Changing Hands: Why Being Ambidextrous Is a Trait That Needs to Be Acquired and Nurtured in Neurosurgery

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this article is examine the issue of ambidexterity under the neurosurgical lens and demonstrate its need, its validity, and its advantages to neurosurgery as a whole.

Methods: Inspiration can be derived from extraordinary circumstances that shaped ordinary people into legends. There have been instances in history where highly skilled professionals relying on hand motor skills had the misfortune of having to relearn their skill set with the other, less dominant hand.

Results: We as neurosurgeons have always been ahead of the curve. It is only natural for us to understand the need and advantages of using both our hands with equal dexterity. Whether ambidexterity is an inherited trait or one that can be taught and, if practiced, mastered has been controversial.

Conclusion: These remarkable individuals from history demonstrate that if one is willing to practice without ego and one has the right motivation, one can use both hands with equal dexterity.

Keywords: Ambidexterity; Neurosurgery; Surgical skills.