Surgeons need to enhance teamwork with anesthesiologists to improve patient safety and outcomes in the OR.

• Interviews with 40 surgeons and anesthesiologists revealed seven barriers to collaboration, including communication issues and professional identity conflicts.
• Five effective strategies were identified: fostering relationships, improving communication at all surgical phases, and adopting a mindset of respect and trust.

Actionable insights from this study can help surgeons build better working relationships, ultimately benefiting patient care and safety.

• Methods like early case discussions and frequent updates can strengthen collaboration in real-time.