Training in colorectal surgery in Europe and 20 years of the European Board of Surgical Qualification coloproctology examination.

Aim: Training in colorectal surgery across Europe is not yet standardized. The European Board of Surgical Qualification (EBSQ) coloproctology examination has been held annually since 1998. The aims of this study were to illustrate the current situation of coloproctology specialization in Europe and to analyse the EBSQ examinations held over the last 20 years.

Method: A survey, focused on current training and education in colorectal surgery in Europe, was conducted among all national representatives of the European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) in 2018. Candidate demographics (1998-2018) and the results of the EBSQ examination (2007-2018) were analysed.

Results: In Europe, there are currently 26 national colorectal societies, 27 national annual colorectal meetings, 16 national specialized training programmes and 13 national colorectal fellowships. Six countries have board certification in colorectal surgery and five a dedicated examination. During the last 20 years, 475 candidates from 29 countries, of whom 88 (19%) were women, passed the EBSQ examination. The pass rate was higher in younger applicants (< 42 years, P = 0.01). The success rate was higher for candidates with academic experience (more than five publications or presentations) and with an academic title (thesis) (P = 0.01).

Conclusion: Colorectal surgical training is still not standardized in Europe, although efforts have been made to recognize colorectal surgery as an independent speciality. The number of holders of the EBSQ Diploma has increased over the years, demonstrating the acceptance of the examination among European surgeons. Young candidates with an academic profile are the most successful.