Surgical Exam (GSSE) Study

[Ben W]

Hi, I am a medical resident in Australia and am hoping to pursue a career in general surgery. I would like to ask for any advice with regards to studying for the Primary Surgical exam (GSSE) which now appears to be a pre-requisite before applying to a RACS training program.
I have found a great online resource for the anatomy component, www.primaryanatomy.com, and am currently working my way through their questions bank and mock exams along with Last’s Anatomy. However, I have no idea how to approach the pathology and physiology component of the exam… The recommended texts are large and laborious. Does anyone who is sitting or has passed the GSSE have any advice on how to prepare for the exam and useful resources? Is it true that the Anatomy component is worth 50% of the overall mark?
Thanks.

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[BigPikachu]

I'm not a Surgeon nor do I have much experience in it... Keeping that in mind... A few of my mates who are Surgical Registrars and Consultants tell me that Anatomy (50%), Physiology (25%) and Pathology (25%) are part of the GSSE. The core texts are an essential reading apparently, but easier readings to study from that they have recommended are 'Instant Anatomy' (Instant Anatomy - Learn human anatomy online), and 'Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology' (Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26e | AccessMedicine | McGraw-Hill Medical) and 'Robbin's Basic Pathology' (Robbins Basic Pathology - 10th Edition). Apparenetly having a study group as well in the later stages of prepation for the exam also helps. Good luck! It's not easy to get onto the SET program.

 

[J123C]

Hi Ben, I sat a few years ago now and unfortunately this didn't exist then, but now there is a site with anatomy, path and phys questions, as well as a load of anatomy spotters. Its called Ace The Exam - www.acetheexam.co.nz I think. They've got loads of questions and it covers all the things that primary anatomy doesn't!

 

[J123C]

Definitely you want to have a copy of Last's 9th ed, Robbins pathology (particularly the first ten chapters) and Ganong's physiology. If you know these three texts well, you have 90+% of the exam covered.