Analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education in medical residences of general surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a reduction or even cessation of all elective activities in hospitals, such as classes and non-urgent surgical procedures. Objective: To assess the impact of the pandemic on General Surgery residencies. Method: Cross-sectional observational study to collect data from questionnaires to assess the approximate volume of operations performed by residents and the perception of the development/retention of surgical skills, with responses obtained through Likert-type questionnaires, applied to resident physicians in General Surgery during a pre-pandemic period (2019) and/or during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020). Results: There was a significant difference in the volume of elective procedures performed in the first and second years of residency. Most participants partially or totally agreed with the statement “Was there any damage to my training in the general surgery residency due to the COVID-19 pandemic?”. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a reduction in the volume of elective procedures, affecting teaching in medical residency. Studies on the subject are needed to propose rectification in the learning gaps of the affected professionals.