Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast

In our first episode the surgical skills fellows (Hannah Pierce & Naomi Harvey) talk to RCOG president, Ranee Thakar, and RCOG Vice-president for education, Ian Scudamore, on how the surgical skills project came to be and their own personal experiences of surgical skills training. The following bitesize episodes will do a deeper dive into each of the five chapters of the surgical skills interim report. Highlighting the key findings and generating conversation on some of the potential solutions to be taken forward in the next phase of the project

Episode 1: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - introduction

Episode 6: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - investing in the educators

In this episode, we discuss the fourth focus of the Surgical Skills project- Lifelong learning - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project. 

New consultants and specialists often face the challenge of continuing their surgical skills acquisition in an environment where surgical opportunities may belimited by clinical responsibilities, rota pressures and increasing patient demands. Protected time and support are required for ongoing surgical skills maintenance and development. The next phase of the project will explore the role of fellowships.

Episode 5: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - lifelong learning

Episode 3: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - simulation and virtual learning

Our future workforce faces significant challenges in meeting the demands of an evolving healthcare landscape and the increasing complexity of patient needs. We must be strategic in supporting our workforce to match changing trends bу developing strong progressive career support for each resident doctor and ensuring we proactively develop a workforce capable of managing increased surgical complexity. 

In this episode, we discuss the first focus of the Surgical Skills project- Workforce of the future- and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

Episode 2: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - workforce of the future

Long gynaecology waiting lists, workforce shortages and the increasing complexity of surgeries have limited residents' exposure to surgical skills practice and training. We need to reprioritise surgical training through earlier focus on endoscopic training. by increasing adaptability in training and through investment in innovative technologies that support residents in accessing training opportunities. Simulation training has become a vital tool for surgical skills acquisition, providing a safe, controlled environment where doctors can practice procedures without risking patient safety. We will examine how we can embed simulation training into the RCOG curriculum and will establish a Simulation Working Group to ensure equal access to training. 

In this episode, we discuss the third focus of the Surgical Skills project- Re-prioritising surgical training - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

Episode 4: Knot to be missed - The RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast - Reprioritising surgical training

Episode 7: Knot to be missed: the RCOG surgical skills podcast - laparoscopic simulation training

In this episode of Knot to be Missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Miss Nahid Gul, a leading consultant in gynaecological pelvic laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Together, they explore Miss Gul’s inspiring career journey—from her early days in obstetrics and gynaecology to her pioneering work in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. With insights into training, mentorship, and the evolving future of surgical practice in the UK, this conversation offers a compelling look at innovation, leadership, and the transformative potential of technology in women's health.

Episode 8: Knot to be Missed: RCOG surgical skills podcast: The rise of the robot

Episode 9: Knot to be Missed: RCOG surgical skills podcast: serving up the future of training

Episode 10: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast - incivility in surgery

Episode 11: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast - mind the gap

Episode 12: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills podcast - beyond the knot

Episode 13: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills podcast - view from across the pond

Episode 14: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills podcast - the great surgical heist

Episode 15: Knot to be missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills podcast - Ranee Thakar reflection

Evidence based information for the public from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists.