Is there a standard reaction of surgeons to surgical complications? Study on an interesting historical case

Abstract

The surgeon has been recognised as the "second victim" of a surgical complication and the long term psychological impact of a surgical adverse event has been demonstrated. However, the immediate and early psychological response to a surgical complication has not been properly investigated. In this manuscript we analyse a well-known historical case of a surgical complication and discuss the early reaction of the surgeon. Sir Anthony Eden, UK Prime Minister in the '50s, underwent a cholecystectomy for gallstones, but the operation complicated with a biliary fistula causing jaundice and sepsis. The reaction of the surgeon followed a precise three-stage pattern that can be identified in almost every case of surgical complication. Initially he denied the complication, with a simplistic attitude, but subsequently he felt overwhelmed by the environmental pressure and gave up. The early psychological response of a surgeon to a surgical complication usually follows the three phases of "denial", "desperation" and "action or get-away". In the denial phase the surgeon tries to reassure him or herself by diminishing the real burden of the complication and to demonstrate self-confidence. After few days, when it is evident that the complication is more severe than expected, the surgeon changes completely his or her attitude and becomes more and more depressed and anxious. The reaction to phase 2 will determine the subsequent phase 3, where the surgeon would choose between a positive and proactive attitude or getting-away, thus disengaging from the complicated patient. Acknowledging these three phases would help team leaders and colleagues to recognise the need for a supportive, friendly and blame-free environment and to act timely to help the surgeon to overcome the negative impact on his or her personality and career.