DNB General Surgery FAQs

How to use this page: Topics are assigned to the paper in which they actually appeared in DNB General Surgery examinations (2011–2024). The DNB syllabus is a loose guide — questions frequently cross paper boundaries. Frequency counts are the author’s own analysis. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).

4 × 100

Theory (4 papers × 100 marks)

200 / 400

Theory pass mark (aggregate)

10 × 10

Short notes per paper

3 hrs

Per paper

150 / 300

Practical pass mark

8 marks

Grace marks only 192–199

Syllabus: Basic sciences applied to surgery · Principles of General Surgery · Perioperative care · Trauma and critical care · Research Methodology. In practice: Questions cross over heavily into clinical areas. Research/audit and trauma appear in almost every session.

RESEARCH, AUDIT & ETHICS20 sessions — highest yield topic in Paper I

Topic	Sessions asked
Surgical audit — definition, conduct, role in SSI reduction Most Repeated	Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2019, Dec 2013, Jun 2013, Undated B, + more
Levels of evidence & grades of recommendation	Dec 2023, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2015, Jun 2014, Undated B, + more
Study designs — RCT, cohort, case-control, meta-analysis, systematic review	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2018, + more
Sample size calculation & statistical concepts (p value, SD, CI, randomisation)	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Jun 2014, Dec 2014, Undated B
WHO surgical safety checklist — Sign-In, Time-Out, Sign-Out	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2018, Undated B
CONSORT statement; Research vs audit vs service evaluation	Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2015, Jun 2014, Undated C
Surgical ethics — informed consent, medicolegal implications	Dec 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2017, Dec 2013, Jun 2013, Undated B
Bias in clinical research; Lead-time and length bias	Dec 2022, Jun 2018, Dec 2015, Jun 2014, Jun 2013
Clavien–Dindo classification of postoperative complications	Undated C

WOUND HEALING & SURGICAL INFECTIONS16 sessions each

Topic	Sessions asked
Phases of wound healing & factors affecting Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Aug 2021, Dec 2018, Jun 2018, Jun 2014, Dec 2015
NPWT (negative pressure wound therapy) — mechanism & uses	Dec 2024, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Undated C
Keloid vs hypertrophic scar	Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Undated B
Surgical site infections — definition, risk factors, prevention	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Undated B, Undated C
Necrotising fasciitis / Fournier’s gangrene — etiopathogenesis, management	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Jun 2015, Dec 2013, Dec 2012, Undated B, Undated C
Antibiotic prophylaxis in surgery	Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Undated A, + more
Gas gangrene — bacteriology, clinical features, management	Jun 2018, Jun 2015, Jun 2012
Wound debridement principles	Dec 2020
CDC wound classification	Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2014, Undated C
Biofilm & chronic wounds; Non-healing wound evaluation	Undated C

TRAUMA & DAMAGE CONTROL16 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
ATLS — primary survey, secondary survey, FAST, extended FAST Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2012, Undated B, Undated C
Damage control surgery & resuscitation (DCR) — lethal triad, MTP	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Dec 2015, Undated A
Flail chest — pathophysiology & management	Dec 2024, Jun 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2013
Head injury — pathophysiology, GCS, raised ICP, extradural haematoma	Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2014, Jun 2013
Burns — classification, Lund & Browder, Parkland formula, management	Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2014, Dec 2015, Dec 2012
Pelvic fracture — classification, associated injuries, haemorrhage management	Jun 2020, Jun 2023, Jun 2014
Penetrating neck injury — surgical anatomy & management	Jun 2023
Pancreatic injury following blunt trauma	Jun 2019
Triage & disaster management	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2018, Dec 2012, Undated B
Trauma severity scores	Aug 2021, Dec 2019, Undated B
Early total care vs damage control surgery	Aug 2021

SHOCK, RESUSCITATION & CRITICAL CARE13 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Classification & management of shock (all types) Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2022, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Undated A, Undated B
Metabolic response to injury — Ebb & Flow phases, mediators, SIRS, MODS	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017
Surviving Sepsis Campaign bundles — fluids, vasopressors, antibiotics	Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2019, Dec 2018
ARDS — Berlin definition, pathophysiology, management	Dec 2020
Abdominal compartment syndrome — IAP measurement, grades, management	Dec 2023, Dec 2015
Massive blood transfusion — complications, coagulopathy management, MTP	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2020, Aug 2021, Jun 2022, Dec 2022, Jun 2019, Dec 2014, Undated B
Postoperative fever — causes and management	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018
Balanced crystalloids vs normal saline — hyperchloraemic acidosis	Jun 2024
DVT prophylaxis in surgical patients	Jun 2024, Jun 2018, Dec 2013
ICU scoring systems	Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Undated B

NUTRITION & METABOLISM9 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Enteral vs parenteral nutrition — indications, routes, complications Most Repeated	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Dec 2014, Undated C
MUST tool & nutritional assessment of surgical patient	Aug 2021, Dec 2022, Undated C
Short bowel syndrome — nutritional management	Jun 2019, Dec 2014
Nutritional consequences of bariatric surgery	Dec 2018, Jun 2024
Calorie & protein requirements in postoperative period	Jun 2018
Refeeding syndrome	Undated C

SURGICAL ONCOLOGY BASICS15 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Tumour markers — types, role in malignancy management Most Repeated	Jun 2022, Dec 2018, Dec 2015, Jun 2013, Undated C
Cancer screening — principles, ideal attributes, lead-time & length bias	Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2015, Undated C
Oncology principles — chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy	Dec 2024, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2018
PET-CT scan — principles, role in surgical oncology	Dec 2019, Undated C
Gompertzian growth; RECIST criteria	Aug 2021, Dec 2017, Undated C
MEN syndromes; RET proto-oncogene	Dec 2018, Jun 2015, Dec 2014
BRCA genes & breast cancer susceptibility	Dec 2018
Cancer cachexia	Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2018

FLUIDS, ELECTROLYTES & ACID-BASE9 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
IV fluids — types, indications, complications of prolonged use	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2014, Dec 2013, Dec 2019
Hyperkalaemia — classification & management	Dec 2024, Jun 2022
Metabolic acidosis types; lactic acidaemia	Jun 2024, Jun 2020, Jun 2018
ABG analysis & interpretation	Jun 2024, Jun 2018
Electrolyte disturbances in gastric outlet obstruction	Dec 2022, Dec 2018, Dec 2013
DIC — pathophysiology & management	Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Dec 2018

SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, ENERGY & MAS BASICS11 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Electrosurgery — principles, types, complications Most Repeated	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2018, Dec 2015, Dec 2013, Undated C
Surgical staplers — types, uses in GI surgery	Jun 2024, Jun 2022
Suture classification & properties	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Dec 2022, Jun 2018, Dec 2018, Jun 2014, Dec 2013, Dec 2015, Undated C
Laparoscopic surgery — principles, ergonomics, pneumoperitoneum	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2020, Dec 2020, Dec 2018, Jun 2017, Undated A, Undated C
Advanced bipolar devices & energy sources	Dec 2018, Dec 2015
Sterilisation methods	Jun 2020, Undated A
Indocyanine green (ICG) dye uses	Jun 2022
AI in surgery; robotic surgery advantages	Aug 2021, Dec 2018
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy	Undated A
Radiation safety for surgeons	Undated B

PERIOPERATIVE CARE & ANAESTHESIA7 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Day care surgery — selection criteria, discharge criteria	Jun 2022, Dec 2020, Dec 2015, Jun 2014, Undated A
Pain management — WHO ladder, patient-controlled analgesia, regional anaesthesia	Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Undated A
Thromboprophylaxis — indications, management	Jun 2017, Jun 2024
ERAS — components, implementation, barriers	Dec 2024, Dec 2018, Dec 2015
Postoperative respiratory complications	Dec 2020
High dependency unit scoring	Dec 2019, Jun 2018

SURGICAL ANATOMY (APPLIED — MISCELLANEOUS)

Topic	Sessions asked
Abdominal wall anatomy & ventral hernia relevance	Jun 2020
Subphrenic spaces anatomy	Dec 2015, Undated C
Oesophageal motility physiology & achalasia	Jun 2020
Pelvic floor muscles & nerves — relevance to LAR for rectal Ca	Jun 2019
Surgical anatomy of thyroid gland	Dec 2024
Liver anatomy — Couinaud classification	Dec 2019
Radionuclide imaging principles & applications	Jun 2020
MRI in surgical practice	Dec 2023
Interventional radiology in surgical diseases	Dec 2019
Parasitology — Ascaris, Echinococcus, Taenia	Dec 2023, Jun 2013, Dec 2023
Abdominal tuberculosis — classification & management	Dec 2023, Jun 2020, Jun 2015
Typhoid ileal perforation	Dec 2023

Important: Paper I also occasionally includes clinical topics that technically belong to other papers. This is normal for DNB — the exam board does not rigidly enforce topic separation. In Jun 2013 (Dec 2011), head & neck topics (oral Ca, parotid, basal cell Ca) appeared in Paper I. In Jun 2013 Paper I: lymphoedema, Buerger’s disease, and venous ulcer also appeared. Be prepared for crossover.

Syllabus: Elective Orthopaedics · Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue / Soft Tissue · Head and Neck · Breast and Endocrine. In practice: Head & Neck appears in every single session (23 appearances). Thyroid/endocrine is equally high yield. Orthopaedics questions appear consistently — unique to DNB, not in MS exams.

HEAD & NECK SURGERY23 sessions — appears in EVERY Paper II

Topic	Sessions asked
Superficial parotidectomy — steps, facial nerve identification, why enucleation contraindicated Most Repeated	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2015, Jun 2014, Dec 2012
Neck dissection — radical vs modified, classification of levels, selective dissections	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Dec 2014, Dec 2012, Undated A, Undated B
Head injury — pathophysiology, GCS, raised ICP, extradural haematoma, decompressive craniectomy	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Dec 2019, Dec 2015
Brain stem death — criteria, apnea test, organ donation	Jun 2023, Dec 2024
Thyroglossal cyst — Sistrunk procedure, embryology	Dec 2024, Dec 2019, Jun 2015, Dec 2014
Branchial cyst — embryology, surgical management	Jun 2024, Dec 2019, Jun 2014, Dec 2013, Undated C
Cystic hygroma	Dec 2024, Dec 2014, Undated C
Submandibular gland — anatomy, sialadenitis management, calculus disease	Jun 2024, Dec 2014, Jun 2012, Dec 2015, Undated C
Ludwig’s angina — presentation & management	Jun 2023, Dec 2022
Tracheostomy — types, indications, complications	Jun 2017, Dec 2014, Jun 2013
Carotid body tumour / chemodectoma	Dec 2019, Dec 2013, Jun 2015
Salivary gland tumours — classification, mucoepidermoid management	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018
Pharyngeal pouch / Zenker’s diverticulum	Dec 2022, Jun 2019
Oral cavity cancer — premalignant lesions, staging, supra-omohyoid dissection	Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2011
Cervical lymphadenopathy — differential, tubercular, unknown primary	Jun 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2020
Ranula / plunging ranula	Jun 2019, Jun 2014, Undated C
Cleft lip — LAHSHAL, principles of repair, timing	Dec 2024, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Jun 2014, Dec 2013, Jun 2013, Undated C
Thymoma & myasthenia gravis management	Dec 2024
Thoracic outlet syndrome	Dec 2024
Collar stud abscess	Dec 2024, Jun 2015
Psoas abscess	Jun 2019, Dec 2014

THYROID, PARATHYROID & ENDOCRINE19 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Total thyroidectomy — steps, complications (RLN, hypocalcaemia) Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Dec 2013
Solitary thyroid nodule — Bethesda system, TIRADS, diagnostic algorithm	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Undated B
Thyrotoxicosis / Graves’ disease — management, preoperative preparation	Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2013
Hyperparathyroidism — classification, clinical features, management	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Dec 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2014, Undated B
Thyroid cancer — differentiated, medullary, staging, central node dissection	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Jun 2012, Undated B
Adrenal incidentaloma — definition, management	Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2020, Jun 2017, Jun 2015, Undated B
Pheochromocytoma — investigation, preop prep, intraop management	Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Dec 2014, Dec 2012, Undated A
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours — insulinoma, gastrinoma, Zollinger-Ellison	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2019, Jun 2018
Adrenalectomy — surgical anatomy, indications, laparoscopic technique	Jun 2020, Jun 2015, Undated B
Post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia — etiopathogenesis & management	Jun 2023, Dec 2023
MEN syndromes — classification, components, surgical implications	Jun 2015, Dec 2018, Undated B
Von Hippel-Lindau disease; Neuroblastoma	Dec 2023, Jun 2024

BREAST SURGERY18 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Breast cancer management — cT2N1M0, locally advanced, inflammatory, early Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Dec 2013, Jun 2013, Undated A, Undated B
BCS — indications, contraindications, oncoplastic surgery	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2022, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Dec 2013, Dec 2012, Undated A
Sentinel lymph node biopsy — current status, ICG-guided, ACOSOG Z0011	Jun 2022, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Undated B
Nipple discharge — classification, diagnosis, surgical management	Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2014
Benign breast disease — ANDI classification, fibroadenoma, phyllodes	Dec 2023, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2022, Dec 2019, Undated A, Undated B
Breast cancer staging — TNM, molecular subtypes, prognostic factors	Jun 2024, Jun 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Undated B
Radiotherapy indications in breast cancer; HER2+ tumour management	Jun 2024, Dec 2022
Genetic testing (BRCA1/2), risk management in mutation carriers	Dec 2022
Hormonal therapy; Neoadjuvant chemotherapy	Dec 2023, Dec 2015, Jun 2022
BIRADS classification	Jun 2024, Aug 2021
Reconstruction after mastectomy — options, DIEP flap	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2014
Image-guided biopsy techniques; PET scan in breast Ca	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Jun 2014, Undated A
Gynaecomastia — causes, management	Jun 2012, Dec 2014, Undated C

SKIN, SOFT TISSUE & PLASTIC SURGERY19 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Malignant melanoma — classification, staging (Clark/Breslow), management Most Repeated	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Dec 2014
Basal cell carcinoma — types, management	Dec 2024, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Dec 2012, Undated C
Squamous cell carcinoma skin — premalignant lesions, management	Jun 2024, Jun 2020, Dec 2013, Undated C
Premalignant lesions of skin — leukoplakia, Bowen’s, etc.	Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Dec 2015
Skin grafts — partial vs full thickness, principles, indications	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Dec 2013
Skin flaps — classification, axial flaps, local, musculocutaneous, DIEP	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2014, Dec 2013, Undated B, Undated C
Hidradenitis suppurativa — stages, management	Dec 2024, Jun 2022, Jun 2015, Undated C
Burns — resuscitation, wound care, reconstruction	Jun 2023, Aug 2021, Undated C
Marjolin’s ulcer; Lupus vulgaris	Jun 2024, Jun 2023
Decubitus ulcers — grading, prevention, treatment	Jun 2019, Undated A, Undated C
Fournier’s gangrene / Synergistic gangrene	Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Jun 2013
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans	Dec 2024, Jun 2024
Soft tissue sarcomas; Kaposi’s sarcoma	Dec 2022
Neck & H&N reconstruction — principles, flaps after hemimandibulectomy	Jun 2020, Jun 2014
VAAC (vacuum assisted closure) / wound care advances	Aug 2021, Jun 2022, Jun 2019
Ingrown toenail; Paronychia	Jun 2020, Aug 2021, Dec 2014
Mycetoma; Leprosy cutaneous manifestations	Jun 2023, Undated C
Pilonidal sinus — management; recurring	Jun 2012, Jun 2015, Jun 2014

ELECTIVE ORTHOPAEDICS13 sessions — unique to DNB, not in MS exams

DNB-specific: Elective orthopaedics is NOT in MS exams. Plan at least 2–3 short notes per Paper II from this section.

Topic	Sessions asked
Compartment syndrome — pathophysiology, fasciotomy, escharotomy, crush syndrome Most Repeated	Jun 2023, Jun 2020, Jun 2014, Undated C
Bone tumours — Ewing’s sarcoma (rib), osteochondroma, osteomyelitis of ribs	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2022, Jun 2018
Osteomyelitis — acute/chronic, Brodie’s abscess, management	Dec 2020, Jun 2018, Undated B
Fractures — long bone techniques, advantages & disadvantages	Dec 2023, Jun 2024
Achilles tendon rupture; Fracture neck femur	Dec 2023
Non-union of fracture — causes	Jun 2023, Aug 2021
Pathological fracture — causes, management (esp. carcinoma breast)	Dec 2022
Paraplegia following spinal injury — diagnosis & management	Dec 2022
Septic arthritis management	Undated C
AO classification & intra-articular fractures	Jun 2014
Crush syndrome — pathophysiology, prevention of compartment syndrome	Jun 2014, Undated C
Carpal tunnel syndrome; Dupuytren’s contracture	Jun 2023, Jun 2019, Aug 2021, Undated A
Club foot management in 6-year-old	Jun 2024
Dinner fork deformity; Malunion	Dec 2024, Jun 2024
Brachial plexus injury	Jun 2023, Undated C
Metastatic bone disease — lumbar vertebrae (prostate Ca)	Jun 2018, Undated C
Soft tissue sarcomas of extremity	Dec 2022
Amputations — lower limb, BKA, types, indications	Undated B
Hand infections; Parona’s space; Bell’s palsy; Warthin’s tumour	Jun 2017, Undated B

VASCULAR & CARDIOTHORACIC (crossover from Paper III)

Topic	Sessions asked
VATS — indications, thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy	Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2024
Pleural infection, chronic empyema, decortication	Jun 2019
AAA management	Jun 2020
Acute limb ischaemia management	Jun 2020

Syllabus: Vascular Surgery · Abdominal Surgery. In practice: This is the highest-yield operative paper. HPB (18 sessions), Vascular (17 sessions), Hernia (16 sessions), and Colorectal (16 sessions) are equally weighted. Varicose veins, GERD, obstructive jaundice, and inguinal hernia are the single most repeated topics.

VASCULAR SURGERY17 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Varicose veins — CEAP, venous anatomy, EVLT, surgical options, venous ulcer Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Dec 2014, Jun 2014, Jun 2013
Acute mesenteric ischaemia — types, diagnosis, operative management	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2022
Peripheral arterial disease / CLI — claudication, ABI, Buerger’s, revascularisation	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2015, Dec 2014
DVT — pathology, Virchow’s triad, complications, treatment, prophylaxis	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2019, Jun 2013
AAA — risk factors, EVAR vs open repair, ruptured AAA	Jun 2022, Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2019
Lymphoedema — classification, filariasis, management	Dec 2024, Jun 2020, Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2022, Jun 2014
Diabetic foot — pathophysiology, debridement, revascularisation	Dec 2022, Dec 2013
AV fistula — clinical features, investigation, principles	Dec 2022, Jun 2017
Acute embolic occlusion — embolectomy, Fogarty catheter	Dec 2023, Dec 2017
Lumbar sympathectomy — anatomy, indications, technique	Jun 2022
Vascular injuries of extremities — principles of arterial repair	Jun 2020, Dec 2019
Raynaud’s disease — investigations & treatment	Dec 2014
Thrombophlebitis; Dissecting aortic aneurysm	Jun 2023
Capillary haemangiomas; Congenital vascular lesions	Jun 2019, Jun 2020
Trauma — blunt abdominal trauma, splenic injury, DCS	Dec 2020, Jun 2022, Jun 2015

HPB SURGERY18 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Obstructive jaundice — causes, LFT pattern, MRCP/ERCP, Courvoisier law, preop prep Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Dec 2013, Dec 2011
Whipple’s / PPPD — indications, essential steps, reconstruction, complications	Dec 2024, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2015, Dec 2013
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy — critical view of safety, difficult LC, bail-out	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Dec 2023
CBD injury — Strasberg classification, management, Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy	Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Jun 2015
Gallbladder carcinoma — TNM, T-stage management, incidental GBC after LC	Jun 2023, Jun 2020, Jun 2017, Dec 2024
Acute pancreatitis — BISAP, CTSI/Balthazar, step-up approach, necrosectomy	Dec 2024, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Dec 2020, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2015
Chronic pancreatitis — surgical options (Puestow, Frey, Beger)	Jun 2022, Jun 2017
Pancreatic pseudocyst — cystogastrostomy, cystojejunostomy, endoscopic drainage	Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2017
Hydatid cyst liver — surgery, scolicidal agents, cyst-biliary communication	Jun 2024, Dec 2022, Jun 2017
Choledochal cyst — classification, excision, biliary reconstruction	Jun 2024, Jun 2019, Jun 2013
Choledocholithiasis — ERCP, laparoscopic CBD exploration	Aug 2021, Dec 2019, Dec 2015
HCC — BCLC staging, resection vs ablation vs transplant	Dec 2020
Colorectal liver metastases — synchronous vs metachronous	Jun 2022
Liver resections — types, Pringle manoeuvre, haemostasis, liver trauma	Jun 2022, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Jun 2015
Amoebic liver abscess — pathology, management	Jun 2018, Dec 2014
Splenectomy — indications, technique, OPSI, complications	Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2015, Dec 2014
Mirizzi’s syndrome; Portal hypertension; Hepatic adenoma	Jun 2019, Dec 2017, Jun 2017
Carcinoid tumour; Endocrine pancreas (gastrinoma in Paper III context)	Jun 2024, Dec 2017

HERNIA & ABDOMINAL WALL16 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Inguinal hernia — anatomy, Lichtenstein, TAPP, TEP, sliding, obstructed/strangulated Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Aug 2021, Dec 2017, Jun 2018, Jun 2015, Dec 2014, Dec 2013
Ventral/incisional hernia — EHS classification, component separation, loss of domain	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2022, Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Undated A
Myopectineal orifice of Fruchaud — surgical anatomy	Jun 2024, Dec 2024
Mesh classification — types, composite mesh, biological mesh	Jun 2024, Jun 2020
Femoral hernia — anatomy, Lockwood/McEvedy/Lotheisen repairs	Jun 2022, Dec 2013
Diaphragmatic hernia — traumatic, Bochdalek, Morgagni	Jun 2020, Jun 2024, Jun 2013
Internal hernias; Umbilical hernia adults	Dec 2019, Jun 2018
Peritoneal adhesions — pathophysiology, prevention, management	Jun 2014, Jun 2020
Abdominal wall repair methods	Dec 2019
ERAS in colorectal and HPB surgery	Dec 2024

GI SURGERY — UPPER (OESOPHAGUS, STOMACH, SMALL BOWEL)14 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
GERD — investigation, indications for surgery, fundoplication, LINX, TIF, Stretta Most Repeated	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2017, Dec 2013
Achalasia cardia — Heller’s myotomy, POEM, comparison	Jun 2024, Aug 2021, Jun 2018, Dec 2013
Carcinoma oesophagus — staging, transhiatal oesophagectomy, Ivor Lewis, conduit comparison	Dec 2022, Jun 2020, Jun 2017, Dec 2015
Barrett’s oesophagus management	Dec 2023, Dec 2017
Perforated duodenal ulcer — Graham’s patch, omental plug, laparoscopic approach	Jun 2024
Carcinoma stomach — staging, D2 gastrectomy, lymph node stations, reconstruction	Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Dec 2014
Upper GI bleeding — variceal and non-variceal, resuscitation	Jun 2022, Jun 2017, Dec 2014
Bariatric surgery — options, metabolic basis, complications	Jun 2018, Aug 2021, Jun 2014
Gastric GIST; Carcinoid tumour; Short bowel syndrome	Jun 2024, Jun 2019, Dec 2015
Enterocutaneous fistula — SNAP approach, classification	Jun 2023
Dumping syndrome; Gastric outlet obstruction	Dec 2017, Dec 2019
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome	Aug 2021, Dec 2024
Intestinal obstruction — adhesive, closed loop, LBO	Dec 2024, Jun 2019

COLORECTAL & ANORECTAL16 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Total mesorectal excision — planes, nerve preservation, TaTME Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Aug 2021, Jun 2023
Colorectal cancer — TNM, caecal Ca, work-up, laparoscopic, adjuvant	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Dec 2023
Rectal prolapse — types, Delorme, Altemeier, Ripstein operations	Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2015
Fistula-in-ano — Parks classification, LIFT, VAAFT, seton, advancement flap	Aug 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018
Haemorrhoids — Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy, stapled haemorrhoidopexy	Jun 2020, Dec 2014
Pilonidal sinus — rhomboid flap, Bascom, pit-picking	Jun 2020, Jun 2014
Ulcerative colitis — clinical features, surgical treatment, pouch	Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2022, Jun 2015
FAP — clinical features, screening, management	Jun 2022, Jun 2019
Sigmoid volvulus — endoscopic vs surgical management	Aug 2021, Jun 2022, Jun 2017
Carcinoma anal canal — etiology, diagnosis, management	Dec 2023
Anorectal malformations — classification, management	Jun 2023
Anastomotic leak; Wound dehiscence; Colonic anastomotic leak	Jun 2023, Dec 2013
Intestinal tuberculosis — types, management	Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2017
Colorectal screening methods; Abdominal tuberculosis	Dec 2023, Dec 2015, Dec 2013
HIPEC — principles, indications	Dec 2022

PAEDIATRIC SURGERY (crossover from Paper IV)6 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Intussusception — ileo-ileal management in 7-month-old	Dec 2024, Dec 2022
Duodenal atresia — double bubble sign, management	Dec 2024
Malrotation & midgut volvulus	Aug 2021, Jun 2013
Hirschsprung’s disease	Jun 2018
Upper GI obstruction in newborns	Jun 2013

Syllabus: Genitourinary & other subspecialties · Transplantation · Recent Advances. In practice: Paper IV is the most diverse paper. Urology dominates (20 sessions), but neurosurgery (12), paediatric surgery (12), cardiothoracic (11), bariatric (9), and hernia recent advances (8) all appear regularly. Recent advances technology questions also appear every session.

UROLOGY20 sessions — highest yield in Paper IV

Topic	Sessions asked
Renal transplantation — full work-up, rejection types, triple immunosuppression, DCD Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2014
Undescended testis — embryology, consequences, orchidopexy timing, adult UDT	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2014, Dec 2013
Hydronephrosis / PUJ obstruction — causes, radioisotope scan, pyeloplasty	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2014, Jun 2013
Prostate — BPH management (medical/surgical/newer MIS) + carcinoma prostate staging & management	Jun 2024, Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Dec 2014
Urinary stones — types, ESWL, RIRS, PCNL, calculus anuria, VUJ stone	Jun 2024, Dec 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2014, Jun 2014, Dec 2013
Bladder carcinoma — NMIBC vs MIBC, radical cystectomy, urinary diversion	Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Jun 2021, Jun 2020, Jun 2018
Carcinoma penis — staging, premalignant lesions, inguinal node management	Jun 2021, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Jun 2014
Hydrocele & acute scrotum — classification, primary vs secondary, differential	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Jun 2021, Jun 2018, Dec 2017
Testicular torsion — etiology, diagnosis, salvage vs orchidectomy	Jun 2021, Dec 2023, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2014, Dec 2013
RCC — staging, radical nephrectomy, IVC thrombus management	Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2017, Jun 2015
Kidney anomalies — horseshoe kidney, ADPKD, renal TB	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2019, Dec 2017, Dec 2013
Urethral stricture / injury — etiology, investigations, urethroplasty	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2015, Dec 2013
Testicular tumours — classification, staging, seminoma vs NSGCT, RPLND	Jun 2021, Dec 2023, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2014
Urinary diversion — ileal conduit, ureteroileostomy, metabolic complications	Jun 2024, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2014, Dec 2013
Neurogenic bladder; LUTS; Urodynamics	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2020, Dec 2013
Varicocele; Vasectomy; Paediatric urology (posterior urethral valves, bladder exstrophy)	Dec 2017, Dec 2013, Jun 2021
Renal trauma — classification, management	Dec 2015
Renal hypertension	Jun 2013

TRANSPLANTATION17 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Renal transplantation — indications, contraindications, perioperative management Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2014
Types of graft rejection — hyperacute, acute, chronic; management	Dec 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2021, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2014
Immunosuppressive agents — triple immunosuppression, cyclosporine, tacrolimus	Dec 2024, Jun 2022, Dec 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Jun 2014
Liver transplantation — indications, King’s/Milan criteria, living donor, postop care	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2023, Jun 2022, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Jun 2015
Brain stem death — criteria, testing, organ donation	Dec 2024, Jun 2022, Dec 2013
Warm & cold ischaemia time; DCD (donation after circulatory death)	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022
HLA antigens; Immunological basis of allograft rejection	Dec 2022, Jun 2014
Graft vs Host Disease (GVHD)	Jun 2024
Pancreas transplant; Small bowel / intestinal transplant	Dec 2019, Jun 2019, Dec 2014

RECENT ADVANCES & TECHNOLOGY17 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Robotic surgery — principles, 3D vision, haptics, advantages, disadvantages, vs laparoscopy Most Repeated	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017, Dec 2015, Jun 2015, Jun 2014, Aug 2021, Dec 2013
ICG / fluorescence surgery — biliary, perfusion, SLNB, oncological use	Jun 2024, Dec 2024, Jun 2021, Jun 2022
AI in surgery; Computer-aided surgery	Jun 2024
Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) — principle, GI & ENT oncology	Jun 2024, Jun 2021
Ventral hernia recent advances — eTEP, component separation, biological mesh	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Jun 2019
Fistula-in-ano advances — VAAFT, EPSiT, recent management	Jun 2022, Dec 2020
Rectal cancer MIS — TaTME, TAMIS, minimally invasive options	Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Jun 2019, Jun 2018
LASER surgery — principles, types, applications (BPH, bladder outlet)	Jun 2022, Jun 2015
Energy devices — electrosurgery principles, cutting & coagulation	Jun 2020, Jun 2014
Targeted therapy — HER2, VEGF, EGFR inhibitors, checkpoint inhibitors	Jun 2015, Jun 2022
Newer meshes & biological meshes in hernia surgery	Dec 2020, Jun 2019
Drug delivery systems for cancer	Dec 2020
Topical haemostatic agents	Jun 2023
ERCP advances; RFA for thyroid nodules	Dec 2024
Imaging systems in laparoscopy; Intraperitoneal adhesion prevention	Jun 2021, Jun 2020
Alternatives to sutures for skin closure	Jun 2022, Jun 2021
HIPEC — what is it, indications, complications	Jun 2017
POEM for achalasia	Jun 2024
Microvascular surgery role in current practice	Dec 2024
Endoscopic resection for early gastric carcinoma	Dec 2024
Radiofrequency ablation — liver metastases, solid organs	Jun 2023
EUS — indications, role in GI and abdominal pathologies	Jun 2019

PAEDIATRIC SURGERY12 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Malrotation — embryological principles, presentation, management (Ladd’s)	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2020, Jun 2013
Cleft lip — LAHSHAL classification, principles of surgery	Jun 2023
Posterior urethral valves; Bladder exstrophy	Jun 2023, Dec 2013, Jun 2021
Intussusception — infant management	Dec 2022
IHPS (infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis)	Jun 2021, Jun 2019
Tracheo-oesophageal fistula classification	Jun 2024
Hydrocephalus — classification, clinical features, management	Jun 2019, Dec 2017, Jun 2022
Spina bifida; Neural tube defects; Neural tube management	Dec 2017, Jun 2017
Extradural haematoma in child; GCS paediatric	Jun 2015
Congenital cystic diseases of kidney; Horseshoe kidney embryology	Dec 2019
Anorectal malformations; ARM Peña procedure	Jun 2023
Upper GI obstruction newborns (duodenal atresia, malrotation)	Dec 2024

NEUROSURGERY & CARDIOTHORACIC12 + 11 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Head injury — pathophysiology, GCS, raised ICP, decompressive craniectomy Neurosurgery	Dec 2024, Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2020, Dec 2019, Dec 2017, Jun 2017, Jun 2015, Jun 2013
Chronic subdural haematoma; Extradural haematoma	Dec 2022, Jun 2015
Raised ICP management; Stereotactic surgery	Dec 2020
Brain tumour classification; Neural tube defects	Dec 2017
Cardiopulmonary bypass — indications; Patent ductus arteriosus management Cardiothoracic	Jun 2024, Dec 2023, Jun 2020, Dec 2017, Jun 2017
Bronchopleural fistula — risk factors, diagnosis, management	Dec 2022
Recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax management	Jun 2024
Chylothorax — causes, diagnosis, management	Dec 2015, Jun 2017
Decortication — indications, complications	Jun 2017
VATS — indications	Jun 2020
Lung cancer histological classification	Dec 2017
Surgical pleural infection management	Dec 2023

BARIATRIC SURGERY9 sessions

Topic	Sessions asked
Bariatric procedures — sleeve, bypass, band; Metabolic basis; Selection criteria; Complications	Jun 2024, Jun 2023, Dec 2022, Jun 2022, Jun 2021, Dec 2019, Jun 2019, Jun 2018, Dec 2017
Metabolic surgery — physiological basis, risks	Dec 2017
Nutritional consequences of weight loss surgery	Jun 2020
BPH newer minimally invasive procedures	Jun 2021

MISCELLANEOUS PAPER IV TOPICS

Topic	Sessions asked
Venous drainage of lower limb; Surgical anatomy of peritoneum	Jun 2013
Stapler types & uses in surgery	Jun 2014, Dec 2014
WHO surgical safety checklist	Jun 2020, Dec 2024
DVT prophylaxis for major surgical procedures	Dec 2024
Universal precautions & HIV PEP	Jun 2013
Short bowel syndrome & intestinal transplantation	Jun 2020
Pressure sores — sites, staging, management	Jun 2013
Postoperative ileus; Intraperitoneal adhesions	Jun 2013, Jun 2020
Regional anaesthesia — epidural complications	Dec 2013
Haematological topics — blood components, clinical use	Jun 2014
Genomic studies in medullary Ca thyroid; RECIST	Dec 2022
Retained surgical sponge — prevention & management	Jun 2023
Cancer screening; Principles of cancer	Jun 2020

Topics ranked by total session appearances across all four papers. If a topic appears in the top 30 here, make it fully exam-ready before the exam.

#	Topic	Paper	Sessions
1	Research, Audit & Ethics (includes statistical concepts, WHO checklist, informed consent) 20 sessions	I	20+
2	Neck dissection — radical vs modified, levels I–VI, complications 15 sessions	II	15
3	Renal transplantation — full work-up, rejection, immunosuppression 14 sessions	IV	14
4	Wound healing phases & factors affecting healing 13 sessions	I	13
5	Shock — classification, pathophysiology, management 13 sessions	I	13
6	Total thyroidectomy — steps & complications (RLN, hypocalcaemia) 13 sessions	II	13
7	Superficial parotidectomy — steps & facial nerve identification 12 sessions	II	12
8	Varicose veins — CEAP, EVLT, surgical treatment, venous ulcer 12 sessions	III	12+
9	Trauma & Damage Control Surgery — ATLS, DCS, lethal triad	I	12+
10	Pheochromocytoma — investigation, preoperative prep, intraoperative management	II	12
11	Robotic surgery — principles, advantages, disadvantages, vs laparoscopy	IV	12
12	Surgical site infections — definition, risk factors, prevention	I	11
13	Obstructive jaundice — causes, MRCP/ERCP, Courvoisier law, preop prep	III	12
14	Hyperparathyroidism — classification, diagnosis, management	II	13
15	Breast cancer management — staging, BCS, oncoplastic surgery, MDT	II	16
16	Urology — prostate (BPH + carcinoma)	IV	11
17	Solitary thyroid nodule — Bethesda system, diagnostic algorithm	II	10
18	Urinary stones — ESWL, RIRS, PCNL, calculus anuria	IV	12
19	Necrotising fasciitis / Fournier’s gangrene	I / II	11
20	Laparoscopic cholecystectomy — critical view of safety, bail-out, difficult LC	III	9
21	Head injury — pathophysiology, GCS, raised ICP, extradural haematoma	II / IV	12
22	Undescended testis — embryology, consequences, orchidopexy	IV	8
23	Compartment syndrome — fasciotomy, escharotomy, crush syndrome	II	8
24	GERD — indications for surgery, fundoplication, newer techniques	III	9
25	Whipple’s operation — steps, reconstruction, complications	III	8
26	Inguinal hernia — anatomy, Lichtenstein, TAPP, TEP, strangulated	III	9
27	Acute pancreatitis — BISAP, CTSI, step-up approach, necrosectomy	III	8
28	Malrotation / intussusception — paediatric	III / IV	8
29	Graft rejection types & immunosuppressive agents	IV	10
30	Peripheral arterial disease / CLI — claudication, revascularisation	III	9
31	CBD injury — Strasberg classification, Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy	III	8
32	Hydronephrosis / PUJ obstruction — causes, pyeloplasty	IV	7
33	Electrosurgery — principles, types, complications	I	9
34	Skin flaps — classification, principles, head & neck reconstruction	II	10
35	Thyroid cancer — differentiated, medullary, central node dissection	II	10
36	Bladder carcinoma — NMIBC vs MIBC, radical cystectomy, diversion	IV	7
37	DVT — pathology, treatment, prophylaxis	I / III	9
38	Suture classification & properties	I	10
39	Liver transplantation — King’s/Milan criteria, living donor	IV	8
40	Colorectal cancer — staging, TME, laparoscopic surgery	III	8
41	Sentinel lymph node biopsy — current status in breast & melanoma	II	7
42	Gallbladder carcinoma — TNM, incidental GBC, radical resection	III	7
43	Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours — insulinoma, gastrinoma	II / III	9
44	Ventral hernia — EHS classification, eTEP, component separation, loss of domain	III / IV	9
45	Bariatric surgery — selection, procedures, complications	III / IV	9
46	Malignant melanoma — classification, staging, management	II	8
47	Laparoscopy basics — pneumoperitoneum, ergonomics, port placement	I	12
48	Carcinoma penis — staging, inguinal node management	IV	6
49	Burns — classification, resuscitation, Parkland formula	I / II	8
50	ICG fluorescence — biliary anatomy, perfusion, SLNB, oncological use	IV	7

DNB General Surgery — Frequently Asked Questions