Table 1 Six consecutively linked stages of underlying methodological framework

 1. Identify research question

Studies relevant to research question; broad search strategy concerning assessment and gynaecologic surgery

 2. Identify relevant studies

Information specialist assisted in the design and execution of a sensitive search strategy to include all relevant studies; electronic search of databases and reference lists; manual search of key journals.

 3. Study selection

Broad inclusion criteria but studies performed in simulation settings or surgeries performed on animals were omitted, as the goal was assessment of gynaecologic surgery in a clinical setting.

 4. Chart data

Overview noted author, assessment tool, study design, observation method and domains assessed during gynaecology surgery in a clinical setting.

 5. Collate, summarise and report results

Aim of a scoping review is to present an overview of all available material on the research question. Data in the included studies were assessed an analysed with specific focus on the validity and feasibility of a given assessment tool. Each included study was critically reviewed in terms of strengths and limitations.

 6. Consultation (optional)

Consulting with educational and gynaecological experts can provide further information and articles on the subject. Two of the authors are medical education and assessment experts and can contribute additional articles and expert knowledge.