In resource-challenged areas of Sub-Saharan Africa, a shortage of surgeons limits access to vital surgical care. To address this, a systematic review explored surgical task shifting and task sharing where non-surgeon clinicians (NSCs) perform specific surgical procedures. The study analyzed 31 relevant studies and found that NSCs are increasingly involved in surgeries such as hernia repair and orthopedic procedures. Importantly, the research showed that NSCs achieve comparable safety outcomes to surgeons, offering a promising solution to improve surgical care in underserved regions.

Review by Ryan I, Shah KV (…) Swanson J et 3 al. in World J Surg

© 2023. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Société Internationale de Chirurgie.

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A surgical mentorship program for medical students aimed to foster career development and networking. The study engaged 43 mentees and 21 mentors, finding that both groups highly valued effective communication. While post-program surveys showed improved communication and meaningful connections, some mentees critiqued mentor communication, and mentors highlighted student initiative. This pilot program demonstrated the potential of structured mentorship in supporting aspiring surgeons but highlighted the need for robust communication and commitment from both mentors and mentees.

Journal Article by Porterhouse M, Negris O (…) Alvarado R et 3 al. in J Surg Res

Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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In response to evolving medical education needs, the role of Vice Chair of Education (VCE) in a Department of Surgery (DoS) is emerging. However, this role’s specifics aren’t well-defined. This study engaged 13 faculty members and 13 VCEs to explore this novel position. Stakeholders welcomed the VCE role, albeit with some questions about its impact. Four themes emerged among stakeholders, including support for education and balancing clinical, research, and educational responsibilities. VCEs highlighted leveraging experience, establishing frameworks, and leading in education. This study informs the development of VCE roles in academic DoS, offering a blueprint for other institutions.

Journal Article by Whaley Z, Palenzuela D (…) Phitayakorn R et 4 al. in J Surg Res

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The 2023 AABB International Guidelines on red blood cell transfusion are here. They provide recommendations for adults and children based on extensive research. For adults, the guidelines suggest a restrictive transfusion strategy with a hemoglobin concentration less than 7 g/dl for stable patients, which was found to be safe. For children, similar strategies are recommended, taking into account specific cardiac conditions and surgical stages. Overall, these guidelines encourage clinicians to consider clinical context and alternative therapies when making transfusion decisions for patients, promoting a more tailored and cautious approach.

Journal Article by Carson JL, Stanworth SJ (…) Pagano MB et 24 al. in JAMA

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In a survey involving 440 surgeons and anesthesiologists, 55.2% of participants reported experiences of gender bias. Women faculty members, in particular, expressed the need to continually prove themselves, experienced less respect, had fewer opportunities and resources, faced more assumptions about their abilities, and felt the necessity to adjust their demeanor to connect with their teams, all compared to their male colleagues. These findings emphasize the presence of gender bias in the perioperative environment, highlighting the importance of creating a more equitable workplace.

Journal Article by Staub M, Han B (…) Eckhouse SR et 8 al. in Am J Surg

Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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