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Time for a revival of anatomy education in postgraduate obstetrics and gynaecology training: A longitudinal analysis of anatomy knowledge
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  • Dorothea Koppes,
  • Anniko Snoeren,
  • Kim Notten,
  • Annelieke Schepens-Franke,
  • Roy Kruitwagen,
  • Fedde Scheele
Dorothea Koppes
Maastricht UMC+

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Anniko Snoeren
Maastricht University
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Kim Notten
Radboudumc
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Annelieke Schepens-Franke
Radboudumc
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Roy Kruitwagen
GROW, School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre
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Fedde Scheele
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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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