Time for a revival of anatomy education in postgraduate obstetrics and
gynaecology training: A longitudinal analysis of anatomy knowledge
Abstract
Objective: To determine the anatomy knowledge in postgraduate obstetrics
and gynaecology trainees. Our hypothesis was that trainees possess a
good knowledge of anatomy and, on average, would correctly answer at
least 80% of questions on core anatomy knowledge. Design: A 10-year
longitudinal study. Setting: This study included the results from annual
progress tests over 10 years (2010–2019) that were completed by Dutch
obstetrics and gynaecology postgraduates. Population: Dutch trainees in
the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. Methods: Anatomy questions
included in a yearly progress test were assessed for their relevance.
Relevance was determined according to a previous Delphi study, which
identified 86 structures that are essential for the safe and competent
practice of general gynaecologists. Scores on relevant anatomy questions
were calculated. Main Outcome Measures: The mean percentage correct
answers. Results: Of all 1637 questions of the yearly progress test, 54
were anatomy-related questions (3.3%). Of these 54 questions, 38 (70%)
were considered as relevant questions. The mean 10-year correct response
rate on relevant questions was 64.5%. Conclusions: The anatomy
knowledge of obstetrics and gynaecology trainees is insufficient. Our
results highlight the need to test and improve anatomy knowledge during
postgraduate obstetrics and gynaecology training. Funding: None.
Keywords: anatomy knowledge, progress testing, obstetrics and
gynaecology, postgraduate training