The utility and benefit of a newly established postgraduate training course in surgical exposures for orthopedic and trauma surgery

Introduction Limited data exist on specialty surgical cadaver courses for graduates, their skill gain, and whether the course contents are transferable to other surgical disciplines. Aim We present the details on the establishment of a specialist trauma and orthopedics approach course, and explore educational and career outcomes from this program. Methods A 3-day surgical approach course was developed, including a dissection program utilizing Thiel embalmed cadavers. The course was accredited with the local orthopedics association. Participants were assessed by survey on acquired surgical knowledge, skill, decision-making, confidence, and on self-development and effect on career. Results Thirty-one participants successfully completed the courses over 3 years. Increases in surgical skill, knowledge, surgical decision-making and confidence were reported. Skills and confidence also positively impacted on other surgical disciplines. Courses rated highly for learning outcomes; comments highlighted usefulness, applicability, and practicing opportunities, while also impacting positively on career opportunities. Conclusion Surgical courses have shown being useful for the acquisition of skills, knowledge, confidence and decision-making, with a positive impact on confidence and decision-making. This information is relevant to future participants, benefactors, surgical programs, and tertiary institutions who want to establish specialist surgical courses.