Introduction

The question of whether surgeons experience pain during surgical procedures has long been a topic of discussion in the medical community. This article delves into the experiences of surgeons and explores the challenges they face, particularly in high-stress and physically demanding procedures.

Personal Experiences of Surgeons

One of the notable experiences shared by surgeons involves the physical demands of performing complex surgeries. Dr. John Claims, a seasoned general surgeon from a prominent medical institution, shares, 'It is relatively difficult to do laparoscopic surgery on patients who weigh over 600 pounds and not feel a lot of discomfort in the hands. We just have to push through it.' This underscores the physical toll that can be taken on a surgeon during such procedures.

Another surgeon, Dr. Lisa Reynolds, adds, 'I had a fall while playing tennis and suspected a crack fracture. I had already posted one surgery and was working in a remote town where I couldn’t ask for help. I decided to complete the surgery. I didn’t feel pain during the critical stages but when it came to skin suturing, I started feeling it. This is my experience.'

Managing Pain and Physical Stress

While surgeons face significant physical challenges, they have developed strategies to manage these stresses. Dr. John Claims advises his residents and students, 'Consider it like inserting the instruments and then laying a mattress across your forearms. It’s going to get wearisome to the point of pausing from time to time in non-critical parts of the procedure before cramping subsides and circulation is restored in the surgeon’s hands and we can move along. We deal with it and then proceed safely.'

Another important aspect is the management of pain during surgery, often through medication. Dr. Reynolds explains, 'Of course, I do. That’s why they’re high as hell before they start operating on you. Seriously though, I’m sure they get cramps in their neck and cramps in their hands and they do not get high, not that I know of anyway.'

Psychological and Physical Stages of Surgery

The surgical process is often divided into two stages: critical and routine. According to Dr. John Claims, during the critical stages, surgeons are so engrossed and focused that they forget about pain. 'During critical stages, the surgeon is completely engrossed and forgets pain,' he explains.

However, during routine stages, the physical strain becomes more apparent. Dr. Lisa Reynolds mentions, 'Of course, I do. That’s why they’re high as hell before they start operating on you. Seriously though, I’m sure they get cramps in their neck and cramps in their hands, and they do not get high, not that I know of anyway.'

Professional Challenges and Martyrdom

Professional integrity and patient care are paramount for surgeons. Dr. John Claims emphasizes, 'Martyrdom is not a prerequisite for any surgical procedure. We deal with the discomfort and proceed safely. Our primary concern is the well-being and recovery of our patients.'

Dr. Lisa Reynolds agrees, 'We work through the discomfort to deliver the best possible care. Surgical procedures are not a test of our pain tolerance, but a test of our ability to deliver safe and effective medical care.'

Conclusion

The experiences shared by surgeons provide valuable insights into the demanding nature of their profession. While physical and psychological pain are inherent challenges, the focus remains on delivering the best possible care to patients. Effective pain management and resilience, both physically and mentally, are key components of a surgeon’s success.