19. Exploring the 6-Year Trend in Dedicated Research Years Among Matched Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Applicants

• DOI: 10.1097/01.gox.0001014688.80452.df
• Publication Date: 2024-04-15T12:00:31Z
• Authors: Alexis K. Gursky; Justin M. Camacho; Heli S. Patel; Victoria Stoffel; Meera Reghunathan; Amanda Gosman; Katharine Hinchcliff
• Keywords: Demographics

Background: In recent years, as the competitive landscape for plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) has intensified, a concurrent rise in research productivity among candidates been observed. While several studies have explored impact of year on application process, there yet to be single comprehensive study across an entire integrated PRS cohort. Therefore, we conducted 6-year analysis medical students who pursued dedicated years before successfully matching into residency. Methods: A cross-sectional was all residents matched from 2017 2022. Predetermined variables were extracted publicly accessible sources such websites accredited programs, social media accounts, PubMed. These include demographics, school affiliation, presence home program, participation either clinical or basic science, if applicable, associated institution duration year. Results: total 972 85 programs included this study, representing 75% residents. Of these, 10.9% (106/972) at least one The 2022 match cycle had highest proportion, with 14.5% (25/173) applicants having taken Within cohort, 71.7% (76/106) program 39.6% (42/106) spent their respective school. majority, (76/106), only took off research. Linear regression analyses showed significant increase (R2= 0.86, p<0.01) successful non-top 20 schools 0.93, p<0.001) over period. Conclusion: further reinforces field's evolving competitiveness. As continues change, understanding these trends is crucial ensuring equitable process proven PRS.