Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 28, 2025
06:48
Emergency Undocking in Robotic Surgery: A Simulation Curriculum
Published on: May 20, 2018
9.6K
Dual surgeon operating to improve patient safety
R Ellis1, J A Hardie2, D J Summerton3
1Intercollegiate Committee for Basic Surgical Examinations, United Kingdom; Urology Department, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
The British Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
|July 17, 2021
Summary
Surgical skill fade due to COVID-19 layoffs can be addressed by dual surgeon operating. This approach helps surgeons regain proficiency and confidence, enhancing patient safety and surgical technique.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education and Patient Safety
- Healthcare Management during Pandemics
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced surgical procedures, leading to potential skill fade in surgeons.
- Prolonged surgical inactivity can diminish technical and non-technical skills, increasing patient safety risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore dual surgeon operating as a strategy for regaining surgical skills currency post-pandemic.
- To identify benefits and barriers associated with implementing dual surgeon operating.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis drawing parallels with aviation's human factors principles.
- Discussion of practical considerations and challenges for dual surgeon operating.
Main Results:
- Dual surgeon operating can mitigate risks by allowing surgeons to regain currency safely.
- This model offers benefits for low-volume complex cases, surgeon training, and team cohesion.
Conclusions:
- Dual surgeon operating presents a viable solution for addressing pandemic-induced surgical skill fade.
- Overcoming barriers like finance, training, and power dynamics is crucial for successful implementation.
