Anatomy is the key to mastery in cancer and general surgery: the results of a survey on anatomical knowledge among surgeons

Abstract

Introduction. Cancer and general surgery is a medical field in which anatomical knowledge is crucial. The anatomy taught to medical students is based on a standardized model of the body, with no regard paid to anatomical variations which can result in serious difficulties and disorientation during surgical procedures. Material and methods. Our goal was to assess anatomical knowledge, including anatomical variations, among surgeons. The questionnaire was administered among a group of 90 surgeons (general [69.7%] and oncological [20.2%]). The mean number of years in practice in their respective field was 12.9 ± 9.3. Results. All participants were unanimous in declaring that anatomical knowledge was required in everyday surgical practice. The responses were also consistent in describing the role of knowledge of anatomical variations, declaring it “very important” and “important” in avoiding complications (76.4%). The majority of surgeons rated their anatomical aptitude as “good” (57.3%) or “very good” (13.5%). Conclusions. The anatomical knowledge of Polish general and cancer surgeons is satisfactory.