Patient Attitudes Toward Resident Participation in Cosmetic Versus Reconstructive Outpatient Consultations

Friday, April 12, 2013
Ergun Kocak, M.D., M.S.1, Katherine Carruthers, M.S.1, James McMahan, M.D., F.A.C.S.2, Anne Taylor, M.D.1, Zach Barnes, M.D.1 and Gregory Pearson, M.D.1, (1)Department of Plastic Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, (2)Advanced Aesthetic and Laser Surgery, Columbus, OH
Goals/Purpose:

The goal of plastic surgical residency is to provide trainees with exposure to all aspects of the

field so that they exit the program ready to be independent practitioners. However, in some

teaching institutions it is common practice to exclude residents from participation in

consultations with patients who are seeking cosmetic surgery. The goal of this study was to

determine whether cosmetic patients had a different view about resident involvement than

reconstructive patients and to evaluate what factors might be linked to patient attitudes on this

topic.

Methods/Technique:

All new patients were asked to complete a voluntary survey at their initial consultation. This

survey asked patients to identity themselves as either cosmetic or reconstructive and to indicate

the location on their body where they were having surgery. Additionally, a series of statements

regarding resident involvement was present with a 5-point Likert-type rating system to assess

each patient’s attitudes about a range of factors, such as resident gender and seniority.

Results/Complications:

110 patients participated in the study by completing the survey. Of this population, 56.4%

(n=62) were classified as reconstructive patients, 43.6% (n=48) were classified as cosmetic

patients. Based on responses, it was determined that reconstructive patients were more

approving of resident involvement in their care when compared to cosmetic patients. When

factors were analyzed, the body part being examined appeared to have a more significant effect

on cosmetic patients compared to reconstructive ones.

Conclusion:

Although there are some differences in the way resident participation is perceived by cosmetic

and reconstructive patient populations, neither group is strongly opposed to having residents

assist their primary physicians. Based on these findings, plastic surgery training programs

should begin to allow residents to become more involved in the care of cosmetic patients.