A major analysis of NHS staff has revealed that female surgeons are experiencing sexual harassment, assault, and even rape by their colleagues. The study found a pattern of female trainees being abused by senior male surgeons, with incidents occurring in NHS hospitals. The report shows that nearly two-thirds of women surgeons have experienced sexual harassment, and a third have been sexually assaulted in the past five years. Many women fear reporting incidents due to concerns about damaging their careers and lack confidence in the NHS taking appropriate action. The findings have been described as "truly shocking" by the Royal College of Surgeons.
Two major studies conducted in Canada and Sweden have found that patients who are operated on by female surgeons have better outcomes, with fewer complications and the need for follow-up care, compared to those operated on by male surgeons. The studies suggest that female surgeons may achieve better results by operating more slowly and taking their time in the operating theatre. The findings highlight the need for male surgeons to reflect on their approach to surgery and learn from their female colleagues. The results also emphasize the importance of attracting and retaining more women in surgery and promoting them to positions of influence.
A new study published in the British Medical Journal found that patients who underwent surgery performed by female surgeons had slightly lower mortality rates and fewer complications compared to those operated on by male surgeons. The study analyzed data from over 100,000 surgical procedures in Ontario, Canada, and suggests that gender disparities in surgical outcomes may exist. However, the study does not establish a causal relationship between surgeon gender and patient outcomes, and further research is needed to understand the underlying factors contributing to these differences.
