BackgroundFresh frozen cadaver training has been proposed as a better model than virtual reality simulators in laparoscopy training. We aimed to explore the relationship between cadaveric surgical training and increased surgical confidence.To determine feasibility, we devised two 1-day cadaveric surgical training days targeted at trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology. Seven defined surgical skills were covered during the course of the day. The relationship between surgical training and surgical confidence was explored using both quantitative (confidence scores) and qualitative tools (questionnaires).ResultsParticipants rated a consistent improvement in their level of confidence after the training. They universally found the experience positive and three overarching themes emerged from the qualitative analysis including self-concept, social persuasion and stability of task.ConclusionsIt is pragmatically feasible to provide procedure-specific cadaveric surgical training alongside supervised clinical training. This small, non-generalisable study suggests that cadaveric training may contribute to an increase in surgical self-confidence and efficacy. This will form the basis of a larger study and needs to be explored in more depth with a larger population.

CorrectionAfter publication of the original article [1] it was brought to our attention that author Laura Delgaty was incorrectly included as Laura Delegate. The correct spelling of the author’s name is included in the author list of this correction and updated in the original article.

Introduction Evidence suggests that delivery by caesarean section in obese women (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30kg/m2) carries a higher risk of postoperative complications. Aim This study tested the hypothesis that overweight (BMI 25-29.9kg/m2) and obese pregnant women have more post caesarean section complications than pregnant women of recommended BMI (18.5-24.9kg/m2) resulting in a longer length of stay in hospital. Methods Using a piloted proforma, we undertook a case note review of a sample of women with a singleton pregnancy, aged ≥ 16 years and delivered by caesarean section in a district general hospital in 2008. Results A total of 205 case notes were reviewed (27.9%) of all caesarean section deliveries in (DGH) in 2008. Overall, 86 (42.0%) women were of recommended BMI, 54 (26.3%) were overweight and 65 (31.7%) were obese. Thirty eight (58.5%) obese women stayed in hospital for ≥ 3 days compared to 27 (50%) overweight and 42 (49.4%) women of recommended BMI. However, none of these findings reached statistical significance. Fourteen (22.2%) obese women had a wound infection compared to five (9.3%) overweight and 17(20.2%) women of recommended BMI. Of these, 13 (92.2%) obese women received antibiotics for ≥7 days compared to three (75.0%) overweight and 11 (68.8%) women of recommended BMI. Conclusion We did not find significant differences in postoperative complications and length of stay in hospital between overweight and obese pregnant women compared to women of recommended BMI.