The availability of training in the laparoscopic management of ectopic pregnancy

Objective To assess the availability of laparoscopic treatment for ectopic pregnancy, and the availability of training in such laparoscopic techniques, in the Yorkshire Deanery (training region). Design A postal questionnaire was distributed to all trainees in the Yorkshire Deanery with a national or visiting training number (denoting eligibility for CCST). Results 60 trainees were identified of whom 59 (98%) returned completed questionnaires. Whilst the majority of trainees had observed or assisted with laparoscopic surgery for ectopic pregnancy in their current hospital, only 37% had performed such surgery themselves and only 36% considered that they would be able to achieve appropriate training at that hospital. One or more consultants were offering laparoscopic treatment for ectopic pregnancy in 13 out of the 15 hospitals in the deanery. However, in only five of these hospitals did the majority of trainees consider that they would be able to achieve appropriate training in these techniques. Conclusion Although the majority of hospitals have at least one consultant able to undertake laparoscopic surgery for the management of ectopic pregnancy this is not being translated into a routinely available service or into training opportunities for specialist registrars in the Yorkshire Deanery.