Our Summary

This research paper discusses the lack of established models for providing constructive feedback, or “formative feedback,” in the field of graduate medical education. The authors suggest that models used in primary and secondary education could be adapted for use in this context, but there are some notable differences that need to be considered. The paper presents one such model within the context of thoracic (chest) surgical education and demonstrates how it can be used to provide effective feedback. The authors also provide suggestions for avoiding potential issues that could limit the effectiveness of feedback. The paper concludes with a set of guidelines to assist in delivering constructive feedback.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of formative feedback in thoracic surgical education?
  2. What are some key differences between K-12 education and graduate medical education in terms of feedback methods?
  3. Can you provide some suggestions to improve the effectiveness of formative feedback in graduate medical education?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about thoracic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgical team, including fasting guidelines and medication restrictions. It is important to be well-prepared for surgery to ensure a successful outcome and a smooth recovery.

Suitable For

Thoracic surgery is typically recommended for patients with a variety of conditions affecting the chest, lungs, esophagus, and other structures in the thoracic cavity. Some common indications for thoracic surgery include:

  • Lung cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome
  • Pleural effusion
  • Pneumothorax
  • Lung infections
  • Chest wall deformities
  • Mediastinal tumors
  • Hyperhidrosis

Patients who may benefit from thoracic surgery are often referred to a thoracic surgeon by their primary care physician or another specialist for evaluation and treatment. The decision to undergo thoracic surgery is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient’s overall health, the specific condition being treated, and the potential risks and benefits of surgery.

Timeline

Before thoracic surgery:

  • Patient meets with their healthcare provider to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation, which may include blood work, imaging studies, and consultations with other healthcare providers
  • Patient may attend pre-operative education sessions to learn about what to expect before, during, and after surgery

After thoracic surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the post-operative period for any complications
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and limited mobility in the days following surgery
  • Patient receives instructions for post-operative care, including wound care, medications, and follow-up appointments
  • Patient may undergo rehabilitation or physical therapy to regain strength and function
  • Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for ongoing monitoring and management of their condition.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure are you recommending for my thoracic condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period expected to be after thoracic surgery?
  4. What are the alternatives to surgery for treating my condition?
  5. Will I need any additional tests or consultations before undergoing thoracic surgery?
  6. How many thoracic surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. What is the expected outcome or prognosis following thoracic surgery?
  8. Will I need any special post-operative care or follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I will need to follow after thoracic surgery?
  10. What should I do if I experience any complications or concerns after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Vaporciyan AA. Journal: Thorac Surg Clin. 2019 Aug;29(3):249-257. doi: 10.1016/j.thorsurg.2019.03.003. PMID: 31235293