The surgeon's assistant: an orthopaedic model at Hastings

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Surgical Team Dynamics
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• The Orthopaedic Surgeon's Assistant (OSA) role has been integral to the orthopaedic surgical team at Hastings since 1983.
• The presence of a trained OSA contributes to continuity and stability within the surgical department.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Orthopaedic Surgeon's Assistant role on patient treatment and departmental performance.
• To discuss the value of the OSA position and explore alternative orthopaedic team models.
• To advocate for a nationally accredited training scheme and qualification for OSAs.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal observation of an established Orthopaedic Surgeon's Assistant role.
• Analysis of departmental performance metrics and patient treatment enhancement.
• Review of existing orthopaedic team structures and training pathways.

Main Results:

• The OSA role demonstrably enhances patient treatment and departmental efficiency.
• Improved training opportunities for Higher Surgical Trainees are a key benefit.
• The role provides essential continuity and stability to the orthopaedic surgical team.

Conclusions:

• The Orthopaedic Surgeon's Assistant is a valuable asset to orthopaedic surgical teams.
• Standardized training and national accreditation are necessary to optimize the OSA role.
• Further exploration of orthopaedic team models is warranted to enhance surgical care delivery.