June, 2014
To become a fully-qualified Orthopaedic Surgeon, surgeons-in-training must pass a final examination that is administered by the Royal (Australasian) College of Surgeons.
Prior to presenting for examination, most trainee surgeons have completed 6 years of medical school; a 1-year internship; 3-6 years of Basic Surgical Training (or unaccredited surgical training); and 5-6 years of Advanced Surgical Training in Orthopaedic Surgery (or Surgical Education & Training). A further 1-2 years of sub-specialty training (i.e. an international Fellowship) is highly-regarded and worthwhile, but optional.
The final examination for FRCS / FRACS is the culmination of this training and has three components: a written component, a clinical examination and a series of oral vivas.
Surgeons are examined on real patient cases to ensure they meet the standards required to practice in their respective countries. The Bone & Joint Journal helps trainee surgeons prepare for these final examination by publishing interesting, topical cases, that are similar to those seen in normal clinical practice.
This month, James helped the international Editorial Board of the Bone & Joint Journal prepare cases for the Bone & Joint Journal – Exam Corner.