Category: Perspectives, Opinions and Curiosities

Cracking the Diversity Code: The Lack of Inclusivity in US Surgical Leadership

This study reveals a stark lack of diversity among academic surgical leaders in the United States. Although the medical community recognizes the importance of diversity, surgical department chairs, vice chairs, and division chiefs remain predominantly male and underrepresented by racial and ethnic minorities. Notably, leadership roles associated with diversity and faculty development show greater female […]

Consensus-Based Prioritization of Simulation Procedures for General Surgery Trainee Assessment

This study aimed to create a ranked list of surgical procedures for high-stakes simulation assessments in general surgery training. Using a Delphi consensus approach, a diverse group of 30 surgical trainers and a steering committee evaluated procedures based on perceived importance, risk, frequency, and feasibility. The study produced prioritized lists for two key training stages: […]

Factors Affecting 1-Year Mortality in Elderly Cancer Patients After Major Abdominal Surgery

In a study involving 378 elderly cancer patients aged 80 or older who underwent major abdominal surgery, researchers found that 24.3% of them died within a year. Various factors were linked to this one-year mortality, including preoperative performance status, significant weight loss, the use of vasopressors during surgery, and postoperative blood transfusions. Encouragingly, adherence to […]

Poor Mental Health Access Linked to Worse Outcomes in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients

Mental health significantly impacts cancer care. Researchers analyzed Medicare data on patients with gastrointestinal cancer and mental illness from 2004 to 2016. They found that those with limited access to psychiatric services faced higher risks of postoperative complications, extended hospital stays, 90-day readmissions, and poorer overall outcomes. Patients with mental illness and restricted access to […]

The Lancet: Two Centuries of Impact on Medicine and Society

The Lancet, celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2023, reflects on its historical journey of shaping the medical landscape in the UK and globally. This survey explores how the journal has championed “the best science for better lives” through pioneering articles on medical advancements and healthcare organization. It also delves into the journal’s advocacy and campaigns […]

Gender Bias in Surgical Equipment: A Barrier to Women Surgeons

This study delves into the challenges faced by women surgeons due to an androcentric bias in surgical equipment. Surveys were distributed to female surgeons in North America and Australasia. Out of 480 respondents, 453 were surgeons. A significant number (89%) reported difficulties in using surgical instruments related to size, while 71% struggled with required grip […]