Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 22, 2026
06:48
Emergency Undocking in Robotic Surgery: A Simulation Curriculum
Published on: May 20, 2018
9.6K
Toolkit to Promote Collaboration Between Surgeons and Anesthesiologists: Addressing Common Barriers to Perioperative
Helen S Wei1, Fei Wu2, Robert E Berry3
1Division of Acute Care Surgery, Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|April 21, 2026
Summary
Surgeons and anesthesiologists face collaboration barriers. Practical strategies like clear communication and relationship building can enhance teamwork for safer patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Patient Safety
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Interpersonal and systems barriers impacting surgeon-anesthesiologist collaboration are not well understood.
- Effective teamwork is crucial for perioperative safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify sources of conflict between surgeons and anesthesiologists.
- Determine practical strategies to improve collaboration in perioperative care.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative phenomenological study using semi-structured virtual interviews.
- Forty surgeons and anesthesiologists across 24 states were interviewed.
- Thematic analysis of interview transcripts identified collaboration patterns.
Main Results:
- Seven themes identified barriers: Systems, Professional Identity, Communication, Relationships, Personality, Behaviors, Trainees, and Medical Management.
- Five themes emerged for enhancing collaboration: Communication, Relationship Building, Team-Building Attitudes, Team-Building Actions, and Rebuilding Trust.
- Practical tactics include introductions, thorough communication, and fostering mutual respect.
Conclusions:
- Surgeons and anesthesiologists recognize factors hindering collaboration.
- Actionable strategies like deliberate communication and relationship building can improve teamwork.
- Enhanced collaboration supports safe and effective patient care.
