Defining competency in flexible cystoscopy: a novel approach using cumulative Sum analysis.
BACKGROUND
Flexible cystoscopy (FC) is one of the most frequently performed urological intervention. Cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM) allows objective assessment of a proceduralist's performance to ensure acceptable outcomes. This study investigated the application of CUSUM to assess a trainee's learning curve and maintenance of competence in performing FC.


METHODS
A single urology trainee, with no previous experience of FC, performed FCs between August 2013 and February 2014. For assessment FC was divided into 5 steps. Each step was assigned a CUSUM completion score. The primary outcome measure was successful performance of a complete FC. Prospective data were collected and analysed using CUSUM.


RESULTS
In total, 419 FCs were performed. Acceptable performance of FC was achieved by the 122(nd) procedure. Complete assessment of the ureteric orifices and trigone was the most difficult step of FC to achieve consistently. Competence for complete FC was achieved following 289 procedures.


CONCLUSIONS
CUSUM analysis objectively assesses acquisition of competence in flexible cystoscopy. Recommended indicative numbers may underestimate the number of FCs trainees require to achieve, and maintain, competency. Validation of CUSUM method in a larger cohort of trainees should be considered.
Department of Urology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE7 7DN, UK. Kenneth.r.mackenzie@gmail.com.
Kenneth R
KR
MacKenzie
Department of Urology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE7 7DN, UK.
Jonathan
J
Aning
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D003558:Cystoscopy / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D016208:Databases, Factual / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D055815:Young Adult
CUSUM analysis; Cumulative sum; Flexible cystoscopy; Learning curve