Postgraduate School of Neurosurgery

Integrated (i.e., core) training objectives
The trainee must have acquired satisfactory theoretical knowledge and professional competence in the clinical and instrumental diagnosis and treatment, including in emergency situations, of the most common surgical conditions. The trainee must acquire fundamental knowledge of the pathophysiology of various organs and systems, the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for recognizing diseases affecting the various body systems, the theoretical and practical knowledge of the main areas of instrumental and laboratory diagnostics related to the aforementioned diseases, and the ability to evaluate internal medicine and specialist connections and influences. Therefore, the trainee must be able to recognize the clinical and functional symptoms and signs of diseases affecting various organs and systems, having acquired the fundamental diagnostic, therapeutic, psychological, and ethical knowledge necessary for a comprehensive view of the patient and to evaluate intersystemic connections. To this end, the trainee must develop the ability to clinically assess the patient based on the medical history and physical examination. Develop critical and analytical diagnostic skills; become familiar with the main diagnostic procedures and laboratory and instrumental investigations; recognize and be able to address major medical emergencies; familiarize themselves with therapeutic resources to plan their optimal use and recognize their indications and contraindications, as well as the effects of interactions and potential iatrogenic effects; acquire fundamental knowledge of clinical research methodologies and pharmacological trials; and understand the fundamental issues related to prevention, public health, and social medicine. The trainee must also have acquired satisfactory theoretical knowledge and professional competence in the recognition and treatment, in emergency situations, of the most common pathologies. Finally, the trainee must have clinical and therapeutic knowledge of the most common pathologies covered by other categories of the class.

Basic Educational Objectives
In-depth knowledge of gross and microscopic anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry; adequate knowledge of genetics, statistics, and computer science; Basic knowledge of medical-surgical semiotics, laboratory and instrumental diagnostics, the medico-legal aspects governing healthcare in specialist settings, and the management and organizational principles of care; educational objectives of the School: in-depth knowledge of topographical anatomy relevant to surgical strategy, the principles of asepsis, the organization and environmental hygiene of operating rooms, general and specialist surgical instruments and suture materials, and traditional and alternative surgical methods; Basic knowledge and relevant practical experience that enable the correct assessment of individual patients' illnesses, the selection of the most appropriate medical and surgical treatment, the formulation of a risk-benefit analysis, the planning of immediate and long-term postoperative care, and the ability to address issues related to emergency interventions.

Similar or complementary objectives:
The acquisition of the basic knowledge and experience necessary to collaborate with other specialists in the diagnosis, strategy development, and execution of treatment for the most frequently encountered conditions, particularly those with multiple localizations, and to recognize the urgency and priority of treatment phases.

Mandatory professional development activities to achieve the objectives of this program include:
- Active participation in the diagnostic process, including through diagnostic imaging techniques, in at least 400 patients, including at least 120 cases involving patients with tumors or other neurosurgical conditions;
- At least 25 major surgical procedures, 10% of which as first surgeon. The remainder as second surgeon;
- At least 60 minor surgical procedures, 25% of which as first surgeon. The remainder as second surgeon;
- At least 300 minor surgical procedures, 40% of which as first surgeon (including outpatient and inpatient surgery procedures). The remainder as second surgeon.

Finally, the resident must have participated in three controlled clinical or basic research studies.

The resident may apply for the diploma after completing the professional development activities.

As part of their training, the trainee will be expected to learn the scientific foundations of the School's curriculum in order to achieve full maturity and professional competence, including an adequate ability to interpret scientific innovations and a critical understanding that allows them to consciously manage both their healthcare and their own development. This training may include participation in meetings, conferences, the production of scientific publications, and periods of attendance at qualified Italian and foreign institutions useful for their training.