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Challenges Faced by Left-Handed Surgeons: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Akash Tomar1, Adarsh Sugathan2, Tejaswini Girish3
1Department of Physiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India.
La Clinica Terapeutica
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Left-handed surgeons face significant training and ergonomic challenges due to a lack of specialized instruments. Improving access to left-handed tools and mentorship can enhance surgical training equity.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Left-handed surgeons often adapt to right-handed surgical instruments and environments.
- Limited data exists on the specific professional and ergonomic challenges faced by left-handed surgeons in India.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the professional and ergonomic challenges encountered by left-handed surgeons in Karnataka, India.
- To assess awareness, mentorship, training obstacles, and instrument access among left-handed surgical trainees.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was administered to left-handed surgeons and trainees in Karnataka.
- The survey included demographic data and questions on laterality awareness, mentorship, training difficulties, and instrument availability.
- Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (chi-square/Fisher's exact).
Main Results:
- Out of 77 respondents, 88.3% were aware of laterality issues pre-surgery.
- 85.7% experienced practical difficulties during surgical training, with 57.1% feeling pressured to become ambidextrous.
- Only 10.4% received left-handed instruments, despite 81.8% knowing they exist; instrument access and obstacles varied significantly.
Conclusions:
- Left-handed surgeons encounter substantial ergonomic and educational barriers with inadequate institutional support.
- Structured mentorship programs and increased availability of left-handed surgical instruments are recommended to improve training equity and quality.
