By Simon MacLean, MBChB, FRCS(Tr&Orth), PGDipCE

As hand surgeons, we’re always looking to improve results for our patients. Surgery is an art and pushes us as individuals. Success as a surgeon relies not just on technical expertise but also creative thought; problem-solving, generation of ideas, and a multitude of interpersonal and self-analytical skills. Success as a surgeon also relies on knowing the right people to talk to.

Most of us are fortunate to have received excellent training and have gained competence in a diverse range of skills. Learning, adapting and improving as a surgeon is a life-long process, however. Most of our learning begins as our formal training ends- when clinical challenges and new responsibility arise, life events occur, and physical and mental stressors develop.

Continued mentorship is a vital cog in this process of improving as a hand surgeon. All great players need a coach, and in surgery this is no different. On a personal level – my wife and family keep me level, and allow me to retain perspective on life as a whole. But, at work – I use my mentor. They can be the one you call with a clinical challenge, advice about a dispute with a colleague, or to pass a new idea over with. Challenge yourself; ask them to come to observe you in the OR one morning, and ask for honest feedback.

Textbooks, journals, webinars and lectures are a vital part of the education process. Having a “career coach” is even more important. In the words of Ara Parseghian – “A good coach will make his players see what they can be rather than what they are.”

Mr Simon MacLean
MBChB, FRCS(Tr&Orth), PGDipCE
Orthopaedic and Upper Limb Surgeon
Tauranga Hospital, BOPDHB, New Zealand