Exploring perspectives and engagement in space surgery: a survey of SAGES members

SAGES' space surgery task force was created in 2023 in response to the potential increased need for surgical intervention in space as humanity seeks to establish larger and more permanent populations in space environments. This task force sought to assess the needs, limitations, and anticipated challenges of surgical care in space environments and to offer leadership opportunities by surveying the SAGES membership.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of the SAGES membership soliciting respondent's experience in aerospace medicine and related fields, as well as members' interests within space surgery and their opinions about the future surgical needs of space explorers. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographics, interests, and preferences, and narrative review and thematic analysis were used to analyze open-ended responses.

Survey response rate was 6.1%. Most respondents were attending minimally invasive or general surgeons. Experience was reported in telehealth, artificial intelligence, austere environment surgery, and military medicine. Greatest interest was expressed in the application of robotic technologies in space. Respondents wished to participate in technical skills workshops and to view presentations by astronauts on space medicine as part of the future activities of the task force at SAGES annual meetings. Themes identified as challenges to space surgery included microgravity, resource limitations, remote surgery, training, and specific medical concerns. Future areas of focus included technology and innovation, protocol/system design, adjustment to medical standards, and training programs.

This survey identified a strong interest among the SAGES membership in leading the conversation surrounding space surgery as humanity expands beyond low earth orbit. Numerous opportunities, challenges, and new directions were identified by respondents that will guide the future activities of the task force.