Current State of Plastic Surgery Residency in Nigeria: A Resident Survey Analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Plastic surgery residency training in Nigeria has evolved considerably over the last decade but still faces unique challenges. This survey aimed to elucidate the resident’s perspective on what these challenges are and offer recommendations. METHODS: A survey with 30 questions was distributed on the online plastic surgery forum in Nigeria using Google Forms. The questionnaire sought detailed information on demographics, training, confidence levels in performing various surgeries, academic involvement, satisfaction with the training environment, and suggestions for enhancing the training framework. RESULTS: Most residents were in their third year of senior registrar training (38.5%). Confidence levels in performing specific surgeries varied. Most respondents expressed confidence in tendon and nerve reconstruction (48.7%), but fewer expressed confidence in microsurgery, where 38.5% had no experience. For aesthetic surgeries, 43.6% deemed their training grossly inadequate or inadequate. Academic involvement was limited, with many residents never having authored a paper (41.0%) or presented at a conference (58.3%). Respondents reported dissatisfaction with research exposure (35.9%) but high satisfaction (69.2%) with time spent with clinical educators. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the residents’ perspective on plastic surgery training in Nigeria, with deficiencies in specific core competencies and research opportunities. Respondents advocated for a multifaceted reform approach, including providing more educational resources and establishing specialized hospitals. Addressing these concerns is critical for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of plastic surgery training in Nigeria.