Introduction: The surgical management of trauma is an important aspect of training in general surgery. The aim of this study is to assess the current levels of experience in trauma management and attitudes towards adequacy of exposure amongst current trainees in New Zealand.
Method: An anonymous survey assessing experience in trauma management posted to all New Zealand general surgical trainees in Surgical Education and Training (SET) years two to five.
Results: 21 of 62 trainees responded. There was little correlation between SET levels or months of registrar experience and number of operations performed, which ranged from 0 to 22. 81% of trainees felt their exposure to trauma operations was inadequate. The average supervision rate for operating was 73%. The majority of trainees showed an interest in trauma with 76% replying yes, with four answering maybe, and one no. 100% of trainees felt that training in trauma was at least somewhat important.
Discussion: Experience and training in trauma care is very important but currently inadequate to allow the safe delivery of surgical treatment for injured patients by well-trained surgeons. Surgical training needs to be reorganised, using all available clinical and simulation resources to ensure this critical skills area is maintained for all trainees.