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European Spine Journal
Published in: European Spine Journal 1/2014

01-04-2014 | Original Article

Experience of a fellowship in spinal surgery: a quantitative analysis

Authors: Wojciech Konczalik, Sherief Elsayed, Bronek Boszczyk

Published in: European Spine Journal | Special Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Objectives

The objective of our paper was to ascertain the self-reported competency level of surgeons who had completed a 1-year spine fellowship versus those who had not. Our secondary objective was to determine whether there was any difference between orthopaedic and neurosurgeons.

Methods

A 60 question online questionnaire was provided to AOSpine Europe members for completion online.

Results

289 members provided a response, of which 64 % were orthopaedic surgeons and 31 % neurosurgeons (5 % did not specify). Eighty (28 %) had completed a 1-year fellowship. Theoretical and practical knowledge of the management of spinal deformity was the greatest difference seen upon completing a fellowship. Multiple elective and emergent conditions were demonstrated to have a significant difference upon completion of a fellowship. There was no difference between orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons.

Conclusions

In order to provide an efficient and safe service covering the broad spectrum of spinal pathology, a formal spine fellowship, ideally with a formal curriculum, should be considered.
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Metadata
Title
Experience of a fellowship in spinal surgery: a quantitative analysis
Authors
Wojciech Konczalik
Sherief Elsayed
Bronek Boszczyk
Publication date
01-04-2014
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Spine Journal / Issue Special Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-014-3209-y

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