SURGICAL TEACHING / DEMONSTRATION
A structure for discussing a surgical case.
Learning objective: Organise a concise case discussion that explains your priorities, decisions and uncertainties.
This is a general communication framework. It does not replace topic-specific clinical guidance, supervision or examination preparation.
1. Frame the problem
Summarise the central issue, the patient’s current condition and the most important uncertainty. Identify what information is still missing.
2. Explain your priorities
Distinguish the immediate concerns from the questions that can be addressed later. State what would require urgent escalation and explain your reasoning.
3. Link information to decisions
For each proposed investigation, explain the question it addresses and how different results would affect the plan. Avoid listing tests without a purpose.
4. Discuss the options
Set out the relevant options, their intended benefits and important limitations. Explain how clinical condition, preferences and available expertise influence the choice.
5. Close the loop
Describe reassessment, follow-up, communication and the circumstances that would change the plan. A clear answer includes what happens next.
Prompts for the educator
- Which missing fact would most change your decision?
- What is your alternative if the first option is unsuitable?
- What would prompt you to ask for help?
- How would you explain the uncertainty to the patient?
Reflection
Identify one point where your reasoning was clear and one where you need more knowledge. Set a specific reading or practice task before the next discussion.