How clinical exposure and service patterns shape medical students’ understanding of plastic and reconstructive surgery: a multicentre study from conflict-affected Syria

Question How well do medical students in conflict-affected Syria understand the scope of plastic and reconstructive surgery, and what educational factors are associated with that understanding? Findings In this cross-sectional survey of 1,555 medical students at three Syrian medical schools, most correctly associated plastic surgery with aesthetic cases but underrecognized its reconstructive roles. Prior clinical exposure and targeted lectures were significantly associated with improved recognition in reconstructive and trauma-related scenarios. Meaning Clarifying the reconstructive scope of plastic surgery through structured teaching and supervised clinical exposure may enhance referral reasoning and strengthen the surgical workforce in conflict-affected health systems.