Teaching the Next Generation of Surgeons

Mr Peter Domos, Shoulder and Elbow Consultant at Total Orthopaedics, helped lead and organise the Orthopaedic Research UK (ORUK) Online London Shoulder and Elbow FRCS (Orth) revision course.

The two-day course at the end of March was held online to ensure the COVID-19 pandemic would not interrupt teaching of the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons. Mr Domos was involved in educating 35 candidates who are preparing for their final Orthopaedic examinations or equivalent, plus trainees who are in their earlier years of training. The course aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of shoulder and elbow conditions relevant for the FRCS exam with dedicated Viva sessions to practise. Mr Domos was one of the course convenors who helped to organise the curriculum, agenda, timetable and speakers.

The collaboration between Total Orthopaedics and ORUK (Orthopaedic Research UK) is unique, with only one other course based in the UK teaching these topics. Other shoulder and elbow specialists from Total Orthopaedics were also involved. Mr Rupen Dattani held a 45 minute lecture and a 15 minute Q&A session, alongside Mr Dan Rossouw, who held a three hour Viva session with candidates as an experienced FRCS examiner. The Viva sessions provided attendees with an opportunity to defend their thesis, which assists examiners in deciding whether or not they have met the requirements for their degree.

The aim is to hold the course annually following the success of this year, with the hopes of upcoming courses to take place in person. 

Organising and training colleagues at events like this aligns with the Total Orthopaedics governance structure, which includes continued education of the entire team. The education ethos at Total Orthopaedics plays an important role in ensuring the best possible care is provided to patients.