Ultrasound Training in Otolaryngology Residencies

Objective1) Estimate the current state of ultrasound experience among United States otolaryngology residents. 2) Describe self‐reported proficiency levels among senior residents in specific head and neck ultrasound techniques. 3) Identify deficiencies in ultrasound education and determine barriers to residents’ future use of ultrasound.MethodMidway through the academic year (January 2012), a link with an electronic survey was sent via email to every residency program director in the United States with a request to distribute the survey to the residents (PGY 1‐5). Survey responses were recorded anonymously and analyzed.ResultsA total of 123 residents responded. Of these, 62 (50.4%) had informal ultrasound training during residency, and 11 (9%) had attended a formal ultrasound course. Senior residents (PGY 4‐5, n = 52) had personally performed thyroid imaging (46.2%), thyroid FNA (32.7%), parathyroid imaging (19.2%), lymph node assessment (23.1%), salivary gland stone assessment (9.8%), and vocal cord mobility assessment (5.9%). Barriers to future ultrasound use included an inability to perform ultrasound (49.2%), cost of ultrasound machine (34.2%), and concerns about credentialing (32.5%). When asked if their exposure to ultrasound in residency was adequate, 27 (22.3%) said “yes,” 63 (52.1%) said “no,” and 31 (25.6%) said “unsure.”ConclusionUnited States otolaryngology residents have had variable exposure to ultrasound training. Less than half of senior residents have performed basic ultrasound skills. The biggest perceived impediment to future ultrasound use among prospective otolaryngologists is an inability to perform ultrasound, and relatively few otolaryngology residents feel their ultrasound training is adequate.