Attitude of Saudi Plastic Surgery Residents Towards Pursuing Burn Practice

Abstract

Abstract Burn injuries comprise the most common accidents world-wide. The delivery of burn care has been adversely impacted by the absence of effective burn management and aesthetic services. This study attempts to address the attitude of Saudi residents of plastic surgery towards obtaining a burn fellowship, and to examine the factors that might influence their decisions in this regard. An online survey was sent to 39 plastic surgery residents in Saudi Arabia including levels from PGY 1-6 in the academic year of 2019. The questionnaire conducted to demonstrate interest, knowledge and major factors influencing or discouraging residents from choosing Burn as a sub-specialty in their future career. Residents responded to knowledge questions on a scale of three (below average/ average/ above average). The response rate was 84%. A 33 residents completed the questionnaire. The age group was between 30 and 34 years. only 27% of the respondents expressing interest in burn practice. The main factors that make the plastic surgery resident refrain from pursing burn as fellowship were: multiple operations sessions, lifestyle, financial outcome and emotional aspects. On the other hand, the paucity of burn surgeons and being involved humanitarian mission were an attracting factors. Most of the residents believe that burn must be obligatory and continue to be part of all plastic surgery training programs (100%). In Saudi Arabia, the relative paucity of specialist mentors on plastic surgery programs may limit residents’ exposure to subspecialties such as burn during plastic surgery rotational experiences. The findings from this survey may help plastic surgery program directors or burn surgeons in particular to find out strategies to attract future trainees.