University of Sydney Handbooks - 2020 Archive

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Surgery pre-2020 enrolment

The following information applies to students who enrolled in the Master of Surgery (Coursework) prior to 2020.

Students enrolled prior to 2020 will be able to complete the course in its original structure or may elect to transfer to the new program provided they meet the admission requirement.

Unit of study Credit points A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition Session

Surgery pre-2020 enrolment

For continuing students only

Master of Surgery

Students complete 48 credit points, including:
(a) 6 credit points of core units of study; and
(b) 18 credit points of dissertation units of study or
(c) 24 credit points of stream specific core units of study; and
(d) a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 24 credit points of elective units of study.
The following streams are available:
(i) Surgical Sciences
(ii) Surgical Skills
(iii) Surgical Anatomy
(iv) Breast Surgery
(v) Research Dissertation (surgical sub-specialty):
– Breast Surgery
– Cardiothoracic Surgery
– Colorectal
– Endocrine Surgery
– Hand Surgery
– Head and Neck
– Neurosurgery
– Orthopaedic
– Otorhinolaryngology
– Paediatric Surgery
– Plastic/Reconstructive Surgery
– Surgical Anatomy
– Surgical Oncology
– Surgical Outcomes
– Surgical Sciences
– Surgical Skills
– Transplant Surgery
– Trauma Surgery
– Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
– Urology
– Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Surgery.

Core units of study

For all streams. Students select one of the following units:
PUBH5018
Introductory Biostatistics
6      Semester 1
CEPI5100
Introduction to Clinical Epidemiology
6    N PUBH5010


It is recommended that this is completed as soon as possible after enrolment into your first unit of study.
Semester 1
Semester 2

Stream specific core units

Research Dissertation Stream

SURG5007
Dissertation A
9      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5008
Dissertation B
9      Semester 1
Semester 2

Surgical Sciences Stream

SURG5012
Surgical Metabolism
6      Semester 2
PATH5000
Surgical Pathology
6      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5035
Surgical Research and Evaluation
6      Semester 1
SURG5036
Surg Research: Translation and Innovation
6      Semester 2

Surgical Skills Stream

PATH5000
Surgical Pathology
6      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5031
Surgical Skills
6    A Final year medical student knowledge of physiology, pathology and anatomy is assumed

Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Places in this unit are limited, please contact Jayne Seward in the Discipline of Surgery office to be placed on the waitlist at jayne.seward@sydney.edu.au
Semester 1
SURG5032
Physiology for Surgeons
6      Semester 2
SURG5034
Surgical Anatomy based on GSSE
6      Semester 1
Semester 2

Breast surgery stream

SURG5037
Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease
6    A Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery.


This unit is designed as the first part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Ttrainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). Students completing all 4 breast surgery units must complete them in sequence ie SURG5037, SURG5038, SURG5039, SURG5040.
Semester 1
SURG5039
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 1
6    A Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery.


This unit is designed as the third part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease and SURG5038 Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs.
Semester 1
SURG5038
Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs
6    A Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery.


This unit is designed as the second part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease. Students completing all 4 breast surgery units must complete them in sequence ie SURG5037, SURG5038, SURG5039, SURG5040
Semester 2
SURG5040
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 2
6    A Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery.


This unit is designed as the forth and final part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease, SURG5038 Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs and SURG5039 Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 1.
Semester 2

Elective units

HAEM5001
Thrombosis and Haemostasis in Acute Care
6    A Basic knowledge of haemostasis is an advantage.
Semester 2
PATH5000
Surgical Pathology
6      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5003
Scientific Communication for Surgeons
6      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5011
Imaging Surgical Patients
6    N IMAG5042
Semester 2
SURG5012
Surgical Metabolism
6      Semester 2
SURG5016
Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
6   
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Limit 12 students per semester. Departmental permission required.
Semester 2
SURG5017
Microsurgery
6   
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5021
Surgical Immunology
6      Semester 1
SURG5025
Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery
6      Semester 2
SURG5031
Surgical Skills
6    A Final year medical student knowledge of physiology, pathology and anatomy is assumed

Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Places in this unit are limited, please contact Jayne Seward in the Discipline of Surgery office to be placed on the waitlist at jayne.seward@sydney.edu.au
Semester 1
SURG5032
Physiology for Surgeons
6      Semester 2
SURG5034
Surgical Anatomy based on GSSE
6      Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5035
Surgical Research and Evaluation
6      Semester 1
SURG5036
Surg Research: Translation and Innovation
6      Semester 2
SURG5041
Surgical Oncology: Principles and Practice
6    A Candidates are expected generally to be undertaking advanced surgical training or similar
P PATH5000

Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Department permission required for enrolment. Exemption may apply via special permission for advanced surgical trainees
Semester 1
Semester 2
SURG5042
Urological Oncology
6      Semester 1
SURG5043
Surgical Endoscopy
6    A Candidates are advised to have completed a surgical internship or similar with some prior exposure to endoscopy.
Semester 2
SURG5027
Head and Neck by Dissection
6    A This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training.
Semester 2
SURG5028
Thorax, Back, Spinal Cord by Dissection
6    A This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training.
Semester 1
SURG5029
Upper and Lower Extremities by Dissection
6    A This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training.
Semester 1
SURG5030
Abdomen, Pelvis, Perineum by Dissection
6    A This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training.
Semester 1

Optional Electives

The following units are for the Surgical Sciences distance/online stream only.
Note: These units do not transfer to other streams.
CEPI5315
Introduction to Systematic Reviews
6    C CEPI5100 or PUBH5010
N CEPI5203 or CEPI5102 or CEPI5314
Semester 1
PUBH5010
Epidemiology Methods and Uses
6    N BSTA5011 or CEPI5100
Semester 1
PUBH5020
Chronic Disease Prevention and Control
6    A PUBH5033, PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 or equivalent


PUBH5020 is an advanced MPH elective in the area of chronic disease prevention. Some epidemiological concepts, such as population attributable risk and introductory concepts in health promotion are expected knowledge for understanding this unit. For example, attributable risk is necessary to understand the Burden of Disease concept in NCD prevention, and is part of Module 2 of this unit. In addition, this MPH elective predominantly takes a population and global perspective on NCD prevention with a lesser emphasis on clinical or health services prevention perspectives.
Semester 1
PUBH5019
Cancer Prevention and Control
6    P PUBH5010 or CEPI5100

Note: Department permission required for enrolment

Semester 2

Surgery pre-2020 enrolment

For continuing students only

Master of Surgery

Students complete 48 credit points, including:
(a) 6 credit points of core units of study; and
(b) 18 credit points of dissertation units of study or
(c) 24 credit points of stream specific core units of study; and
(d) a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 24 credit points of elective units of study.
The following streams are available:
(i) Surgical Sciences
(ii) Surgical Skills
(iii) Surgical Anatomy
(iv) Breast Surgery
(v) Research Dissertation (surgical sub-specialty):
-- Breast Surgery
-- Cardiothoracic Surgery
-- Colorectal
-- Endocrine Surgery
-- Hand Surgery
-- Head and Neck
-- Neurosurgery
-- Orthopaedic
-- Otorhinolaryngology
-- Paediatric Surgery
-- Plastic/Reconstructive Surgery
-- Surgical Anatomy
-- Surgical Oncology
-- Surgical Outcomes
-- Surgical Sciences
-- Surgical Skills
-- Transplant Surgery
-- Trauma Surgery
-- Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
-- Urology
-- Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Surgery.

Core units of study

For all streams. Students select one of the following units:
PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Timothy Schlub, Dr Erin Cvejic Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x 2hr lectures, 10 x 1hr lectures, 11 x 2hr tutorials, 2 x 1hr and 8 x 0.5hr statistical computing self directed learning tasks over 12 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Assessment: Weekly quizzes (10%), 1x4 page assignment (20%), 1x1hr online test (20%) and 1x1.5hr open-book exam (50%). For distance students it may be possible to complete the exam externally with the approval of the course coordinator. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
This unit introduces students to statistical methods relevant in medicine and health. Students will learn how to appropriately summarise and visualise data, carry out a statistical analysis, interpret p-values and confidence intervals, and present statistical findings in a scientific publication. Students will also learn how to determine the appropriate sample size when planning a research study. Students will learn how to conduct analyses using calculators and statistical software.
Specific analysis methods of this unit include: hypothesis tests for one-sample, two paired samples and two independent samples for continuous and binary data; distribution-free methods for two paired samples, two independent samples; correlation and simple linear regression; power and sample size estimation for simple studies; and introduction to multivariable regression models;.
Students who wish to continue with their statistical learning after this unit are encouraged to take PUBH5217 Biostatistics: Statistical Modelling.
Textbooks
Course notes will be made available.
CEPI5100 Introduction to Clinical Epidemiology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Fiona Stanaway Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Offered online (no fixed-time webinars) and face-to-face (daytime tutorials) Prohibitions: PUBH5010 Assessment: Completion of online quizzes (15%), tutorial participation (10%), assignment 1 (15%), assignment 2 (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
Note: It is recommended that this is completed as soon as possible after enrolment into your first unit of study.
This unit introduces the concept of clinical epidemiology and provides students with core skills in clinical epidemiology at an introductory level. Topics covered include asking and answering clinical questions; basic and accessible literature searching techniques; study designs used in clinical epidemiological research; confounding and effect modification; sources of bias; interpretation of results including odds ratios, relative risks, confidence intervals and p values; applicability of results to individual patients; critical appraisal of clinical epidemiological research literature used to answer questions of therapy (RCTs and systematic reviews), harm, prognosis, diagnosis and screening; applicability of results to individual patients; and evidence-based use of health resources.
Textbooks
Online readings and resources to be provided on the eLearning website.

Stream specific core units

Research Dissertation Stream

SURG5007 Dissertation A

Credit points: 9 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 6hrs per week of self-directed research with regular consultation with supervisor Assessment: Candidates will be required to submit the dissertation in the form of a paper dealing with research on a specific topic. It should be the equivalent of one paper which would be acceptable for publication in a peer reviewed scientific, academic or professional journal. In keeping with Academic Board policy there is an option to submit published work based on research undertaken while enrolled for this degree. Such publications should include additional information such as: (i) An introduction with more information on previous work by others (ii) More detail on Methodology including figures (iii) Insert paper at this point (iv) Commentary on the significance of the findings. Mode of delivery: Supervision
The dissertation is a formal piece of writing relevant to the subject area of the Masters' degree. Candidates will work on a specified research project under appropriate supervision. At least one of the project supervisors must be an academic staff member of the University. The dissertation is in Parts A and B, both of which will be completed in a minimum of one year of full-time study or two years of part time study.
SURG5008 Dissertation B

Credit points: 9 Teacher/Coordinator: Clinical Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 6hrs per week of self-directed research with regular consultation with supervisor Assessment: Candidates will be required to submit the dissertation in the form of a paper dealing with research on a specific topic. It should be the equivalent of one paper which would be acceptable for publication in a peer reviewed scientific, academic or professional journal. In keeping with Academic Board policy there is an option to submit published work based on research undertaken while enrolled for this degree. Such publications should include additional information such as: (i) An introduction with more information on previous work by others (ii) More detail on Methodology including figures (iii) Insert paper at this point (iv) Commentary on the significance of the findings. Mode of delivery: Supervision
The dissertation is a formal piece of writing relevant to the subject area of the Masters' degree. Candidates will work on a specified research project under appropriate supervision. At least one of the project supervisors must be an academic staff member of the University. The dissertation is in Parts A and B, both of which will be completed in a minimum of one year of full-time study or two years of part time study.

Surgical Sciences Stream

SURG5012 Surgical Metabolism

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Michael Suen Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online Assessment: Compulsory participation in 6 online modules x 5% (30%) Complete a 2000-5000 word assignment (70%) Mode of delivery: Online
The aims of the unit are for the student to acquire knowledge of nutrition in surgery and to understand adaptive response of the body to stress, trauma and sepsis. By the end of the unit the student will become competent in providing enteral and parenteral nutritional therapy to metabolically compromised patients. Content includes Nutrition assessment, Surgical Complications in Malnourished patients, Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition, Complications in Obese, Obesity and Surgery, Short Bowel Syndrome and Enterocutaneous fistula.
Textbooks
Reading materials will be posted online prior to the sessions
PATH5000 Surgical Pathology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Brett Hambly Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online Assessment: weekly quizzes (20%), 2 x 500 word case discussions (20%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (20%), online exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
The Surgical Pathology Unit of Study course in an online course available in Semester 1 or 2. It is based on examination of macroscopic pathology specimens (bottles) available through the Pathology Museum collection and examination of microscopic slides of relevant pathological processes. The course runs over 13 weeks and covers 13 topics. Each week recorded lectures, accompanying slides, required reading, and supplementary materials are provided to students. All material (including assessments) will take approximately 10hours per week to complete. Topics that will be covered in the course will include basic pathological processes (eg immunology, inflammation, neoplasia etc) and systems pathology (eg cardiovascular, respiratory, gastroenterology, neurology, genitourinary, etc).
Textbooks
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease 9th Ed (Kumar, Abbas, Fausto, Aster)
SURG5035 Surgical Research and Evaluation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kerry Hitos Session: Semester 1 Classes: Compulsory participation and assessment of 6 modules and tutorial discussion board (the unit will be delivered online): limit of 50 in semester 1 and 25 in semester 2 Assessment: On-line short answer questions cover the knowledge acquired for each module. Each set of questions must be completed and submitted by the due date and before students proceed to the next module. Answers to each module will contribute (40%) to the final score of the unit. A written assignment will also contribute (60%). Mode of delivery: Online
The objective of this unit is to provide candidates with an understanding of key methodological concepts of level one evidence based studies needed to conduct high quality surgical research. It will cover basic concepts and principles of good clinical research practice and provide the necessary skills on how to measure the quality of care. Key topics focus on how to identify, appraise, select and synthesise a systematic review and meta-analysis. The use of databases and registries and how to best present statistical analysis and summarise data. This unit will provide candidates with the skills to measure the quality of surgical care as well as evaluate surgical performance and measures of effects. Candidates will be able to critically appraise published statistics and learn to identify publication bias before applying the findings to their own clinical practice.
Textbooks
Notes will be linked to online teaching material.
SURG5036 Surg Research: Translation and Innovation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor Kerry Hitos Session: Semester 2 Classes: Compulsory participation and assessment of 6 modules and tutorial discussion board (the unit will be delivered online). Assessment: On-line short answer questions cover the knowledge acquired for each module. Each set of questions must be completed and submitted by the due date and before candidates proceed to the next module. Answers to each module will contribute (40%) to the final score of the unit. A written assignment will also contribute (60%). Mode of delivery: Online
The objective of this unit is to introduce candidates to the basic concepts of innovation. Participants will be able to identify and evaluate surgical innovation as well as focus on the methodological and practical challenges to rigorous surgical research. Candidates will be have the skills to design and complete level one evidence based research in surgery with a key focus on randomised and non-randomised controlled trials. The course will evaluate the complexity of surgical innovation and how to identify related factors influencing outcome. Candidates should be able to identify challenges facing the surgical research community when performing an evaluation of a therapeutic, procedure-based intervention. How to pinpoint the issues and deconstruct these into constituent methodological parts such that several important areas will be targeted for developing a systematic process that would guide appropriate, evidence based surgical practice. Ethical aspects in research and innovation will be addressed and the process of translational research will be reviewed. Other broad topics will focus on surgical oncology and survival analysis; evaluating performance when measuring the value of surgical research and the key concepts in diagnostic tests and accuracy in surgery.
Textbooks
Notes will be linked to online teaching material.

Surgical Skills Stream

PATH5000 Surgical Pathology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Brett Hambly Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online Assessment: weekly quizzes (20%), 2 x 500 word case discussions (20%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (20%), online exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
The Surgical Pathology Unit of Study course in an online course available in Semester 1 or 2. It is based on examination of macroscopic pathology specimens (bottles) available through the Pathology Museum collection and examination of microscopic slides of relevant pathological processes. The course runs over 13 weeks and covers 13 topics. Each week recorded lectures, accompanying slides, required reading, and supplementary materials are provided to students. All material (including assessments) will take approximately 10hours per week to complete. Topics that will be covered in the course will include basic pathological processes (eg immunology, inflammation, neoplasia etc) and systems pathology (eg cardiovascular, respiratory, gastroenterology, neurology, genitourinary, etc).
Textbooks
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease 9th Ed (Kumar, Abbas, Fausto, Aster)
SURG5031 Surgical Skills

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anthony Glover Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online with a compulsory 2-day workshop at the Sydney Clinical Skills and Stimulation Centre at Royal North Shore Hospital. Assumed knowledge: Final year medical student knowledge of physiology, pathology and anatomy is assumed Assessment: Ethics case discussions (10%), ethics written assignment (20%), case discussions (20%), workshop assessment (5%), communication essay (10%), short answer questions (15%), skills demonstration video (10%), online quizzes (10%) Practical field work: The workshop will include communication skills (in conjunction with the Pam McLean Centre for Communication) and preparation for surgical training tutorials, as well as basic and advanced surgical skills taught by an expert surgical faculty. Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Places in this unit are limited, please contact Jayne Seward in the Discipline of Surgery office to be placed on the waitlist at jayne.seward@sydney.edu.au
This unit focuses on providing a foundation in the surgical skills required by doctors who are applying for surgical training positions and introduces many of the core competencies essential to surgeons during their training and career. On completion of this unit you will be familiar with current standards of treatment for surgical patients with regards to hospital care and technical skills. You will also gain experience in the practical application of the concepts of ethics, scholarship, professionalism, teaching, management and leadership that is expected of junior doctors who plan to pursue a surgical career.
Textbooks
Readings include papers from the scientific literature and selected textbook chapters.
SURG5032 Physiology for Surgeons

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Miguel Iglesias Session: Semester 2 Classes: online lectures will provide an overview of topics to supplement Ganong and other resources. Assessment: online quizzes (30%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (20%), online exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Online
This unit of study covers most of the basic and advanced physiology and some pathophysiology that training surgeons need to have at their fingertips. With a focus on the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and urinary systems, the systems and concepts studied confer a deep understanding of those at play during surgery. It provides students with a solid basis for preparation for the GSSE exam of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons.
Textbooks
Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th Edition. McGraw-Hill Education/ Medical and West's Respiratory Physiology, 10th Edition. Wolters Kluwer.
SURG5034 Surgical Anatomy based on GSSE

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares and Clinical Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Tutorials and practical classes with exercises. Please check the surgery timetable for dates. Assessment: Assessment will be based on both attendance and participation in weekly classes. self directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. A 90% attendance is required for the course, and a satisfactory pass mark in classwork. There will be a final compulsory trial GSSE exam of 80 MCQs and 20 Spots (held on the final day of the course). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The aim of the course is to assist students in the preparation of the Anatomy component of GSSE conducted by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). These modules comprise: upper limb, lower limb, head and neck thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. Each module has three components: a) Identification and SCORPIOS of anatomical structures in wet prosections of the anatomical area for the session. b) Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) exercises c) 'Spot' questions on anatomical prosection photographs.
Textbooks
Last's Anatomy 9th Edition, Editor: McMinn; Clinically Oriented Anatomy by Keith L Moore; Color Atlas of Anatomy, (Rohen, Yokochi, Lutjen, Drecoll); Lecture Notes on Anatomy, D.B.Moffat.

Breast surgery stream

SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Jocelyn Lippey and Dr Susannah Graham Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online lectures, discussion boards and webinars. Assumed knowledge: Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery. Assessment: Online quizzes (10%); 2 x short essays (20%); clinical case discussions (15%); webinar case presentation (5%); 1 x online examination (50%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: This unit is designed as the first part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Ttrainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). Students completing all 4 breast surgery units must complete them in sequence ie SURG5037, SURG5038, SURG5039, SURG5040.
Breast surgery requires comprehensive knowledge of the basic sciences of the breast and also the various elements of benign breast diseases. This unit of study aims to prepare candidates for a career in breast surgery. The unit focuses on:
1. the anatomy of the breast, axilla and donor sites for reconstruction flaps
2. anatomical variations and physiological changes in the breast and axilla
3. benign breast diseases including mastitis, mastalgia, nipple discharge and aberrations of normal development and involution (ANDI)
4. current radiological modalities in breast disease imaging and risk assessment for patients
5. genetic and non-genetic risk assessment for patients
6. the importance of oestrogen and HER 2 receptors in breast cancer.
Textbooks
ABC of Breast Diseases: 3rd Edition : Michael Dixon
SURG5039 Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Ben Green andA/Prof Sanjay Warrier Session: Semester 1 Classes: Weekly online lectures; online discussion boards and webinars Assumed knowledge: Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery. Assessment: 3 x case reports (50%); short essay (20%); clinical case discussion (20%), webinar case report (10%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: This unit is designed as the third part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease and SURG5038 Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs.
Breast surgery requires a thorough knowledge of the science and management of malignant breast disease and this unit of study is aimed at post-fellowship training (PFT) candidates committed to a career in breast surgery. You will focus on principles of oncoplastic breast surgery techniques used to extend the role of breast conservation and improve the aesthetics of breast conservation surgery. Techniques of volume displacement, mammoplasty, volume replacement, symmetry procedures and good mastectomy technique are covered. You will develop your clinical judgement regarding the use of different techniques and how they are integrated with the multidisciplinary management of breast cancer.
SURG5038 Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Patsy Soon, A/Prof Sanjay Warrier Session: Semester 2 Classes: Weekly online lectures and discussion boards. Assumed knowledge: Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery. Assessment: Online quizzes (10%); video assignment (10%); clinical case discussion (10%); short answer question (10%); participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (10%); 1 x online examination (50%)) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: This unit is designed as the second part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease. Students completing all 4 breast surgery units must complete them in sequence ie SURG5037, SURG5038, SURG5039, SURG5040
Breast surgery requires a thorough knowledge of the science and management of malignant breast disease and this unit of study aims to prepare the post fellowship candidate for a career in breast surgery. The content focuses on the pathology and recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of malignant breast disease. You will gain an indepth understanding of available prognostic assessment tools, multidisciplinary care of breast cancer patients ( including adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy and the integral role of the breast care nurse and other allied health staff) and survivorship issues. Specific surgical decision algorithms and surgical options for malignant and insitu disease will be thoroughly explored and explained.
SURG5040 Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Samriti Sood, Dr Joel Symonds, Prof Andrew Spillane Session: Semester 2 Classes: Weekly online lectures, online discussion boards and webinars Assumed knowledge: Applicants must have completed general or plastic surgical training and have a strong interest in breast surgery. Assessment: 3x case reports (50%); audio assignments (20%); clinical case discussions (30%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: This unit is designed as the forth and final part of a curriculum for contemporary breast surgery for Post Fellowship Trainees and assumes practical skills training is obtained on the BreastSurgANZ PFT Program (or equivalent). The unit assumes knowledge from SURG5037 Basic Sciences and Benign Breast Disease, SURG5038 Malignant Breast Disease and MDTs and SURG5039 Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Level 1.
This unit of study concludes the specialist breast surgery curriculum. The focus is on breast reconstruction after mastectomy. It includes the full range of breast reconstruction techniques - implant based reconstruction, latissimus dorsi reconstruction and free flap tissue options ¿ as well as lipofilling and nipple reconstruction techniques. Students will participate in multi-surgeon meeting case discussions with complex decision-making and management of complications.

Elective units

HAEM5001 Thrombosis and Haemostasis in Acute Care

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Jennifer Curnow Session: Semester 2 Classes: online lectures and case discussions, video tutorials, podcasts of experts discussing controversies Assumed knowledge: Basic knowledge of haemostasis is an advantage. Assessment: online quizzes (10%); generation and peer review of assessment items (10%); case-based discussion boards (10%); short answer questions (30%); final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
Thrombosis and haemostasis affect all areas of clinical practice. This unit of study will familiarise students with normal and pathological haemostasis, interpretation of coagulation laboratory tests, and practical management of bleeding and clotting disorders in the perioperative and critical care setting. Case-based discussions will explore strategies for diagnosis, investigation and management in theatres, ICU and the emergency department to assist in making optimal clinical decisions.
Textbooks
Consultative Hemostasis and Thrombosis; Kitchens, Kessler and Konkle 2013 (Pub:Elsevier)
PATH5000 Surgical Pathology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Brett Hambly Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online Assessment: weekly quizzes (20%), 2 x 500 word case discussions (20%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (20%), online exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
The Surgical Pathology Unit of Study course in an online course available in Semester 1 or 2. It is based on examination of macroscopic pathology specimens (bottles) available through the Pathology Museum collection and examination of microscopic slides of relevant pathological processes. The course runs over 13 weeks and covers 13 topics. Each week recorded lectures, accompanying slides, required reading, and supplementary materials are provided to students. All material (including assessments) will take approximately 10hours per week to complete. Topics that will be covered in the course will include basic pathological processes (eg immunology, inflammation, neoplasia etc) and systems pathology (eg cardiovascular, respiratory, gastroenterology, neurology, genitourinary, etc).
Textbooks
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease 9th Ed (Kumar, Abbas, Fausto, Aster)
SURG5003 Scientific Communication for Surgeons

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kerry Hitos, Professor Pierre Chapuis, Professor Henry Pleass Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: This unit is delivered online and with weekly lectures and discussions. Assessment: Compulsory participation and assessment of 6 online modules (30%), online research presentation component (70%). Mode of delivery: Online
This unit is designed to promote academic surgery pari passu with the objectives of the Section of Academic Surgery (SAS) of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). Candidates will develop the skills and art of delivering powerful professional presentations. They will learn how to craft a suitable abstract for a scientific paper or conference using their research findings in a format acceptable for adjudication as an oral presentation at a meeting of a Surgical Research Society or the Annual Scientific Congress of the RACS and its subspecialties. This includes critical steps to successful abstract preparation, visual presentation, content, structure, coherent design and delivery. Key topics include the formation of an effective argument and focus point, style of delivery, avoiding critical errors, including analysing, understanding and handling the audience. On completion, candidates will be confident and have the core skills to present findings of their research effectively in a way that is engaging, persuasive and will maximise impact. This unit is strongly recommended for all undertaking Dissertation A (SURG 5007) and B (SURG 5008) for the Masters of Surgery. As part of their assessment, candidates will be required to present online.
Textbooks
Notes will be linked to online teaching material.
SURG5011 Imaging Surgical Patients

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Stuart Grieve and Dr Sally Ayesa Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online lectures and case-based discussion boards. Prohibitions: IMAG5042 Assessment: Online quizzes (10%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (10%), 3 x case discussions (40%); final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
This unit of study aims to introduce imaging relevant to the practice of surgery. You will learn the fundamental principles of a range of medical imaging modalities, as well as the indications and risks relevant to surgical practice. On completion of the unit, you will have a broad understanding of the role medical imaging plays in the care of surgical patients and the basic interpretation of common imaging investigations, as well as important imaging findings for common and life-threatening pathologies. New and evolving imaging techniques, already or soon available for surgical patients will be touched on.
SURG5012 Surgical Metabolism

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Michael Suen Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online Assessment: Compulsory participation in 6 online modules x 5% (30%) Complete a 2000-5000 word assignment (70%) Mode of delivery: Online
The aims of the unit are for the student to acquire knowledge of nutrition in surgery and to understand adaptive response of the body to stress, trauma and sepsis. By the end of the unit the student will become competent in providing enteral and parenteral nutritional therapy to metabolically compromised patients. Content includes Nutrition assessment, Surgical Complications in Malnourished patients, Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition, Complications in Obese, Obesity and Surgery, Short Bowel Syndrome and Enterocutaneous fistula.
Textbooks
Reading materials will be posted online prior to the sessions
SURG5016 Vascular and Endovascular Surgery

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Anthony Freeman and Dr Robert Tang Session: Semester 2 Classes: online modules, compulsory 1 day face to face skills session (limit 12 students) Assessment: online quizzes (10%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (10%), 6 x 300 word assignments and participation in discussion forums (30%), 1800 word written assignment (30%), skills session attendance and assessment (20%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Limit 12 students per semester. Departmental permission required.
In this unit of study you will develop a sophisticated working knowledge of the academic basis of contemporary vascular surgical practice. Vascular anatomy, pathophysiology, imaging and treatment options (non-operative, open surgical or endovascular) of vascular surgical disorders will be discussed.
Textbooks
Rutherford's Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy (Sidawy) 9th ed., Vascular and Endovascular Surgery: A Companion to Specialist Surgical Practice (Loftus) 6th ed. 2019, Pellerito J and Polak JF. Introduction to Vascular Ultrasonography. 6th edition. 2012., Fitridge R and Thompson M. Mechanisms of Vascular Disease: A Reference Book for Vascular Specialists. University of Adelaide Press, 2011
SURG5017 Microsurgery

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Bernard Schick, Dr Alex Phoon Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 6x 2 hour labs/tutorials, plus 3 x 2.5hr (Saturday) labs (limit 10 students) Assessment: Presentation of logbook and attendance at each tutorial/lab session (40%), technical competence (40%), assignment (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The course will deliver focused sessions on applied Microsurgical anatomy, and practical training in Microsurgery - Micro vascular and micro neural techniques. Real time demonstrations, Video, other visual and printed material will be used to aid teaching and to supplement the 'eyes on scope' sessions. Sessions will comprise of brief lecture, demonstration of techniques to be developed in the class, followed by supervised Microsurgical practice with set objectives and standards. Students will keep a detailed log book and present a discussion paper on an element of Microsurgery they find challenging or stimulating.
Textbooks
Notes will be distributed prior to the course commencing.
SURG5021 Surgical Immunology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Alexandra Sharland and Associate Professor Jerome Laurence Session: Semester 1 Classes: The unit is delivered online and will require approximately 10 hours study per week. Assessment: participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (10%), online quizzes (25%,) case discussions (25%), online exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
Inflammation and immunopathology are encountered frequently in surgical practice, in settings such as acute pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease and rejection of organ transplants. Manipulation of the immune system through treatment with checkpoint inhibitors and other forms of immunotherapy is assuming increasing importance in the treatment of malignant melanoma and various other cancers. This unit of study will introduce students to the fundamental aspects of innate and cognate immune responses and their relationship to the clinical manifestations of some common surgical conditions.
Textbooks
Abbas, Lichtman and Pillai, Cellular and Molecular Immunology, 9th edition, Saunders .
SURG5025 Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Henry Pleass Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online with one day face to face workshop. Assessment: Mix of online discussions, best answer quizzes, short answer questions and essays along with assessment of technical skills. Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
The objective of this unit of study is for participants to develop greater understanding of the operative anatomy, pathophysiology and treatment options for complex hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases by laparoscopic or open means. This unit of study will introduce participants to key areas of operative anatomy, pathology, imaging and surgical techniques at an advanced level. By the end of the course, participants will have developed the ability to critically appraise contemporary hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgical practice.
Textbooks
Readings include papers from the scientific literature and selected textbook chapters.
SURG5031 Surgical Skills

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anthony Glover Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online with a compulsory 2-day workshop at the Sydney Clinical Skills and Stimulation Centre at Royal North Shore Hospital. Assumed knowledge: Final year medical student knowledge of physiology, pathology and anatomy is assumed Assessment: Ethics case discussions (10%), ethics written assignment (20%), case discussions (20%), workshop assessment (5%), communication essay (10%), short answer questions (15%), skills demonstration video (10%), online quizzes (10%) Practical field work: The workshop will include communication skills (in conjunction with the Pam McLean Centre for Communication) and preparation for surgical training tutorials, as well as basic and advanced surgical skills taught by an expert surgical faculty. Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Places in this unit are limited, please contact Jayne Seward in the Discipline of Surgery office to be placed on the waitlist at jayne.seward@sydney.edu.au
This unit focuses on providing a foundation in the surgical skills required by doctors who are applying for surgical training positions and introduces many of the core competencies essential to surgeons during their training and career. On completion of this unit you will be familiar with current standards of treatment for surgical patients with regards to hospital care and technical skills. You will also gain experience in the practical application of the concepts of ethics, scholarship, professionalism, teaching, management and leadership that is expected of junior doctors who plan to pursue a surgical career.
Textbooks
Readings include papers from the scientific literature and selected textbook chapters.
SURG5032 Physiology for Surgeons

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Miguel Iglesias Session: Semester 2 Classes: online lectures will provide an overview of topics to supplement Ganong and other resources. Assessment: online quizzes (30%), participation in generation and peer review of assessment items (20%), online exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Online
This unit of study covers most of the basic and advanced physiology and some pathophysiology that training surgeons need to have at their fingertips. With a focus on the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and urinary systems, the systems and concepts studied confer a deep understanding of those at play during surgery. It provides students with a solid basis for preparation for the GSSE exam of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons.
Textbooks
Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th Edition. McGraw-Hill Education/ Medical and West's Respiratory Physiology, 10th Edition. Wolters Kluwer.
SURG5034 Surgical Anatomy based on GSSE

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares and Clinical Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Tutorials and practical classes with exercises. Please check the surgery timetable for dates. Assessment: Assessment will be based on both attendance and participation in weekly classes. self directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. A 90% attendance is required for the course, and a satisfactory pass mark in classwork. There will be a final compulsory trial GSSE exam of 80 MCQs and 20 Spots (held on the final day of the course). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The aim of the course is to assist students in the preparation of the Anatomy component of GSSE conducted by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). These modules comprise: upper limb, lower limb, head and neck thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. Each module has three components: a) Identification and SCORPIOS of anatomical structures in wet prosections of the anatomical area for the session. b) Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) exercises c) 'Spot' questions on anatomical prosection photographs.
Textbooks
Last's Anatomy 9th Edition, Editor: McMinn; Clinically Oriented Anatomy by Keith L Moore; Color Atlas of Anatomy, (Rohen, Yokochi, Lutjen, Drecoll); Lecture Notes on Anatomy, D.B.Moffat.
SURG5035 Surgical Research and Evaluation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kerry Hitos Session: Semester 1 Classes: Compulsory participation and assessment of 6 modules and tutorial discussion board (the unit will be delivered online): limit of 50 in semester 1 and 25 in semester 2 Assessment: On-line short answer questions cover the knowledge acquired for each module. Each set of questions must be completed and submitted by the due date and before students proceed to the next module. Answers to each module will contribute (40%) to the final score of the unit. A written assignment will also contribute (60%). Mode of delivery: Online
The objective of this unit is to provide candidates with an understanding of key methodological concepts of level one evidence based studies needed to conduct high quality surgical research. It will cover basic concepts and principles of good clinical research practice and provide the necessary skills on how to measure the quality of care. Key topics focus on how to identify, appraise, select and synthesise a systematic review and meta-analysis. The use of databases and registries and how to best present statistical analysis and summarise data. This unit will provide candidates with the skills to measure the quality of surgical care as well as evaluate surgical performance and measures of effects. Candidates will be able to critically appraise published statistics and learn to identify publication bias before applying the findings to their own clinical practice.
Textbooks
Notes will be linked to online teaching material.
SURG5036 Surg Research: Translation and Innovation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor Kerry Hitos Session: Semester 2 Classes: Compulsory participation and assessment of 6 modules and tutorial discussion board (the unit will be delivered online). Assessment: On-line short answer questions cover the knowledge acquired for each module. Each set of questions must be completed and submitted by the due date and before candidates proceed to the next module. Answers to each module will contribute (40%) to the final score of the unit. A written assignment will also contribute (60%). Mode of delivery: Online
The objective of this unit is to introduce candidates to the basic concepts of innovation. Participants will be able to identify and evaluate surgical innovation as well as focus on the methodological and practical challenges to rigorous surgical research. Candidates will be have the skills to design and complete level one evidence based research in surgery with a key focus on randomised and non-randomised controlled trials. The course will evaluate the complexity of surgical innovation and how to identify related factors influencing outcome. Candidates should be able to identify challenges facing the surgical research community when performing an evaluation of a therapeutic, procedure-based intervention. How to pinpoint the issues and deconstruct these into constituent methodological parts such that several important areas will be targeted for developing a systematic process that would guide appropriate, evidence based surgical practice. Ethical aspects in research and innovation will be addressed and the process of translational research will be reviewed. Other broad topics will focus on surgical oncology and survival analysis; evaluating performance when measuring the value of surgical research and the key concepts in diagnostic tests and accuracy in surgery.
Textbooks
Notes will be linked to online teaching material.
SURG5041 Surgical Oncology: Principles and Practice

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Pierre Chapuis, Associate Professor Brett Hambly Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online lectures, videos, tutorials and formative assessment. Prerequisites: PATH5000 Assumed knowledge: Candidates are expected generally to be undertaking advanced surgical training or similar Assessment: 1) one online MDT scenario 30% 2) critical review of a tumour-specific, current publication of your choice from the primary literature (max: 1,000 words, excluding references) 20% 3) weekly quizzes 50% Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Note: Department permission required for enrolment. Exemption may apply via special permission for advanced surgical trainees
The course runs over 13 weeks with the final week confined to assessment by face-to-face participation in an OSCE style format using a number of multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting scenarios. The emphasis is on multimodality patient care which offers the best chance for a favourable outcome for a variety of common tumour types including breast, colorectal, prostate, gastro-oesophageal junction and melanoma. The unit is designed to address each cancer type with an overview highlighting those issues of importance when discussing management at an MDT meeting including: anatomical pathology desciption of the tumour, clinicopathological staging, pathology ,staging, advances in Molecular Biology, Imaging, Surgery, Radiation and Medical oncology, new biologic therapies and the place of palliation of advanced disease. The emphasis is largely on self- directed learning with on-line lectures and reading material provided by a Faculty of clinicians drawn from various metropolitan teaching hospitals.
Specific Learning objectives: 1) to develop the skills to advocate evidence-based management for the individual needs of a patient in an MDT meeting and to understand the contribution of each clinical discipline in the decision making process 2) to demonstrate an adequate back ground knowledge of the natural history and classification of common tumours 3) to formulate a cancer specific management plan based on standardised reporting of the extent of tumour burden 4) to understand the influence of evidence-based, independent prognostic factors on outcomes and evolving concepts in cancer biology.
Textbooks
Due to the contemporary nature of the course an extensive bibliography of current reading material will be provided. These will be accessible electronically through the library.
SURG5042 Urological Oncology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Manish Patel Session: Semester 1 Classes: Compulsory 1 day face to face workshop, online discussion forums Assessment: 4 x 600 word case-based discussion board assignments (40%); workshop communication assessment (20%); participation in the generation and peer review of assessment items (20%); online quizzes (20%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
The management of urological cancers requires a thorough knowledge and understanding of the pathological basis, imaging, diagnosis and treatment options for all stages of disease. This unit of study aims to prepare the training surgeon, interested in urology or surgical oncology, for a career managing urological cancers. You will gain a deep understanding of uro-oncology - prostate, bladder, kidney, testis, penile and other rarer cancers ¿ including diagnosis, staging and effective management (in the ward and clinic). The importance of imaging and pathology, and the role and outcomes of surgery, radiotherapy and medical oncology in the management of these cancers will be considered.
Textbooks
Fast Facts Prostate Cancer, 9th Edition. Published 2017. Health Press
SURG5043 Surgical Endoscopy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr James Symons Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online lectures and tutorials; compulsory face to face 1 day workshop with simulation training at Royal Prince Alfred Surgical Simultion Centre. Assumed knowledge: Candidates are advised to have completed a surgical internship or similar with some prior exposure to endoscopy. Assessment: Simulation assessment (30%); 1x 1000 word critical appraisal (20%); weekly online quizzes (20%); participation in online case discussion forums (30%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Endoscopy has rapidly become the mainstay of modern, minimally invasive surgical practise and includes diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. In this unit of study you will gain insight into the current and potential surgical applications of endoscopy. You will develop a deep understanding of the core principles of endoscopy, its history, safety considerations and general troubleshooting, along with an overview of its uses in multiple subspecialties, and gain from practical experience at a compulsory simulation workshop.
Textbooks
Norton, I & Bourke, M (2017) Endoscopy Handbook. Gastroenterological Society of Australia.
SURG5027 Head and Neck by Dissection

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares, Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 2 Classes: Please refer to Surgery timetable for dates. Assumed knowledge: This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training. Assessment: Regular viva voce on wet specimens, MCQs, Spot tests. There is a compulsory test at the end of each module similar to that used in the GSSE. Attendance is compulsory without a signed medical certificate within 5 days. You must attend 90% of the course. 30% for attendance, 40% for dissection, and 30% for final spot tests. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a face to face teaching course. Candidates dissect in supervised groups of 6, according to a strict daily dissection schedule, utilising team-based learning (TBL) methods. This is a proven technique for teaching clinical topographical anatomy to surgical trainees. Throughout this course there is a strong emphasis on applied clinical and surgical anatomy. Supervision is by surgeons. All candidates are given allotted tasks to prepare for presentation to the class prior to dissection. Self-directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. The student is expected to have read and learnt the appropriate texts, before coming to class. There are ongoing SCORPIOs carried out during the dissection. At the end of each module there is a summative examination. The areas covered by the dissection include skull, cranial nerves, face, special senses, gross neuroanatomy, superficial neck, salivary glands, infratemporal fossa, pterygopalatine fossa, deep neck, suboccipital triangle, mouth, pharynx, larynx, thyroid, parathyroid, root of neck, vertebral canal and spinal cord.
Textbooks
Cunninghams Manual of Practical Anatomy, Rachel Koshi, 16th ed, Vol 3, Oxford University Press.
SURG5028 Thorax, Back, Spinal Cord by Dissection

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares,Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1 Classes: Please refer to Surgery timetable for dates Assumed knowledge: This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training. Assessment: Regular viva voce on wet specimens, MCQs, Spot tests There is a final exam at the end of the module similar to that used in the GSSE. Attendance is compulsory without a signed medical certificate within 5 days. You must attend 90% of the course. 30% for attendance, 40% for dissection, and 30% for final spot tests. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a face to face teaching course. Candidates dissect in supervised groups of 6, according to a strict daily dissection schedule, utilising team-based learning (TBL) methods. This is a proven technique for teaching clinical topographical anatomy to surgical trainees. Throughout this course there is a strong emphasis on applied clinical and surgical anatomy. Supervision is by surgeons. All candidates are given allotted tasks to prepare for presentation to the class prior to dissection. Self-directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. The student is expected to have read and learnt the appropriate texts before coming to class. There are ongoing SCORPIOs carried out during the dissection. At the end of each module there is a summative examination. The dissection covers all aspects of the thorax, including body wall, thoracic wall, diaphragm, thoracic cavity, superior, anterior, middle and posterior mediastinum, pleura, lungs, heart, oesophagus, and osteology of thorax.
Textbooks
Cunninghams Manual of Practical Anatomy, Rachel Koshi, 16th ed, Vol 2, Oxford University Press.
SURG5029 Upper and Lower Extremities by Dissection

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares, Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1 Classes: Please refer to Surgery timetable for dates Assumed knowledge: This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training. Assessment: Regular viva voce on wet specimens, MCQs, Spot tests. There is a compulsory test at the end of each module. This test is at the same level of knowledge of the GSSE. Attendance is compulsory without a signed medical certificate within 5 days. You must attend 90% of the course. 30% for attendance, 40% for dissection, and 30% for final spot tests. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a face to face teaching course. Candidates dissect in supervised groups of 6, according to a strict daily dissection schedule, utilising team-based learning (TBL) methods. This is a proven technique for teaching clinical topographical anatomy to surgical trainees. Throughout this course there is a strong emphasis on applied clinical and surgical anatomy. Supervision is by specialist surgeons. All candidates are given allotted tasks to prepare for presentation to the class prior to dissection. Self directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. The student is expected to have read and learnt the appropriate texts before coming to class. There are ongoing SCORPIOs carried out during the dissection. At the end of each module there is a summative examination. The dissection course covers anterior compartment of the thigh, medial compartment of the thigh, gluteal region and hip joint, posterior compartment of thigh, popliteal fossa and knee joint, anterior compartment of the leg, dorsum of foot, lateral compartment of the leg, posterior compartment of the leg, sole of foot, ankle and foot joints, osteology of lower limb.
Textbooks
Cunninghams Manual of Practical Anatomy, Rachel Koshi, 16th ed, Vol 1, Oxford University Press.
SURG5030 Abdomen, Pelvis, Perineum by Dissection

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Professor Lindsay Wing, Adjunct Associate Professor Allan Meares, Professor Pierre Chapuis Session: Semester 1 Classes: Please refer to Surgery timetable for dates Assumed knowledge: This is an advanced course and it is recommended for advanced trainees who are preparing for the GSSE or for a SET program. It is also available if you have completed other Anatomy courses/training. Assessment: Regular viva voce on wet specimens, MCQs, Spot tests. There is a compulsory test at the end of each module, similar to that used in the GSSE. Attendance is compulsory without a signed medical certificate within 5 days. You must attend 90% of the course. 30% for attendance, 40% for dissection, and 30% for final spot tests. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a face to face teaching course. Candidates dissect in supervised groups of 6, according to a strict daily dissection schedule, utilising team-based learning (TBL) methods. This is a proven technique for teaching clinical topographical anatomy to surgical trainees. Throughout this course there is a strong emphasis on applied clinical and surgical anatomy. Supervision is by specialist surgeons. All candidates are given allotted tasks to prepare for presentation to the class prior to dissection. Self-directed study is required before each of the sessions of approximately 10 hours per session as a minimum. The student is expected to have read and learnt the appropriate texts before coming to class. There are ongoing SCORPIOs carried out during the dissection. At the end of each module there is a summative examination. The course covers the anterior abdominal wall, abdominal cavity, peritoneum, vessels and nerves of the gut, gastro and intestinal tract, liver and biliary tract, pancreas, spleen, posterior abdominal wall, kidneys, ureters, and suprarenal glands, rectum, urinary bladder and ureters is in the pelvis, male internal genital organs, female internal genital organs and urethra, pelvic peritoneum, vessels and nerves, perineum, male urogenital region, female urogenital region, pelvic joints and ligaments, lumbosacral plexus.
Textbooks
Cunninghams Manual of Practical Anatomy, Rachel Koshi, 16th ed, Vol 2, Oxford University Press.

Optional Electives

The following units are for the Surgical Sciences distance/online stream only.
Note: These units do not transfer to other streams.
CEPI5315 Introduction to Systematic Reviews

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sharon Reid Session: Semester 1 Classes: all students will work through four online-modules and participate in weekly online tutorials (asynchronously) or on-campus tutorials, depending on mode enrolled, over 12 weeks Corequisites: CEPI5100 or PUBH5010 Prohibitions: CEPI5203 or CEPI5102 or CEPI5314 Assessment: module assessment tasks (30%) and 1 x 4500 word assignment (70%) after the modules are completed Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
In this unit of study, we aim to introduce you to systematic reviews and meta-analyses of relevance to healthcare with a particular focus on systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials. Students can choose to learn in online or normal day (on-campus) mode. All students will work through four online modules, delivered over twelve weeks, addressing the following topics at an introductory level: What and why systematic reviews (and meta-analysis); How to formulate answerable healthcare questions and searching for systematic reviews; How a systematic review is conducted and understanding the principles of meta-analysis; and How to appraise, interpret and apply the results of systematic reviews (and meta-analyses). Students will have the opportunity to discuss unit of study learning materials in online tutorials or via weekly (on-campus) tutorials. Readings and other learning materials will be available via eLearning.
Textbooks
Readings and access to other learning resources are available through the unit's eLearning site
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Tim Driscoll, Dr Erin Mathieu Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 1hr lecture and 1x 2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - face to face or their equivalent online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 or CEPI5100 Assessment: 1x 6 page assignment (25%), 10 weekly quizzes (5% in total) and 1x 2.5hr supervised open-book exam (70%). For distance students, it may be possible to complete the exam externally with the approval of the course coordinator. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
This unit provides students with core skills in epidemiology, particularly the ability to critically appraise public health and clinical epidemiological research literature regarding public health and clinical issues. This unit covers: study types; measures of frequency and association; measurement bias; confounding/effect modification; randomized trials; systematic reviews; screening and test evaluation; infectious disease outbreaks; measuring public health impact and use and interpretation of population health data. In addition to formal classes or their on-line equivalent, it is expected that students spend an additional 2-3 hours at least each week preparing for their tutorials.
Textbooks
Webb, PW. Bain, CJ. and Page, A. Essential Epidemiology: An Introduction for Students and Health Professionals Third Edition: Cambridge University Press 2017.
PUBH5020 Chronic Disease Prevention and Control

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Adrian Bauman Session: Semester 1 Classes: 20 hrs online lectures, plus 6-7 weeks of online discussions Assumed knowledge: PUBH5033, PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 or equivalent Assessment: 1000 word assignment (20%), 2000 word assignment (40%), on-line discussions (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: PUBH5020 is an advanced MPH elective in the area of chronic disease prevention. Some epidemiological concepts, such as population attributable risk and introductory concepts in health promotion are expected knowledge for understanding this unit. For example, attributable risk is necessary to understand the Burden of Disease concept in NCD prevention, and is part of Module 2 of this unit. In addition, this MPH elective predominantly takes a population and global perspective on NCD prevention with a lesser emphasis on clinical or health services prevention perspectives.
This course provides a systems-informed and high-level public health approach to examining the global issue of chronic diseases (e.g. cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, chronic lung disease) and their prevention. The course examines why chronic disease is a global problem, and describes WHO frameworks for chronic disease prevention. It also reviews the epidemiology of specific chronic diseases including trends in and surveillance of these conditions, and their antecedent risk factors and conditions, and discusses the global (and country level) burden of disease. The unit will include some discussion of clinical prevention, in particular, the role of primary care, other clinicians and allied health professionals in providing lifestyle advice for people with chronic disease (tertiary prevention) and for people without chronic disease (primary prevention). Students will be involved in evaluating the effectiveness of different prevention strategies and will examine the role of health policy and strategic planning in developing effective and sustainable chronic disease management programs and health services in different settings (in Australia and the region). This unit is complementary to PUBH5555 Lifestyle and Chronic Disease Prevention, which focuses on addressing each of the major individual behavioural risk factors.
Textbooks
Readings for this unit will be available on the eLearning site
PUBH5019 Cancer Prevention and Control

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: TBC Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5 x online modules each comprising online lectures, readings and quiz, plus 4 x online group interactions. Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 Assessment: 5 x online quizzes (10%) + 1 x 1500wd assignment (30%) + 1 x 3000wd assignment (50%) + participation in online discussions for at least three modules (10%). Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit introduces students to the concepts, methods and applications underpinning cancer prevention and control at the population level. It is designed to offer a broad-based perspective on public health approaches to cancer across the continuum from prevention through to screening, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and palliative and supportive care. We will critically appraise policies and interventions that have the potential to reduce cancer incidence and mortality, prolong survival and improve quality of life. Although each topic will be presented in the context of specific cancers and the Australian health care system, the principles and frameworks will be relevant for regional and global cancer control efforts. At the completion of the unit, students will be equipped with the basic tools to design, plan, implement and evaluate cancer control strategies and programs.
Textbooks
Elwood JM, Sutcliffe SB (Eds). Cancer Control. New York: Oxford University Press, 2010 (pp1-469)