What makes a good surgeon ?

The eternal question!

What makes a good surgeon? Why are some surgeons better at their craft than others? It is indeed a million-dollar question!

After spending more than a decade in the surgical business as a trainee surgeon initially and a practicing surgeon now, I feel that I can provide you with a reasonable answer

Is natural ability important to make a good surgeon? Undoubtedly! Steady hands , Great hand, and eye coordination, Situational awareness, Ability to stay calm and collected under pressure – These are all good traits to have – and some individuals are born with them 🙂

However, within the limits of natural ability, all of these traits can be trained and developed in an individual. One may not reach the potential of an exceptionally talented individual, but they can come remarkably close. This is where standradized training and simulation come into the picture. Aviation industry is phenomenal in using structured and simulation based training to optimize the performance of pilots – We surgeons are lagging behind unfortunately!!

Apart from the technical aspects of surgery , what is often overlooked is the Non technical aspects. As a surgeon you are always managing a team, You are a team leader. You are an advocate for your patients. You are continuously assessing an balancing risk Vs benefit for each of your actions. Hence the non technical aspects of surgeons work makes a very important part of his working life – hence attitude , leadership qualities are very important too!

So All in All what makes a great surgeon ? The truth of the matter is there is no correct answer! I think it is safe to say that it is a unique blend of technical and non technical skills as well as in born ability that makes a great surgeon!!

See you soon in another Blog!

TC!!