ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the design, methodology and implementation of the study. The Sheffield Surgical Skills Study is evaluating the validity, reliability, feasibility and acceptability of different workplace-based assessment tools for rating surgeons’ technical and non-technical skills in the operating room. Traditionally, surgical training in the United Kingdom (UK) has been based upon an apprenticeship and examination model without formal assessment of technical or non-technical skills. The need for robust methods of assessment for technical and non-technical surgical skills is axiomatic, as they underpin the competency based assessment strategy and curricula for all UK surgical specialties. To successfully recruit a surgical case requires the favourable alignment and accurate timing of many factors which are beyond our control. The study protocol includes the validation of assessment tools which are in use in the workplace for surgical training. The individual surgical specialties have offered different advantages and disadvantages to the study implementation.
