Working with a Surgical Assistant

Abstract

The surgeon and assistant must establish expectations and methods before operating together, agreeing upon verbal and non-verbal cues. Clarification should be requested when in doubt. Cross-training of surgical staff is encouraged to avoid novice assistants when a primary assistant is absent. Give feedback after a procedure where an assistant or surgeon performed problematically. Do not let frustrations build, rather, discuss them as soon as discretely possible. The surgeon’s and assistant’s hands should not be in the field simultaneously without prior explicit direction by the surgeon. Surgeons and assistants should always visualize instruments and tissue that they manipulate. Distracting conversation should be avoided, comforting the patient when necessary. Soft music is often an acceptable alternative.