The impact of perioperative adverse events on kidney transplant surgeons: a mixed-methods study

Adverse events (AEs) are an inevitable part of every surgeon's career. There is currently no evidence regarding the impact of perioperative AEs on transplant surgeons. This study aims to evaluate the impact of perioperative AEs on kidney transplant surgeons, exploring the emotional, professional and personal consequences when they occur.

A mixed-methods exploratory sequential design was used. Purposive sampling was completed to recruit 15 consultant kidney transplant surgeons to be interviewed about an AE that they had experienced. Individual, semi-structured qualitative interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed. Alongside this, participants completed two personality questionnaires: the Big Five Inventory and the DOSPERT attitude to risk questionnaire. Integration of the two data sets occurred during the analysis stage.

Four main themes with relevant subthemes were identified: (1) AEs have a psychological impact; (2) the surgical environment influences response; (3) changes in practice following an AE; (4) the influence of personality on response. Triangulation of findings displayed how external factors such as personality, severity of the AE, seniority and the family's reaction can all influence how AEs are processed.

This study highlights the psychological and professional impact of perioperative AEs on kidney transplant surgeons. Findings suggest team dynamics, coping strategies and identity shape responses. Further research is needed to inform future support services that are currently not routinely relied upon by transplant surgeons.