General Surgical Oncology
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada · 1.0 · 24 EPAs
Also available in French.
Every EPA in the published guide, shown as the form DebriefMD fills in, with its fields and answer options.
Transition to Discipline
TTD-1
Applying the skills of general surgery in surgical oncology procedures
Key features and assessment plan
- The focus of this EPA is the application of the surgical skills acquired in General Surgery in the new setting of general surgical oncology residency. - This includes the following surgical skills: patient positioning, selection and appropriate use of equipment (e.g., sutures, retractors, cautery/energy devices and drains), incision planning, tissue handling, and closure techniques. - This EPA may be observed in any surgical oncology operation with a general anesthetic; observation of this EPA does not require completion of the surgical procedure from start to finish.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Set-up, position, and drape the patient for the procedure
- ME 5.2 Participate in the surgical safety checklist or equivalent
- ME 1.3 Apply knowledge of anatomy, key landmarks, and the surgical procedure
- ME 3.4 Perform safe dissection of relevant structures and tissue layers with gentle tissue handling
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to intraoperative challenges
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
Communicator
- COM 5.1 Document the surgical procedure in a complete and timely manner
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Foundations
F-1
Assessing patients with a common uncomplicated cancer and developing plans for surgical management
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the application of clinical skills achieved in General Surgery in the new setting of general surgical oncology residency. - This includes performing a history and physical examination geared to the tumour-site, reviewing and interpreting test results (pathology, imaging, bloodwork), identifying and evaluating surgical options within the scope of available local resources and treatment pathways, recognizing the need for and involving other services, and determining the preferred treatment plan. - It also includes conveying the treatment options to the patient and family, shared decision-making about the course of action, and, as relevant, obtaining informed consent for treatment. - Examples of common uncomplicated cancers include early breast cancer, early melanoma, early upper rectal cancer, and uncomplicated colon cancer.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor, Core or TTP resident, or fellow Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Type of cancer: early breast cancer; early melanoma; early upper rectal cancer; uncomplicated colon cancer; other uncomplicated cancer (write in) Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Type of cancer
- early breast cancer
- early melanoma
- early upper rectal cancer
- uncomplicated colon cancer
- other uncomplicated cancer (write in)
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Elicit a history and perform a physical exam relevant to the presentation
- ME 2.2 Integrate the clinical data to establish stage and prognosis of the condition
- ME 2.4 Develop a plan for management, which may include additional investigations, surgery, and/or non-operative intervention
- ME 4.1 Determine if there is a need for consultation with another specialist or service
- ME 3.2 Obtain informed consent for the planned management
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Provide information to the patient and/or family about the condition and plans for management clearly and compassionately
- COM 5.1 Document the clinical encounter to adequately convey clinical reasoning and rationale for decisions and/or recommendations
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-2
Providing ongoing post-operative care in the cancer clinic setting
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the care that occurs after a general surgical oncology procedure and includes follow-up for recovery and follow-up for cancer management. - This includes evaluating the patient for appropriate recovery milestones, managing post- operative symptoms, identifying complications if present and proposing a management plan, and, when needed, referring to other health professionals who may facilitate recovery (e.g., wound care specialists, physiotherapists). - It also includes communicating the findings of the pathology report and discussing next steps in the management of the patient’s cancer, which may include further treatment, surveillance, and/or the recommendations of the multidisciplinary team. - This EPA includes routine and complex cases. Examples of complex cases include but are not limited to unexpected pathology results (positive margins ex) and persistent post- operative issues (wound infections, lymphedema, nerve or chronic pain, failure to thrive).
Direct observation or case review (review of clinical note/orders and prescriptions) by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Case type: breast; colorectal; endocrine; sarcoma; skin/soft tissue; upper GI/HPB - Complexity: routine; complex - Visit components observed (select all that apply): complex wound management; discussion of pathology; multi-modal treatment planning; post-operative symptom management; surveillance strategy; other Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 2 complex - At least 2 different visit components - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Case type
- breast
- colorectal
- endocrine
- sarcoma
- skin/soft tissue
- upper GI/HPB
Complexity
- routine
- complex
Visit components observed
- complex wound management
- discussion of pathology
- multi-modal treatment planning
- post-operative symptom management
- surveillance strategy
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.4 Develop a plan to manage any post-operative symptoms and/or complications
- ME 4.1 Determine if there is a need for consultation with another specialist or service
- ME 2.2 Interpret the results of investigations done for diagnosis and/or staging (pathology, imaging, tumour markers)
- ME 2.2 Determine if the case warrants discussion at multidisciplinary rounds
- ME 2.4 Develop a plan for management, which may include surveillance, additional investigations, medical treatment, or further surgical intervention
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Provide information to the patient and/or family about the condition and plans for management clearly and compassionately
- COM 4.3 Answer questions from the patient and/or family
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Provide recommendations for resources for patient education and support
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
F-3
Leading the general surgical oncology service
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the efficient management of the service in the role of a team leader/junior attending. - This includes supporting other members of the surgical housestaff team, providing supervision and teaching for junior learners, overseeing patient management, and working effectively with the interprofessional team. It does not include intraoperative performance. - The observation of this EPA is not based on a single patient encounter, but rather on the resident performance over a period of at least one week.
Direct and indirect observation by supervisor with input from multiple observers Use Form 3. Form collects information on: - Includes input from (write in): Collect 1 observation of achievement
Suggested observations: 1
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 1.1 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for decisions regarding patient care
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Delegate responsibilities to members of the health care team appropriate to their scope of practice and level of expertise
- COL 1.3 Communicate effectively with other members of the health care team
Leader
- L 4.1 Integrate supervisory and teaching responsibilities into the overall management of the clinical service
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Facilitate timely patient access to services and resources
Scholar
- S 3.4 Demonstrate an evidence-based approach to clinical management
Professional
- P 1.1 Behave in a professional manner
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Core
C-1
Developing multidisciplinary treatment plans for patients with a newly diagnosed complex cancer
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the decision-making inherent in the development of multi-modal treatment plans for patients with complex cancer and includes decisions about which services to involve and the sequencing and timing of the various treatment modalities. - This includes performing a history and physical examination relevant to the patient’s presentations, reviewing and interpreting test results (pathology, imaging, bloodwork), identifying and evaluating treatment options within the scope of available local resources and treatment pathways, and determining the preferred treatment plan. - It also includes conveying the treatment options to the patient and family, shared decision-making about the course of action, and, as relevant, obtaining informed consent for treatment.
Direct observation or case review by surgeon, medical oncologist, or radiation oncologist Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Disease site: breast; cutaneous; low rectal cancer; metastatic/recurrent cancer; peritoneal; retroperitoneal sarcoma; stomach/HPB Collect 7 observations of achievement - At least 1 of each disease site - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 7
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Disease site
- breast
- cutaneous
- low rectal cancer
- metastatic/recurrent cancer
- peritoneal
- retroperitoneal sarcoma
- stomach/HPB
Medical Expert
- ME 1.4 Perform a clinical assessment that addresses all relevant issues
- ME 2.2 Integrate the clinical data to establish stage and prognosis of the condition
- ME 3.1 Identify and evaluate the available options for treatment, including surgical intervention, systemic therapy, and/or radiation therapy, or best supportive care
- ME 2.3 Establish goals of care with the patient and family
- ME 4.1 Determine if there is a need for consultation with another specialist or service
- ME 2.2 Determine if the case warrants discussion at multidisciplinary rounds
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan, including the timing and sequence for multi-modal treatments
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Provide information about prognosis and treatment options, including the choice of surgical technique and other treatment modalities
Health Advocate
- HA 1.2 Provide recommendations for resources for patient education and support
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-2
Assessing and managing patients with a suspected or confirmed hereditary cancer syndrome
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on applying knowledge of genetic syndromes and their inheritance and management. - This includes gathering a personal and family history of cancer, identifying the possibility of a hereditary cancer syndrome, and determining based on the available information if the individual’s risk warrants referral for genetic testing and/or to a genetics counsellor. - It may also include providing recommendations regarding surveillance and risk- reducing surgery, including options for, risks of, and alternatives to surgery.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Suspected genetic syndrome: BRCA; CDH1; Lynch; MEN; other (write in) Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different suspected genetic syndromes
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Suspected genetic syndrome
- BRCA
- CDH1
- Lynch
- MEN
- other (write in)
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Assess the likelihood that the patient has a hereditary cancer syndrome
- ME 2.2 Determine the need for referral for genetic testing and/or genetic counselling
- ME 2.4 Provide recommendations regarding surveillance and risk-reducing treatment options
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Share information and explanations clearly and compassionately
Health Advocate
- HA 1.3 Discuss the implications of genetic testing for family members
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-3
Assessing and managing patients with an urgent/emergent presentation
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the development of plans for management or temporization of an urgent/emergent presentation that incorporates knowledge about the patient’s cancer and related paraneoplastic manifestations and takes into consideration future cancer treatment plans. - Examples include bleeding in cancers, resection versus diversion for obstructing cancer, endocrine tumours and hormonal storm, complication of immunotherapy, and effects of antiangiogenic agents and chemotherapy. - This includes performing the assessment in a timely manner and developing and implementing a treatment plan in the context of the type and stage of the cancer and its treatment, and may include involving other services (e.g., for stenting, embolization, radiation therapy). - This EPA does not include management of post-operative complications; that is another EPA of this stage.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Presentation: bleeding; malignant GI obstruction; metabolic/hormonal; perforation; other (write in) Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 malignant GI obstruction - At least 1 other presentation
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Presentation
- bleeding
- malignant GI obstruction
- metabolic/hormonal
- perforation
- other (write in)
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Determine the acuity of the issue and the priorities for patient care
- ME 2.2 Synthesize information about the type and stage of the cancer and any previous surgical, radiation, and/or medical treatment
- ME 2.4 Develop and implement a management plan with appropriate consideration for future definitive cancer management
- ME 2.3 Review goals of care and realign if needed
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Provide information to the patient and/or family about the condition and plans for management clearly and compassionately
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-4
Providing palliative management for patients with presentations related to incurable cancer
Key features and assessment plan
- This includes assessment of the patient and the issue, investigation and diagnosis as relevant, and management of the issue consistent with the patient’s goals of care. - Management may include medical therapy, procedural or surgical intervention, and consultation with other services. - Examples of presentations include: malignant bowel obstruction, unresectable GI tumour, and high volume pseudomyxoma or other peritoneal surface malignancy. - An important aspect of this EPA is effective communication with patients and families about the diagnosis, prognosis, or change in status and their priorities and goals of care, which may include transitions to different goals of treatment or palliation.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Presentation: malignant bowel obstruction; perforated incurable GI malignancy; treatment of incurable symptomatic malignancy; other Collect 2 observations of achievement: - At least 1 malignant bowel obstruction - At least 1 other presentation
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Presentation
- malignant bowel obstruction
- perforated incurable GI malignancy
- treatment of incurable symptomatic malignancy
- other
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Synthesize information about the type and stage of the cancer and any previous surgical, radiation, and/or medical treatment
- ME 3.1 Identify and evaluate the available options for treatment, including surgical intervention, systemic therapy, and/or radiation therapy, or best supportive care
- ME 2.3 Share concerns about goals that may not be achievable and initiate discussion about addressing these concerns
- ME 2.4 Develop a management plan consistent with the patient’s goals of care
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Provide the patient/family with information about prognosis and treatment options, including potential outcomes and adverse effects
- COM 5.1 Document the encounter to convey the discussion and its outcome
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-5
Managing the care of patients with major post-operative complications
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on recognizing, investigating, and managing the complication, which may require takeback to the OR, initiation of major transfusion protocols, and/or involvement of other services, such as critical care and interventional radiology. - Examples of major complications include an anastomotic leak, hemorrhage, development of a fistula, or liver failure. - This EPA also includes disclosing the adverse event and any implications for future/planned cancer care to the patient and/or family and communicating effectively with them throughout the management of the complication.
Direct observation or case review by supervisor Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Select and/or interpret investigations in context of most likely diagnosis
- ME 2.4 Develop and implement a management plan
- ME 4.1 Determine if there is a need for consultation with another specialist or service
- ME 3.3 Consider urgency and potential for deterioration in advocating for the timely execution of a procedure or therapy
Communicator
- COM 3.2 Communicate the reasons for unanticipated clinical outcomes and/or disclose adverse events to the patient and/or family
- COM 5.1 Document the clinical encounter to adequately convey clinical reasoning and rationale for decisions and/or recommendations
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-6
Participating in the accrual of patients to clinical trials
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA highlights the central role of clinical trials in patient care. - It includes identifying opportunities to participate in clinical trials, with a focus on the discussion with patients and families that explains the study and presents information required for a decision regarding consent for participation. - This EPA may be observed with any clinical trial and during surgical, medical oncology, or radiation oncology rotations.
Direct observation or case review by surgeon, medical oncologist, or radiation oncologist Use Form 1 Collect 1 observation of achievement
Suggested observations: 1
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.4 Identify the role and availability of clinical trial participation as a therapeutic option
- ME 2.4 Discuss the degree of uncertainty inherent to the clinical situation
Communicator
- COM 3.1 Convey information about the treatment options (including rationale, adverse effects, expected outcomes, and alternative treatments) clearly and accurately
- COM 3.1 Verify understanding of the information conveyed
Scholar
- S 4.2 Incorporate ethical principles of research in discussions regarding enrollment for a clinical trial
- S 4.2 Advise regarding the right not to participate
- S 4.3 Balance the roles and responsibilities of a researcher with the clinical roles and responsibilities of a physician
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-7
Performing surgery for breast cancer
Key features and assessment plan
- Building on the skills of General Surgery, this EPA includes performance of the following procedures: breast cancer resection; skin-sparing mastectomy (various approaches); nipple-sparing mastectomy (various approaches, e.g. inframammary and lateral); level 2 oncoplastic breast reconstruction; level 2 axillary dissection. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure and potential back-up plans, coordination with plastic surgery, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Procedure: skin-sparing mastectomy; nipple-sparing mastectomy; level 2 oncoplastic breast reconstruction; level 2 axillary dissection Collect 6 observations of achievement - At least 2 skin-sparing mastectomy - At least 1 nipple-sparing mastectomy - At least 2 level 2 oncoplastic breast reconstruction - At least 1 level 2 axillary dissection - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 6
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Procedure
- skin-sparing mastectomy
- nipple-sparing mastectomy
- level 2 oncoplastic breast reconstruction
- level 2 axillary dissection
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-8
Performing surgery for cancer of the stomach
Key features and assessment plan
- Building on the skills of General Surgery, this EPA includes performance of the following procedures: total/subtotal gastrectomy; partial gastric resection; D2 retroperitoneal lymph node dissection; esophagojejunostomy. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, identifying the possible need for multivisceral resection, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure including the technical skills of dissection along major vascular structures, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical approach: laparoscopic; open; robotic - Procedure (select all that apply): esophagojejunostomy; gastrectomy-total; gastrectomy-subtotal; gastric resection-wedge/partial; gastrojejunostomy; D2 lymphadenectomy Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 1 esophagojejunostomy - At least 2 total gastrectomies - At least 2 D2 lymphadenectomies
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical approach
- laparoscopic
- open
- robotic
Procedure
- esophagojejunostomy
- gastrectomy-total
- gastrectomy-subtotal
- gastric resection-wedge/partial
- gastrojejunostomy
- D2 lymphadenectomy
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-9
Performing surgery for cancer of the small bowel
Key features and assessment plan
- Building on the skills of General Surgery, this EPA includes performance of the following procedures: small bowel resection for neuroendocrine tumour, adenocarcinoma, GIST, or lymphoma and/or metastatic disease; proximal jejunal resection; relevant lymphadenectomy. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, identifying the possible need for multivisceral resection, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure including the technical skills of dissection along major vascular structures, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical approach: laparoscopic; open; robotic - Location: proximal jejunal resection; mid-distal small bowel - Complexity: routine; complex Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 complex - At least 2 observers
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical approach
- laparoscopic
- open
- robotic
Location
- proximal jejunal resection
- mid-distal small bowel
Complexity
- routine
- complex
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-10
Performing surgery for cancers of the colon, rectum, and anus
Key features and assessment plan
- Building on the skills of General Surgery, this EPA includes performance of the following surgical skills: total mesorectal excision; pelvic side wall dissection; multivisceral resection; major vascular dissection; low rectal anastomosis; perineal resection (of an APR). - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, anticipating the need for multidisciplinary collaboration, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure (including identifying critical structures, i.e., ureter), and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical approach: laparoscopic; open; robotic - Site: colon; rectum/anus - Surgical skill (select all that apply): total mesorectal excision; pelvic side wall dissection; multivisceral resection; major vascular dissection; low rectal anastomosis; perineal resection Collect 6 observations of achievement - At least 3 rectum/anus - At least 4 different surgical skills
Suggested observations: 6
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical approach
- laparoscopic
- open
- robotic
Site
- colon
- rectum/anus
Surgical skill
- total mesorectal excision
- pelvic side wall dissection
- multivisceral resection
- major vascular dissection
- low rectal anastomosis
- perineal resection
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 1.3 Apply knowledge of pelvic sidewall, vascular, nerve, perineal, and nodal anatomy
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform safe dissection of relevant structures and tissue layers with gentle tissue handling
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-11
Performing surgery for peritoneal surface malignancies
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes performance of the following procedures: diagnostic laparoscopy/laparotomy and calculation of the PCI (peritoneal cancer index) score; cytoreduction surgery (multivisceral resection) with major peritonectomy (including diaphragm or pelvis) with or without HIPEC; Krukenberg resection. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, intraoperative decision-making regarding the extent and resectability of the tumour versus need to abort, performing the procedure including, when relevant, set-up and troubleshooting of HIPEC technical equipment, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical skill (select all that apply): HIPEC; Krukenberg resection; major peritonectomy; PCI calculation Collect 4 observations of achievement - At least 1 HIPEC - At least 1 Krukenberg resection - At least 1 major peritonectomy - At least 1 PCI calculation
Suggested observations: 4
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical skill
- HIPEC
- Krukenberg resection
- major peritonectomy
- PCI calculation
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-12
Performing surgery for hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancers
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the surgical management of primary and metastatic hepatic and biliary (major anatomic resection and non-anatomic resection) as well as pancreatic tumours, including those located at the pancreatic head (Whipple) or tail (distal pancreatectomy) and endocrine tumours. - This includes performance of the following surgical skills: mobilization of the liver (right and left lobes); portal dissection (vascular, biliary, nodal); biliary-enteric anastomosis; transection of pancreatic parenchyma. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, anticipating the need for multidisciplinary collaboration, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical approach: laparoscopic; open; robotic - Surgical skill (select all that apply): mobilization of the liver; portal dissection; biliary-enteric anastomosis; transection of pancreatic parenchyma Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 1 mobilization of the liver - At least 1 other surgical skill - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical approach
- laparoscopic
- open
- robotic
Surgical skill
- mobilization of the liver
- portal dissection
- biliary-enteric anastomosis
- transection of pancreatic parenchyma
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-13
Performing surgery for primary cutaneous cancers
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes margin selection, lymph node staging, and appropriate closure technique (including local flap closures), and includes management of in-transit melanoma (resection, injection, or isolated limb infusion/perfusion). - It may include, as relevant, radical lymphadenectomy such as radical axillary lymph node dissection (levels I, II, III) and radical inguinal lymph node dissection (superficial inguinal and/or deep iliac/obturator). - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, anticipating the need for multidisciplinary collaboration, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure, and establishing the plan for post-operative care. - This EPA does not apply to cases of simple wide local excision without nodal/in-transit intervention.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Tumour type: early stage; locally advanced; in-transit - Task (select all that apply): axillary lymph node dissection (level III); inguinal lymph node dissection-superficial; inguinal lymph node dissection-deep; management of in- transit disease; N/A - Flap: simple; complex; none Collect 5 observations of achievement - At least 1 level III axillary lymph node dissection - At least 1 management of in-transit disease - At least 1 superficial inguinal lymph node dissection - At least 1 deep inguinal lymph node dissection - At least 1 complex flap - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 5
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Tumour type
- early stage
- locally advanced
- in-transit
Task
- axillary lymph node dissection (level III)
- inguinal lymph node dissection-superficial
- inguinal lymph node dissection-deep
- management of in- transit disease
- N/A
Flap
- simple
- complex
- none
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, local procedure, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-14
Performing surgery for soft tissue sarcoma
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes the following procedures: wide resection with appropriate closure technique; multivisceral resection for retroperitoneal sarcoma or locally advanced GIST. - This includes preparing for and planning the procedure, anticipating the need for multi- specialty surgical teams, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure (including identifying critical structures, i.e., adjacent organs, vessels, nerves, and performing vascular dissection, resection and reconstruction/repair, i.e., iliac vessels, IVC, abdominal wall resection), and establishing the plan for post- operative care. - This EPA does not apply to resection of GIST without multivisceral resection (that is a procedure within another EPA of this stage).
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Case: truncal/extremity; advanced GIST; retroperitoneal sarcoma; other - Multivisceral resection: no; yes - Surgical skill (select all that apply): abdominal wall resection; bladder resection; diaphragm resection; major nerve dissection; major vascular dissection; nephrectomy; pancreatectomy; splenectomy Collect 3 observations of achievement - At least 1 retroperitoneal sarcoma - At least 1 multivisceral resection
Suggested observations: 3
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Case
- truncal/extremity
- advanced GIST
- retroperitoneal sarcoma
- other
Multivisceral resection
- no
- yes
Surgical skill
- abdominal wall resection
- bladder resection
- diaphragm resection
- major nerve dissection
- major vascular dissection
- nephrectomy
- pancreatectomy
- splenectomy
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-15
Performing surgery for endocrine tumours
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the surgical management of endocrine tumours, including cancers arising in the endocrine glands, paragangliomas, and functional adrenal tumours. - Procedures relevant to this EPA include adrenalectomy, parathyroidectomy, thyroidectomy, and resection of paraganglioma. - This EPA includes preparing for and planning the procedure, anticipating metabolic impacts of tissue handling, demonstrating knowledge of potential complications, performing the procedure, and establishing the plan for post-operative care.
Direct observation by supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Surgical approach: laparoscopic; open; robotic - Procedure: adrenalectomy; parathyroidectomy; paraganglioma resection; thyroidectomy - Lymph node dissection: no; yes Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Surgical approach
- laparoscopic
- open
- robotic
Procedure
- adrenalectomy
- parathyroidectomy
- paraganglioma resection
- thyroidectomy
Lymph node dissection
- no
- yes
Medical Expert
- ME 3.4 Plan most appropriate incision, obtain surgical exposure, identify key landmarks and mobilize tissue as appropriate
- ME 3.4 Assess disease burden and evaluate ability to complete the proposed procedure
- ME 3.4 Demonstrate intraoperative judgement, fluidity of movement, and forward progression
- ME 3.4 Perform dissection, mobilization, and/or radical resection of affected structure(s) and/or appropriate reconstruction
- ME 3.4 Anticipate, recognize, and respond to situations that require change in operative plan or management
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with operative assistants and members of the OR team
Professional
- P 1.2 Prepare for the procedure, reviewing relevant investigations and pre- operative assessments/consults
- P 1.1 Work within personal limits, asking for help as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
C-16
Planning the surgical approach for complex surgical oncology procedures
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on developing surgical plans for patients with complex cancers or presentations. Examples include patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma and those patients who need pelvic exenteration, cytoreductive surgery, Whipple’s procedure, major vascular resection, multivisceral resection, or complex oncoplastic breast surgery (chest wall resection or level III). - This EPA includes defining the resectability of the cancer (tumour and patient factors), anatomic considerations and surgical goals/expectations, anticipating challenges to the operative approach as well as potential pitfalls and complications, making back-up plans and plans if needing to abort the procedure, identifying the need for multidisciplinary collaboration (planned and potential) and any special requirements for equipment, positioning or anesthetic management (e.g. special equipment), and making plans for post-operative care.
Case preparation and review with supervisor Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Cancer type: breast; colorectal; cutaneous; gastric; hepatobiliary; peritoneal; sarcoma; other - Procedure: complex breast cancer resection/reconstruction; cytoreductive surgery; extended liver resection; multivisceral resection; pelvic exenteration; soft tissue resection/reconstruction; Whipple’s procedure Collect 6 observations of achievement - At least 4 different procedures - At least 3 different observers
Suggested observations: 6
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Cancer type
- breast
- colorectal
- cutaneous
- gastric
- hepatobiliary
- peritoneal
- sarcoma
- other
Procedure
- complex breast cancer resection/reconstruction
- cytoreductive surgery
- extended liver resection
- multivisceral resection
- pelvic exenteration
- soft tissue resection/reconstruction
- Whipple’s procedure
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Determine whether the patient’s cancer is resectable with curative intent
- ME 3.1 Integrate all sources of information to develop the surgical approach
- ME 3.1 Anticipate challenges to and pitfalls and complications of the planned approach
- ME 3.1 Develop back-up plan and establish indications to abort the procedure
- ME 3.1 Ascertain requirements for special equipment, positioning, or anesthetic management
- ME 2.4 Anticipate peri-procedural issues and complications, and incorporate these considerations in the management plan
- ME 3.4 Establish plans for post-operative care
Collaborator
- COL 1.3 Consult with colleagues with different expertise, as needed
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
Transition to Practice
TTP-1
Managing an outpatient clinic
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes ensuring that patients are evaluated, investigations are ordered, follow-up is planned (including operative intervention if required) and documentation/dictation is completed. - This EPA requires managing patients efficiently in the ambulatory/outpatient setting, being cognizant of wait-times, prioritizing patients, collaborating effectively with other health care professionals and support staff, and using resources appropriately. - This EPA may be observed in clinics located in a hospital or private office setting. - The observation of this EPA is based on at least one half-day of clinic or representative sample of patients within a clinic.
Direct or indirect observation by supervisor Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.1 Triage referrals on the basis of the patient’s condition
- ME 2.4 Establish patient-centred management plans
- ME 3.1 Identify operative cases with appropriate urgency, duration, and equipment and patient preparation
Communicator
- COM 5.1 Document clinical encounters in an accurate, complete and timely manner
Collaborator
- COL 1.2 Work effectively with outpatient clinic staff
Leader
- L 4.1 Manage time effectively in the outpatient clinic
- L 4.1 Integrate supervisory and teaching responsibilities into the overall management of the clinic
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
Professional
- P 1.1 Behave in a professional manner
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
TTP-2
Presenting cases at multidisciplinary cancer conference
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on the surgical oncologist’s role within and contributions to the multidisciplinary team with regards to shared decision-making about patient management. - This includes reviewing, synthesizing, and presenting a case synopsis, highlighting the challenges and areas of controversy, engaging/soliciting appropriate opinions from the group, contributing medical expertise to the team discussion, advocating for the patient, and demonstrating professional behaviour. - It may include a review of relevant literature. - It also includes summarizing the group consensus and documenting the discussion and plan.
Direct observation by surgeon, medical oncologist, or radiation oncologist Use Form 1 Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 2 different observers
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Medical Expert
- ME 2.2 Synthesize cases for discussion at multidisciplinary rounds
Collaborator
- COL 1.3 Encourage discussion, questions, and interaction relevant to the case
- COL 1.3 Communicate effectively with physicians and other health care professionals
- COL 2.2 Contribute to the development of consensus when there are differences in recommendations provided by other health care professionals
Health Advocate
- HA 1.1 Advocate for the patient’s needs and concerns
Scholar
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
- S 2.4 Present the information in an organized manner
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
TTP-3
Delivering scholarly and clinical teaching to a variety of audiences, including peers, junior trainees, an…
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA focuses on formal and informal teaching presentations to diverse audiences such as junior and senior learners and other health professionals. - This includes aligning the material and language to the needs of the audience and demonstrating effective presentation skills. - In clinical settings (clinic, operating room, bedside), it includes creating a positive learning environment and ensuring patient safety when learners are involved in their care. - In non-clinical settings, this may include formal presentations at journal club, rounds, academic half days, and mock-oral exams.
Direct observation by supervisor, which may include input from peers, junior trainees, and/or other health care professionals Use Form 1. Form collects information on: - Teaching activity: journal club; bedside/clinic; operative; academic half-day; other formal rounds; other Collect 2 observations of achievement - At least 1 in a non-clinical setting
Suggested observations: 2
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Teaching activity
- journal club
- bedside/clinic
- operative
- academic half-day
- other formal rounds
- other
Scholar
- S 2.4 Identify the learning needs and desired learning outcomes of others
- S 3.3 Critically evaluate the literature
- S 3.4 Integrate best evidence and clinical expertise
- S 2.2 Create a positive learning environment
- S 2.4 Present the information in an organized manner
- S 2.4 Provide adequate time for questions and discussion
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.
TTP-4
Advancing the discipline through scholarly work
Key features and assessment plan
- This EPA includes all aspects of performing scholarly work: identification of a question for investigation, literature review, project design, ethics application, data gathering, data analysis, reflective critique, and dissemination. - This may include scholarly activities related to clinical or basic science research, patient safety, quality improvement, or surgical education. - Scholarly product may include journal article, review article, guideline development, book chapter, or other written document. - Assessment is based on the submission of a completed scholarly project to the program in a form suitable for publication and presentation of the scholarly work at a local, national, or international meeting.
Review of submitted work by supervisor Use Form 4 Collect 1 observation of achievement
Suggested observations: 1
Entrustment (how much supervision did this activity need?)
- I had to do
- I had to talk them through
- I needed to prompt
- I needed to be there just in case
- I didn’t need to be there
Leader
- L 4.1 Organize work to manage clinical, scholarly, and other responsibilities
Scholar
- S 4.4 Select appropriate methods of addressing a given scholarly question
- S 4.4 Perform data analysis
- S 4.4 Integrate existing literature and findings of data collection
- S 4.5 Summarize and communicate the findings of research and scholarly inquiry
Case description
Feedback provided
Next steps
Copyright © 2025 The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Referenced and produced with permission.