427 Optimization of Morbidity and Mortality Conference: Results of a Multi-center Pilot at Neurosurgical Training Programs

INTRODUCTION: Neurosurgical morbidity and mortality (M technique; procedure; judgment; nature of disease. Follow-up intervention was drafted for each case. Surveys were distributed to trainees and attending neurosurgeons before and after the pilot to assess the new format compared to historical standard. RESULTS: A total of 302 surveys were returned from attending and resident physicians. Seventy-four % of respondents found the new format to be an improvement (“slightly improved” or “much improved”) and Eight-five % expressed preference for the new standardized format. Fifty-two % of resident respondents believed engagement at the conference was increased. Twenty-six % responded that significant process improvements resulted from the standardized format. CONCLUSIONS: This 3-month pilot to optimize neurosurgical M&M conference, undertaken at ten neurosurgery training programs, received favorable reviews by survey. Respondents endorsed high levels of faculty & resident engagement. Case categorization by error was favorably reviewed. Significant process improvements were only noted by a minority of respondents, however, perhaps related to the short duration of the pilot. Overall these results suggest that future amplification of a standardized M&M format across neurosurgical training programs could yield high satisfaction and enhanced resident engagement. Additional attention focused on process improvement will be critical.