Karthikesalingam A, Buxton P, Marron C, Oshin OA, Scurr JR, and Wall M. Rouleaux Club. Deficiencies persist in the experience of UK vascular trainees: a survey of Rouleaux Club members. Vasc Endovascular Surg.2012 Jul;46(5):358-63.Epub 2012 Jun 3.

PMID: 22665439

Abstract

AIMS:
To evaluate the training experience of the current United Kingdom (UK) vascular trainees.

METHODS:
A Web-based questionnaire was administered to 217 members of the Rouleaux Club, which represents UK vascular and endovascular trainees, between May and June 2011.

RESULTS:
A total of 153 trainees (71% response rate) completed the survey; 52% were in posts that do not offer endovascular training, 88% performed <10 peripheral angiograms, and 67% performed part or all of <10 endovascular aneurysm repairs in the last year. Half had no access to formal ultrasound training; 85% believe that vascular access will play a role in their future practice, but 49% performed no vascular access procedures in the past year. No experience of endovenous laser, radiofrequency ablation, or foam sclerotherapy was reported by 33%, 49%, and 46%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:
Trainee experience is insufficient for a modern specialist practice. Separate specialty training in the United Kingdom must address these deficiencies.