For practical preparation, especially for the viva and clinical parts of the exam, working through companion cases can be incredibly beneficial. Here’s how to find them:
Let us first clarify the terminology. The Intercollegiate FRCS in General Surgery is structured into several sections: For practical preparation, especially for the viva and
"Companion Cases" refer to a collection of mock viva scenarios designed to be used alongside a study partner. Unlike a textbook, which provides linear knowledge, companion cases simulate the exam's interactive nature. A typical entry looks like this: "Companion Cases" refer to a collection of mock
Case 14: Obstructed Hernia Examiner: "A 65-year-old man presents with a 2-day history of a painful, irreducible right inguinal lump. He is vomiting and has absolute constipation. Describe your initial management." Companion Prompt: "The patient has a history of atrial fibrillation on warfarin. His INR is 4.5. How does this change your plan?" Case 14: Obstructed Hernia Examiner: "A 65-year-old man
These cases are "companions" because they require two people: one plays the examiner (asking the questions and layering on complications), and the other plays the candidate (answering under time pressure).
Review the last 5 years of exam recall posts (available on websites like FRCSexam.org or SurgicalTutor). For each recalled case, write a one-sentence stem. For example: