Current state of surgical oncology fellowship training in Türkiye: Results of a nationwide survey.

INTRODUCTION

Surgical oncology fellowship training plays a pivotal role in preparing surgeons for the increasing complexity of multidisciplinary cancer care. However, limited information is available regarding the current status of fellowship training in Türkiye. This study aimed to evaluate fellows' training experiences, educational environment, academic opportunities, and career expectations through a nationwide survey.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A nationwide cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted between November and December 2025 among all surgical oncology fellows actively enrolled in fellowship programs in Türkiye. The questionnaire comprised 42 items assessing demographic characteristics, operative and theoretical training, academic activities, working conditions, educational satisfaction, career expectations, and perceived training needs. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Thirty-six of 42 eligible fellows completed the survey (response rate, 85.7%). Most participants (69.4%) were satisfied with their practical surgical training, whereas only 33.3% considered their theoretical education satisfactory. Academic productivity was limited, with 77.8% reporting no authorship on an international publication during fellowship. More than half of the respondents considered the academic environment insufficient and reported limited participation in scientific meetings. Training experiences varied across centers regarding educational resources, faculty availability, compliance with mandatory rotations, and academic opportunities. Burnout symptoms were common, and substantial interest was expressed in national and international observerships, digital educational resources, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and structured academic development.

CONCLUSION

Surgical oncology fellows in Türkiye generally reported satisfaction with operative training but identified gaps in theoretical education, research opportunities, academic development, and educational standardization. These findings support ongoing efforts to strengthen fellowship training through competency-based educational strategies, enhanced academic mentorship, national accreditation, and increased international collaboration, thereby contributing to the continued advancement of multidisciplinary cancer care.