Have you ever made a mistake in a surgical procedure? If so, how did you handle it?

JUNIOR LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

Yes, I have made a mistake in a surgical procedure before. It was during a lung resection surgery where I accidentally clipped a small blood vessel, causing minimal bleeding. Thankfully, I quickly recognized the mistake and immediately took steps to control the bleeding by applying pressure and using electrocautery. I informed the supervising surgeon about the situation and together we successfully resolved the issue without any complications or harm to the patient. This experience taught me the importance of meticulous attention to detail and the significance of clear communication in the operating room.

Here is a more solid answer:

Yes, I have encountered a mistake during a surgical procedure. It was during a video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy where I unintentionally nicked a small branch of the pulmonary artery. This resulted in minimal bleeding that was quickly identified and managed by applying pressure and using sutures. I immediately informed the lead surgeon about the situation, and together we performed a thorough assessment to ensure there were no other associated injuries. We decided to convert to an open thoracotomy for better visualization and safely repair the arterial injury. We successfully completed the procedure without any further complications or impact on the patient's recovery. This experience reinforced the importance of meticulous dissection and a comprehensive understanding of anatomical variations, prompting me to enhance my knowledge through additional training and seek guidance from senior surgeons to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer provides more specific details about the mistake, including the procedure and the specific artery involved. It also highlights the candidate's analytical thinking by considering the best course of action, in this case, converting to an open thoracotomy. However, it could be further improved by discussing any measures taken to prevent similar mistakes in the future and how the candidate's commitment to ethical medical practice and patient confidentiality played a role.

An example of a exceptional answer:

Yes, I have encountered a mistake during a surgical procedure, which presented an opportunity for professional growth and learning. It was a case of VATS lobectomy, where I encountered a challenging anatomy due to adhesions from prior infections. While dissecting near the hilum, I inadvertently injured a small branch of the pulmonary artery, leading to moderate bleeding. Recognizing the urgency, I immediately controlled the bleeding by applying pressure, vascular clamps, and using sutures. I promptly informed the lead surgeon about the incident and together we assessed the situation comprehensively, including obtaining intraoperative imaging to ensure no associated injuries were missed. To ensure patient safety, we decided to convert to an open thoracotomy to gain better access and safely repair the arterial injury. We completed the procedure without further complications, and the patient had an uneventful recovery. This experience reinforced the importance of meticulous surgical planning, including thorough preoperative assessment, and prompt recognition and management of intraoperative challenges. As a result, I actively sought additional training in complex surgical cases, including attending workshops and engaging in virtual case discussions with experienced surgeons. I also participate in regular morbidity and mortality meetings to discuss adverse events and implement institutional protocols for preventing similar errors. Upholding ethical medical practice and patient confidentiality, I provided a detailed debriefing to the patient and their family, ensuring transparency while maintaining their trust and confidence in the healthcare team.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer provides more comprehensive details about the mistake, including the challenging anatomy and the steps taken to control the bleeding. It also highlights the candidate's commitment to ongoing professional growth and learning by seeking additional training and engaging in case discussions with experienced surgeons. The answer addresses the importance of surgical planning, recognizing intraoperative challenges, and implementing measures to prevent similar errors. Additionally, it demonstrates the candidate's commitment to ethical medical practice and patient confidentiality by discussing the debriefing process with the patient and their family.

How to prepare for this question:

Reflect on past experiences in the operating room and identify any mistakes made during surgical procedures. Consider the specific details of the mistake, its impact on the patient, and the actions taken to address it.

Familiarize yourself with common surgical complications and how they can be managed. Understanding different scenarios and appropriate responses will help you provide a well-rounded answer.

Highlight the importance of effective communication and collaboration with the surgical team in handling mistakes. Discuss how you actively seek guidance and involve senior surgeons in decision-making.

Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing education and improvement by mentioning any additional training or professional development activities you have pursued to enhance your surgical skills and knowledge.

Consider patient confidentiality and ethical considerations when discussing mistakes. Explain how you maintain open communication with patients and their families while respecting their privacy.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?