The utility and benefit of a newly established postgraduate training course in surgical exposures for orthopedic and trauma surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Limited data exist on specialty surgical cadaver courses for graduates, their skill gain, and whether the course contents are transferable to other surgical disciplines.

AIM: We present the details on the establishment of a specialist trauma and orthopedics approach course, and explore educational and career outcomes from this program.

METHODS: A 3-day surgical approach course was developed, including a dissection program utilizing Thiel embalmed cadavers. The course was accredited with the local orthopedics association. Participants were assessed by survey on acquired surgical knowledge, skill, decision-making, confidence, and on self-development and effect on career.

RESULTS: Thirty-one participants successfully completed the courses over 3 years. Increases in surgical skill, knowledge, surgical decision-making and confidence were reported. Skills and confidence also positively impacted on other surgical disciplines. Courses rated highly for learning outcomes; comments highlighted usefulness, applicability, and practicing opportunities, while also impacting positively on career opportunities.

CONCLUSION: Surgical courses have shown being useful for the acquisition of skills, knowledge, confidence and decision-making, with a positive impact on confidence and decision-making. This information is relevant to future participants, benefactors, surgical programs, and tertiary institutions who want to establish specialist surgical courses.