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Still under the microscope: Can a surgical aptitude test predict otolaryngology resident performance?

Objectives/Hypothesis: Application to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residency is highly competitive, and the interview process strives to select qualified applicants with a high aptitude for the specialty. Commonly employed criteria for applicant selection have failed to show correlation with proficiency during residency training. We evaluate the correlation between the results of a surgical aptitude test administered to otolaryngology resident applicants and their performance during residency. Study Design: Retrospective study at an academic otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residency program. Methods: Between 2007 and 2013, 224 resident applicants participated in a previously described surgical aptitude test administered at a microvascular surgical station. The composite score and attitudinal scores for 24 consecutive residents who matched at our institution were recorded, and their residency performance was analyzed by faculty survey on a five-point scale. The composite and attitudinal scores were analyzed for correlation with residency performance score by regression analysis. Results: Twenty-four residents were evaluated for overall quality as a clinician by eight faculty members who were blinded to the results of surgical aptitude testing. The results of these surveys showed good inter-rater reliability. Both the overall aptitude test scores and the subset attitudinal score showed reliability in predicting performance during residency training. Conclusions: The goal of the residency selection process is to evaluate the candidate's potential for success in residency and beyond. The results of this study suggest that a simple-to-administer clinical skills test may have predictive value for success in residency and clinician quality.

• The test includes a standardized 10 minute orientation on microscope use, instrument handling, basic knot tying, a demonstration and Q&A
• Then participants given 20 minutes to pass sutures in a latex card and make knots.
• There is a standardized scoring system

Moore, E. J., Price, D. L., Van Abel, K. M., & Carlson, M. L. (2015). Still under the microscope: Can a surgical aptitude test predict otolaryngology resident performance? Laryngoscope, 125(2), E57–E61. https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.24791