LAUSR

Data on the short-term effects of hands-on procedural workshops have been reported, but data on the long-term effects are limited. Many physicians are uncomfortable doing nail procedures. This discomfort is likely because of a combination of factors, such as potential for scarring, lack of knowledge of the nail unit anatomy, lack of experience, and perception of increased time required to perform nail procedures. Dermatologists diagnose and treat nail disease; however, 58% of third year dermatology residents performed 10 or fewer nail procedures during residency and 25% reported only observational experience with nail procedures. Among the most surgically inclined, Mohs surgeons who performmore nail procedures in training tend to continue that practice and performmore surgeries when in practice, demonstrating that increased training can lead to sustained practice patterns. To help fill this education gap and provide increased surgical training, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has hosted a hands-on workshop to teach nail surgery. We wish to report on the short-term and long-term benefits of hands-on education as evidenced by reported Fellows of the American Academy of Dermatology comfort with nail procedures.