Abstract
Objective: 1) To report national standard developmental growth curves for operative procedures in otolaryngology. 2) To describe a method by which program directors can chart surgical case numbers over time to assess sufficiency of cases and parity between residents.
Method: National statistical operative log reports were obtained from the ACGME for otolaryngology graduate classes of 2009, 2010, and 2011 at set intervals during training. Mean numbers and 0.5 and 1 standard deviation from the mean were graphed against training level to create case log growth charts, akin to developmental growth charts.
Results: Case log developmental growth charts were made for each key indicator procedure and for total cases. Progress of an individual resident or of a cohort of residents may be graphed against this growth chart background over time.
Conclusion: National Operative Case Log Growth Charts allow residents and program directors to graphically assess progress in obtaining sufficient variety and number of operative procedures over time throughout training. This can provide early identification for need for intervention when residents begin to fall below the growth curve during training.
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