SP9.13 Preparing for Surgery - A Multi-Deanery In-Person Surgical Skills Series

Abstract Aims We designed a surgical skills course to prepare aspiring surgeons for their upcoming rotations in emergency general surgery (EGS) to address the prevalent challenge of adequate skills development during clinical school/foundation training. Method In-person peer-led sessions were conducted across several trusts/deaneries for students/foundation doctors. The programme tackled common challenges previously identified by trainees working in EGS. To promote course accessibility, sessions were made free through sponsorship/volunteer faculty. Results Attendees: 27.9% non-final year, 34.9% final year, 37.2% post-qualification (n=43). Likert scores (1-10) demonstrated an increase in confidence for every domain and very positive overall scores (9.1 – 10/10). Domain assessedPre-confidence intervalPost-confidence intervalBasic Suturing3.437.43Subcuticular Suturing3.575.89Hand Tying3.147.57Laparoscopic Skills3.115.78Microsurgery2.406.60Surgical Ward Work6.708.30Research in Surgery6.707.80Leadership in Surgery6.607.80Education in Surgery6.408.30Surgical Portfolio Building6.208.30Surgical Emergencies (Simulations)5.868.00 Qualitative feedback mirrored the positive sentiments of the scores, with frequent comments on the excellent ‘ratio of tutors to attendees’ and, with one session praised as ‘some of the best teaching we’ve had on these topics’. Attendees valued the ability to receive individual feedback and access microsurgery/laparoscopic equipment typically restricted to paid courses. Conclusions Overall, this project demonstrates the need amongst clinical students/early-stage trainees for practical-based surgical teaching within foundation deaneries. highlighting the value and feasibility of a peer-led learning model in providing focused teaching and guiding upcoming sessions across the UK.