Microsurgeons are superstitious? A statistical survey by questionnaire

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Surgical Practice
• Psychology in Medicine

Background:

• Microsurgery outcomes are scientific, yet unpredictable, creating uncertainty for surgeons.
• Japanese culture often incorporates superstitions, contrasting with the objective nature of surgical results.
• Understanding the psychological preparation of microsurgeons is crucial for optimizing performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mental preparation and beliefs of front-line Japanese microsurgeons.
• To explore the relationship between superstition, daily habits, and surgical preparation.
• To categorize microsurgeons based on their pre-operative routines and beliefs.

Main Methods:

• A detailed questionnaire was administered to Japanese microsurgeons.
• The survey covered annual surgery volume, daily life consciousness, pre/post-operative routines, and beliefs in superstitions or good luck charms.
• Twenty responses from front-line microsurgeons were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Microsurgeons employ various preparation strategies from the day before until just before operations.
• Three types of surgeons were identified: Type A (daily preparation, no superstitions), Type B (no daily preparation, but superstitions/charms), and Type C (no special preparation or superstitions).
• Experienced microsurgeons were significantly represented in Type C, showing a tendency towards natural, non-mystical daily lives.

Conclusions:

• Experienced microsurgeons, particularly those in leadership roles, tend to be less superstitious.
• A natural, non-mystical approach in daily life correlates with less reliance on superstition for surgical preparation among experienced surgeons.
• The study highlights the diverse psychological coping mechanisms microsurgeons utilize to manage the inherent uncertainties of their field.