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Gender Inequality in Surgery - a Narrative Review
Lena Walfisch1, Alice Wermke1, Christina Pempe1
1Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Klinik und Poliklinik für Orthopädie, Unfallchirurgie und Plastische Chirurgie, Deutschland, Leipzig.
Zeitschrift Fur Orthopadie Und Unfallchirurgie
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Gender disparities in surgical careers stem from structural issues, not just individual choices. Addressing these modifiable factors can create more equitable opportunities for all surgeons.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Career Development
Background:
- Gender-specific disadvantages impact surgical training and career progression.
- Factors include disparities in surgical exposure, mentorship, and work-life balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review structural, cultural, psychosocial, and organizational factors affecting gender equity in surgery.
- To identify modifiable conditions influencing career trajectories.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing evidence.
- Analysis of factors influencing surgical training and career progression.
Main Results:
- Hierarchical structures, work-family incompatibility, and institutional frameworks create unequal opportunities.
- Unequal career trajectories are significantly shaped by structural conditions.
Conclusions:
- Surgical career inequality is not solely due to individual choices.
- Transparent training, structured support, and family-friendly models can promote gender equity.