Developing a coaching mechanism for practicing surgeons

Dimitrios Stefanidis, Brittany Anderson-Montoya, Robert V. Higgins, Manuel E. Pimentel, Patrick Rowland, Madison O. Scarborough, Danelle Higgins

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

32 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background While performance feedback and assessment are hallmarks of surgical training, they abruptly cease after training is completed. In their absence, performance may stagnate and poor habits persist. Our aim was to develop a coaching mechanism for practicing surgeons with feedback provision based on objective performance assessment. Methods Technical and nontechnical intraoperative video recordings from laparoscopic or robotic cholecystectomies, colectomies, and hysterectomies were assessed by a blinded surgeon and a human factors expert, respectively. Aspects of performance in need of improvement were noted, and a coaching session was developed for feedback provision to participating surgeons. This 4-hour coaching session consisted of a didactic lecture with video review and hands-on practice using procedural and mannequin-based simulation. Results Thirty-two practicing surgeons (18 general; 14 gynecologists) from 6 different hospitals were assessed, and 9 of them participated in coaching. Technical aspects identified for performance improvement included suboptimal trocar placement, inadequate critical view achievement during laparoscopic cholecystectomies, poor visualization of the operating field, bimanual dexterity, and dissection techniques, while nontechnical aspects included inappropriate handling of distractions and interruptions, poor ergonomic positioning and situational awareness, and inadequate mitigation of delays. Most surgeons appropriately accomplished some of the objectives of the distraction scenario, but none was able to achieve expert levels on Fundamentals of Laparoscopy tasks. Participants perceived the coaching sessions as highly valuable. Conclusion Our study identified several technical and nontechnical skill sets of practicing surgeons in need of improvement and provided support for the implementation of coaching programs for surgeons on an ongoing basis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)536-545
Number of pages10
JournalSurgery (United States)
Volume160
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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