The current standard of Foot and Ankle Fellowship in the UK

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the current standards of Fellowship training in Foot and Ankle Surgery Fellowship in the UK.

Methods: Thirteen UK post-FRCS (Tr&Orth) or equivalent Fellows completed a questionnaire detailing their outpatient, surgical, teaching and research experience, along with documenting their supervision and terms of employment.

Results: A Fellow attended a mean of 2.5 (0.5-4) clinics and 3.84 (2-7) theatre sessions per week. 62% of Fellows had independent clinics. The three largest sub-specialty areas experienced were forefoot surgery, mid or/hindfoot arthritis and deformity correction. 82% of Fellows had a regular MDT meeting. All were involved in both teaching and research, but only 64% had timetabled research sessions. All Fellows were satisfied with their experience and would recommended the Fellowship.

Conclusions: The current standard of a post FRCS (Tr&Orth) Fellowship in Foot & Ankle surgery in the UK has been defined. Further improvement will require all Fellows to be involved in a regular MDT meetings, work in an independent clinic, have guaranteed timetabled research time and a ring fenced study leave budget.

Keywords: Fellowships; Foot & Ankle; Operative experience; Research; Surgical education; Training.