Intercalated BSc Medical Sciences (Surgery) research projects

Research projects available for our intercalated BSc Medical Sciences (Surgery) can be found below.

Off
Guidelines compliance and risk management outcomes in women with BRCA gene mutations

Main Supervisor

Professor Lynda Wyld (l.wyld@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Ms Jenna Morgan (j.morgan@sheffield.ac.uk)

Aim and Objectives

To determine the compliance of risk management strategies in women with BRCA carriers, to determine the risk management choices of BRCA carriers
to determine patient satisfaction with risk management choices and outcomes in BRCA carriers

Research Methodology

A 3 phase project with an initial literature review focused on decision making in BRCA gene carriers, followed by a survey of gene carriers within our unit (n=160 women) to look at whether guidelines were complied with in offering choices and delivery of services and lastly a patient satisfaction survey.

Expected Outcome

To determine whether NICE guidelines have been complied with in offering risk management choices (screening, drug treatment of risk reducing mastectomy and/or oophorectomy) and how this translates into long term outcomes/treatment side effects and also whether patients are happy with the long term outcomes of their management choices

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Statistical methods, literature review methods, data collection and organisation, survey design and analysis

Defining malnutrition in small bowel obstruction using the Global Leadership in Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria

Main Supervisor

Mr Danny Ashmore (dlashmore1@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Dr Tim Wilson (tim.wilson1@nhs.net)

Aim and Objectives

• To define the incidence of malnutrition using GLIM criteria in patients with small bowel obstruction and compare these to the existing screening tool for malnutrition (MUST)

• To evaluate the use of nutritional support (TPN) and surgical outcomes in comparison to the GLIM score of patients with small bowel obstruction.

Research Methodology

As part of a quality improvement programme GLIM scores will be collected for patients admitted with small bowel obstruction, in addition to existing malnutrition screening (MUST). At risk patients will be referred on to the nutritional support team for early assessment and monitoring.

Prospective data, including GLIM and MUST scores will be routinely collected. The student will collect further patient outcome data from the hospital records (operations, complications, death, length of stay) and analyse these along side the nutrition data. They will also be trained to measure (sarcopenia) from CT scans to augment the GLIM scores.

Expected Outcome

This study is expected to improve our understanding of how to measure nutritional risk in emergency surgical patients and it is hoped that this will lead to improved outcomes in this patient group. It is expected that the outcomes of the study will be presented to national conferences and may be suitable for publication if sufficient data was collected.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

This project would suit any trainee with an interest in surgery or anaesthetics. Doncaster and Bassetlaw is ideally suited to supporting intercalating students in their research, audit, and quality improvement. Students will receive orientation to the hospital and department, along with mentoring. Specific training will be provided in collecting data from the clinical environment and in the writing of clinical papers. Regular supervision meetings will be organised to guide the student through each stage of this research project. As part of the BSc, there are extensive opportunities for clinical experience in the surgical department.

Should decisions relating to elective surgery for diverticular disease be based on health related quality of life assessment?

Main Supervisor

Mr Tim Wilson (tim.wilson1@nhs.net)

Second Supervisor

Dr Daniel Ashmore (dlashmore1@sheffield.ac.uk)

Aim and Objectives

1. To determine the health related quality of life of patients following complicated and uncomplicated diverticulitis
2. To determine the health related quality of life of patients prior to undergoing surgery for diverticular disease
3. To determine whether there is any difference in the health related quality of life of these two groups

Research Methodology

A systematic review will be conducted to extract published QoL in the medical literature from patients with DD participating in clinical trials or observational studies. Data will be extracted from studies measuring QoL in unselected cohorts of patients following an episode of diverticulits. Separate data will be extracted from studies measuring QoL in patients undergoing surgery for DD. These two data sets will be analysed for patterns of change and compared to each other, as well as population normal data. Meta-analysis will be used to combined data where applicable.

Expected Outcome

This study is expected to improve our understanding of the QoL burden in patients with diverticular disease and may help to inform us how we can make more objective choices regarding the use of surgery for this condition. It is expected that the outcomes of the study will be presented to national conferences and may be suitable for publication if sufficient data was collected.

Type of Project

Qualitative Project/non-lab based - primarily using qualitative methods

Additional Training

This project would suit any trainee with an interest in surgery or anaesthetics. The project will be supervised from Doncaster, but will largely be library/online based. Specific training will be provided in systematic reviews, including development of a search strategy, data extraction and meta-analysis. Regular supervision meetings will be organised to guide the student through each stage of this research project. As part of the BSc, there are extensive opportunities for clinical experience in the surgical department.

Systematic review and service evaluation of transanal resection techniques for significant rectal neoplasms

Main Supervisor

Mr Athur Harikrishnan (a.harikrishnan@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Dr Panagiota Kitsanta (panagiota.kitsanta@nhs.net)

Other Supervisors

Mr Shwan Amin, Dr Rebecca Denoronha

Research question 

What is the most effective treatment option for significant rectal neoplasms?

Significant rectal neoplasms (Early rectal cancer and large benign polyps) have multiple treatment options depending on factors such as polyp characteristics, site of polyp, fitness of the patient and availability of expertise. The treatment options include endoscopic resection (EMR/ESD), transanal resection (TART) and minimally invasive surgery (TEMS/TEO). The project aims to identify if any specific characteristic will help to identify a favourable treatment option by analysing the published data on the efficacy of the interventions and long term outcomes.

Aim and Objectives

Significant rectal neoplasms include large benign and malignant lesions that require complex surgical techniques to treat. Transanal techniques like TEMS and TAMIS are well recognised treatment options. The aims of this project are 1. to perform a systematic review of the efficacy and long-term outcomes of transanal resection techniques in the treatment of significant rectal neoplasms published in literature, and 2. to review the outcomes of transanal techniques in the treatment of significant rectal neoplasms in the colorectal unit of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals

Research Methodology

Stage One: Learn methodology of conducting systematic review.

Stage Two: Conduct systematic review of the efficacy and outcomes of transanal techniques in the treatment of significant rectal neoplasms published in English literature. This will involve detailed literature search on the topic that is followed by data consolidation and analysis. The candidate is expected to write and submit the systematic review for publication to a peer-reviewed journal. This review will form the first part of the dissertation submitted for the BSc intercalated degree.

Stage Three: Learn methodology of conducting data collection and comparative analysis. The candidate will gain knowledge of basic and advanced statistical knowledge required for the project. Stage Four: The candidate will collect data related to transanal techniques used in the treatment of significant rectal neoplasms in the Sheffield colorectal unit under the guidance of the supervisors. This will involve retrospective and prospective data collection, data analysis, statistical computing and discussion of results. This exercise should generate at least one publication and several abstracts, posters and presentations in regional, national and international meetings. The core data analysis from this stage will contribute to the second part of the dissertation. It is expected that the stages mentioned above will merge to complement each other during the BSc project.

Expected Outcome

1. The project will generate at least two peer-reviewed publications as mentioned above. 2. The project will also yield several posters and presentations in regional, national and international meetings. 3. The project will enable the candidate to submit a dissertation to the university as a requirement for the BSc degree. 4. The candidate will gain knowledge of key academic assets that is required for any medical practitioner e.g., systematic review and clinical data analysis.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

1. The student will learn research and statistical methodology of conducting and writing a systematic review.

2. The student will be taught clinical and demographic data collection and analyses.

3. The student will learn about investigation and treatment of rectal neoplasms

Development of Standardised Guidelines in Thoracic Aortic Imaging

Main Supervisor

Dr Stephen Goode (stephen.goode3@nhs.net)

Second Supervisor

Dr Saima Ehsan (saima.ehsan@nhs.net)

Aim and Objectives

The aim of this project is to develop definitive guidelines for thoracic aortic imaging in patients with aneurysmal disease

Research Methodology

We will being using mixed qualitative and quantitative methodology. We will identify patients with long term follow MR angiographic imaging in 2 main cohorts:
1. Patients with ascending aortic aneurysmal disease
2. Patients with operated ascending aortic disease
We will then collate their imaging follow up parameters from MR angiographic thoracic aortic imaging measurements. As well as this demographic data, vascular risk factors, operations, short and long term complications will be recorded. The project will alos look at the impact of long-term imaging follow up.

Expected Outcome

This project will provide important long term data on thoracic aortic disease to improve patient safety and look at the suitability of current imaging practices. This project will help us to develop and publish national guidelines to help guide national imaging follow up.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Students will get training on image analysis for the project within the department from experienced radiologists.

Why gallbladder surgery become increasingly difficult after Covid-19 pandemic

Main Supervisor

Mr Abdulzahra Hussain (azahrahussain@yahoo.com, abdulzahra.hussain@nhs.net)

Second Supervisor

Mr N Samuel (nsamuel@nhs.net)

Aim and Objectives

To understand the causes of increasing difficulty of performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy after Covid-19 pandemic

Research Methodology

Design : comparative study , pro and retrospective data of patients who underwent lap.chole
Population: consecutive series of patients before and after covid.The data will include demographic features, comorbidities, previous surgery, short term complications, intra-opertaive findings of grade of difficulty,.The study will look into retrospective and prospective data of two arms.Running statistical tests and make the conclusions.

Expected Outcome

Difficult gallbladder surgery after Covid-19 is likely to result in more cases of bile leak, injuries, longer hospitalisation and increasing cost

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Students will have opportunity to conduct clinical research and will be exposed to methodology in clinical environment .They will have access to the theatre , clinics to see the operative details and follow up program,

Assessing surgical team familiarity and patient outcomes from surgery using team familiarity scores

Main Supervisor

Professor Marcus Cumberbatch (m.g.cumberbatch@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Professor James Catto (j.catto@sheffield.ac.uk)

Other Supervisors

Ibrahim Jubber

Aim and Objectives

Aims:
To review the use of robotics in renal and upper tract urothelial cancer surgery.
To review pain score differences between robotic, laparoscopic and open renal surgery, or part open renal surgery.
To review length of stay and length of catheterisation differences between robotic, laparoscopic and open renal surgery, or part open renal surgery.
To review patient satisfaction differences between robotic, laparoscopic and open renal surgery, or part open renal surgery.

Objectives:
Undertake a systematic review of robotic renal surgery.
Complete an observational, non-randomised study of all renal operations over 6 months.
Capture data on length of stay (LOS) and catheterisation durations using Lorenzo software.
Obtain VAS (visual analogue scores) questionnaire responses from post-operative patients.
Obtain EQ-5D questionnaire responses from post-operative patients.
Analyse data to compare differences in patient reported outcome measures and health costs differences.

Hypothesis/background:
Currently the European Association of Urologists considers robotic surgery to be non-inferior to open or laparoscopic surgery in radical nephrectomy or nephro-ureterectomy.
We hypothesis that oncological outcomes are equal and that pain scores/PREMS (patient reported experience measures)/length of stay/blood loss is less

Question:
Should the robotic approach be the standard of care for renal surgery required for upper tract urothelial cancer and renal cell cancer?

Research Methodology

Systematic literature review
Service evaluation of renal surgery in Sheffield
Delivery of data necessary to influence practice and inform clinical trials.
Data analysis of recruited case series and generation of new prospectively collected database.

Expected Outcome

Published report of the systematic review
Priority ranking of outcomes likely to result in wider uptake of robotic renal approaches
Generate a clear view of the health economics impact of a switch to greater robotic uptake

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Guidance in literature searching and training In systematic reviews
Help and guidance in report writing and ‘how to publish’
Training in data analysis (excel, prism, SPSS) Training in trial design and steps needed to implement research into clinical practice
Training in health economics evaluations.

An investigation into the predictors of outcome in patients presenting with acute aortic dissection

Main Supervisor

Dr Saima Ehsan (saima.ehsan@nhs.net)

Second Supervisor

Mr Govind Chetty (govind.chetty@nhs.net)

Other Supervisors

Dr Stephen Goode

Overarching Research Question

Are there any identifiable predictors of outcomes for patients presenting with acute aortic syndromes?

Aim and Objectives

The overall aim is to investigate the predictors of outcome in patients presenting with acute thoracic aortic dissection
The research component of the project is to look at the associations of various variable or a combination thereof; demographics, pre existing conditions, medication, type of dissection, clinical parameters, biochemical parameters, time of intervention that may exist with good outcomes favourable or otherwise.

Research Methodology

The student will be expected to carry out the following elements of the research project:
1) Literature review on acute aortic syndromes, focussing on thoracic aortic dissections
2) Retrospective data collection using trust resources : Review of all patients presenting to STH with the diagnosis of acute aortic syndrome focussing on the following
Demographic data, Co morbidities, Prescribed medications on admission, Initial clinical/biochemical/radiological assessment, Radiological classification Inpatient clinical journey , Discharge destination and outcomes at six months of FU
3) Student will be supported in data analysis work

Expected Outcome

Clinical Translation: Ability or otherwise, to identify patients presenting with acute aortic syndrome with focus on thoracic aortic dissection, and modify the variable/variables that may have an influence patient outcome

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Exposure to open and endovascular cardiac and vascular surgery to provide context to the research project. Initial training in radiological assessment.

Finite Element analysis of tissue trauma using different size incisions for minimally invasive surgery

Main Supervisor

Mr Sanjeev Madan (s.madan@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Professor Reza Saatchi (r.saatchi@shu.ac.uk)

Other Supervisors

Mr Srinivasan Balchandra

Aim and Objectives

The aim of the project is to show with FEA that incision size in surgery matters. Smaller incisions and Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) and percutaneous approaches would help patients recover quicker.

Research Methodology

BSc students will do computer modelling and FEA with an MSc research student from Sheffield Hallam university under the guidance of Prof Saatchi. Depending on these results we would do some experiments in anatomy lab at University of Sheffield to test different size incision approach for MIS.


Portals and incisions used for instruments can be as much as 12 to 20 mm. Using cannulas of 5 mm and above also can cause issues. The aim of our study is to find out the volume damage to tissues using different portal sizes viz. 2.5 mm, 5 mm, 10mm, 15 mm and 20 mm.

Expected Outcome

We would like to see positive effect of smaller and percutaneous approaches for surgery with this modelling. The bigger outcome would be to devise percutaneous surgical instruments for percutaneous surgery. Mr Balchandra is a renowned surgeon in Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals. He has experience in percutaneous techniques of laparoscopic surgery. Mr Madan has experience in arthroscopy and MIS major surgery.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

The students will be assisting in operating theatre and scrubbing whenever they can. They will attend clinics and ward rounds. They will get clinical experience and will be taught basic surgical techniques like suturing and closure of wounds in operation theatre. The students are flexible as and when they can attend and as much as they want to attend. There is no restrictions on their clinical experience.

Developing and using an app to enhance patient experience and control in head and neck cancer patients?

Main Supervisor

Mr Omar Mulla (omar.mulla1@nhs.net)

Second Supervisor

Mr Mark Watson (mark.watson11@nhs.net)

Aim and Objectives

Background to problem


• The pressure on frontline NHS services is increasing, consequently novel solutions and new ways of working are needed.
• In surgical outpatients we are seeing large numbers of patients who have had treated head and neck cancer attending for regular follow up.
• These patients will often only make contact with a healthcare professional on the allocated appointment time; in some instances this means recurrences are picked up late.
• Phase 1 of this project will be gaining the relevant content - facts, symptoms and details needed that will be used to create spine of any future app for patient self management.


Aims/Objectives
The aim of this study is to investigate patterns of follow up and symptoms post head and cancer to allow patients to take partial control of their symptoms.

Research Methodology

Both quantitative and qualitative methods will be required:


1. Performing a literature review on quality of life measures for head and neck cancer patients.
2. Attending clinics and patient focus groups to ascertain from patients and clinicians what they would like from a patient controlled app.
3. Obtaining clinician dependent information via mass mailing to head and neck surgeons/using head and neck cancer forums for online member surveys. 4. Combining the acquired data to decide content for any future app.
5. Sharing this information with clinicians and patients to obtain feedback.

Expected Outcome

It is expected the first year of intercalation would generate the potential for two clinical papers. The first paper being a systematic review on quality of life measures for head and cancer patients and second paper about patient perceptions and data needed for patients to actively participate in their follow up. This will likely need to be tested in a small cohort of people so may generate a third paper.
These have the potential for presentation at national conferences or publication in peer review journals. If the student’s work is accepted for presentation, then expenses will be available for conferences and travel fees. It is hoped that this work will contribute to the eventual quality improvement in surgical outpatient care.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

Doncaster and Bassetlaw is ideally suited to supporting intercalating students in their research. The hospital will pay for travel expenses from Sheffield and accommodation can be arranged is needed. Students will receive orientation to the hospital and department, along with mentoring. Specific training will be provided in conducting systematic reviews and training can also be arranged for writing clinical papers. Weekly supervision meetings will be organised to guide the student through each stage of this research project. Further optional clinical experience in the surgical department can be arranged for interested students.

Additional persons involved

Specialist head and neck nurses and ENT surgeons are very keen to work with individuals and invite them to head and neck focus groups to gauge patient compliance and help patients understand the purpose of the study.
Understanding bowel function related to haemorrhoids

Main Supervisor

Mr Matthew Lee (m.j.lee@sheffield.ac.uk)

Second Supervisor

Professor Steven Brown (steven.brown13@nhs.net)

Aim and Objectives

To describe patient defacatory function using a patient reported symptom score
To correlate the score with grade of piles and severity of haemorrhoid symptoms
To explore whether scores predict need for surgery

Research Methodology

This will take place in surgical outpatients and day case units at the northern general hospital. A sample of 60 patients presenting with haemorrhoids will be invited to complete questionnaires on defaecatory function and haemorrhoid severity. Data on haemorrhoid grade will also be captured. Treatments allocated by surgeons will be captured.

Expected Outcome

This pilot work will help us to identify if there is a group with high levels of straining who will end up with surgery, and potentially identify a group who can be managed with conservative measures alone. We expect this will lead to presentation and/or publication.

Type of Project

Clinical project - based in the clinical environment with patients/including service evaluation

Additional Training

You will need to complete good clinical practice research training online before starting the BSc.
We will provide training in recruiting strategies, data management, and statistical analysis. You will be welcome to attend research team meetings, theatre lists, and clinics to further your knowledge.

A world top-100 university

We're a world top-100 university renowned for the excellence, impact and distinctiveness of our research-led learning and teaching.