Experience of a fellowship in spinal surgery: a quantitative analysis.

Objectives: The objective of our paper was to ascertain the self-reported competency level of surgeons who had completed a 1-year spine fellowship versus those who had not. Our secondary objective was to determine whether there was any difference between orthopaedic and neurosurgeons.

Methods: A 60 question online questionnaire was provided to AOSpine Europe members for completion online.

Results: 289 members provided a response, of which 64% were orthopaedic surgeons and 31% neurosurgeons (5% did not specify). Eighty (28%) had completed a 1-year fellowship. Theoretical and practical knowledge of the management of spinal deformity was the greatest difference seen upon completing a fellowship. Multiple elective and emergent conditions were demonstrated to have a significant difference upon completion of a fellowship. There was no difference between orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons.

Conclusions: In order to provide an efficient and safe service covering the broad spectrum of spinal pathology, a formal spine fellowship, ideally with a formal curriculum, should be considered.