Pointing to success: a discussion of the role of professional achievements in the selection of specialist surgical trainees.

Background: In Australia and New Zealand, competitive selection processes for surgical specialty training programs often use a standardized curriculum vitae (CV) to assess criteria such as professional achievements. This review aims to assess the predictive validity, standardization, and implicit biases of these selection methods, as well as their implications for trainees and the diversity of surgical cohorts.

Methods: The 2023 CV scoring criteria were collected for all available specialty surgical programs in Australia and New Zealand.

Are short term outcomes superior following total knee arthroplasty when infra-patellar fat pad is resected? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Data suggests the infra-patellar fat pad (IPFP) is resected in the majority of total knee arthroplasty cases. Current literature suggests there may be scope for increasing preservations rates. A systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature was performed to assess if resection of IPFP resulted in superior patient outcomes.