The future of coloproctology in the UK: the trainees view.

INTRODUCTION

Major changes are imminent in the mode of surgical training and the manner both ''general'' and ''specialist'' surgeons provide services. This is the first interactive survey of UK Coloproctology trainees.

METHODS

At the 2004 DUKES Club (colorectal trainees) meeting an interactive digital-media voting system enabled blinded assessment of members regarding training and organisational issues in Coloproctology.

RESULTS

78% of trainees intended to be colorectal specialists. 92% thought a specialist qualification necessary, 90% believed it should be administered at the time of certificate of completion of training (CCT). Overall, 40%, 40% and 20% would pay 1000 <, 1000-3000 pounds and > 5000 pounds respectively per year for adequate training. Over 80% thought low anterior resection, APER, major lower GI-bleeding, pelvic floor, IBD and rectal cancer surgery should only be performed by specialists, and many thought colonic cancer surgery (46%), diverticular surgery (52%), and perianal sepsis (38%) management was a specialist necessity.

CONCLUSION

UK Colorectal trainees believe a specialist exam necessary, colorectal specialists should treat a defined group of conditions/cases and would pay for adequate training.