The effect on the surgeon of surgical complications: Are we doing enough to provide support?
Published Date: 16th July 2020
Publication Authors: Clifford R, Kalaiselvan R
Introduction
Surgical complications have been shown to effect surgeons in a wide variety of domains, including psychological consequences and change in practice. A recent systematic review including over 8500 participants concluded that more formal support for surgical wellbeing after complications is required. We aimed to assess the effect of surgical complications on surgeon wellbeing within our region and whether our current support systems are sufficient.
Method
A cross‐sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted in September 2019 for general surgeons within the Mersey region. Assessment included surgical experience, classification of deemed worst complication, emotional response and coping strategies employed.
Results
87 responses were collected; 39.08% Consultant, 53.32% trainees. 87% of responses had 3 years of surgical experience or more. 82% of surgeons reported a Clavien‐Dindo complication of greater than class 3, with 50% of those resulting in mortality. 81.12% experienced feelings of worry for the patient, 74.12% guilt, 72.94% sadness and 64.71% a change in their professional confidence level. Feelings lasted between ‘a few weeks’ and ‘years’. Coping strategies varied from discussion and reflection, to medication and counselling. 31% identified lack of experience or supervision as a trigger for the event. 62% changed their practice as a result. 81.61% felt that more formal support is required.
Conclusions
Experience of surgical complications has a significant effect on surgeons of all grades, with effects lasting long‐term. More consideration needs to be given to how to provide formal support following these events, in concordance with other high intensity professions..
Clifford, R; Kalaiselvan, R. (2020). The effect on the surgeon of surgical complications: Are we doing enough to provide support?. Colorectal Disease. 22 (S1), 33