both on-demand and in-person content was key to optimising education delivery. In simulation studies, low-fidelity models were generally sufficient to meet educational objectives. There was universal agreement that the purpose of education was to supplement or prepare for clinical exposure, rather than to replace or ‘bridge gaps’ in experience. Education was found to be most useful and relevant when delivered to junior surgical or non-surgical cohorts.

Conclusions

This review elucidates gaps in current literature on benign anorectal disease education and provides recommendations for the development and implementation of future education for surgical trainees. There is a need for education that addresses a broader range of anorectal conditions and has a greater focus on the retention and clinical translation of acquired knowledge and skills. Interventions should be designed to enhance clinical exposure and maintain relevance throughout training progression.