What surgeons tell their patients about the intraoperative role of residents: a qualitative study

Background The issue of residents operating and disclosure to patients about this have not been explored from staff surgeonsʹ perspectives. Methods A preliminary survey was sent to all active surgeons at the University of Toronto. A qualitative interview study followed. Thirty-nine face-to-face interviews were conducted with surgeons. Interviews were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis by 3 reviewers. Results Four encompassing themes emerged: (1) surgeons are comfortable allowing residents to operate independently with graded responsibility, (2) surgeons do not voluntarily inform patients about the involvement of residents in their operation, (3) residents are seen as important assets in a teaching hospital and are beneficial to patient care, and (4) surgeons recognize the trust their patients place in them. Conclusions Surgeons recognize their patient care and teaching responsibilities and the trust that is placed in them. Patients might benefit from a discussion with their surgeon about the role of residents in their surgery.