Patients have better outcomes with female surgeons, studies find

[IwantToRetire]

Differences in technique, speed and risk-taking suggested as reasons for surgery by men leading to more problems

Doctors in Canada and Sweden reviewed more than 1m patient records from two separate medical registers and found that patients seen by female surgeons had significantly better outcomes with fewer problems in the months after the operation.

The researchers are investigating potential reasons for the differences, but the records suggest that female surgeons tend to operate more slowly and may achieve better results by taking their time in the operating theatre.

Dr Christopher Wallis, who led one of the studies at Mount Sinai hospital in Toronto, said the findings should prompt male surgeons to reflect on their approach to surgery and learn from female colleagues for the benefit of their patients. “As a male surgeon,
I think these data should cause me and my colleagues to pause and consider why this may be,” he said

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/aug/30/female-surgeons-patient-outcomes-better-studies

I was sure this was an old story but seems to be similar to this one
Women more likely to suffer death or complications if operated on by a man
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/womens_rights/4425995-Women-more-likely-to-suffer-death-or-complications-if-operated-on-by-a-man

If I’m ever in a position to require serious surgery, and actually have a choice of surgeon, I’ll bear it in mind!

That said, sadly it’s not surprising. I understand the medical profession is still incredibly sexist and it’s harder for women to make their way, especially in some specializations. Women who are surgeons are probably those who really, really wanted to do it, so pushed on despite being treated badly. Not exactly the same, but I have a theory that male hairdressers are better, on average, than female hairdressers, because they have to really want to do it: it’s not something a man would ever just fall into.

Of course, beyond that, it’s harder for women to succeed in many professions. Those who make it through the sexist hiring processes are probably better, on average.

I don’t doubt it’s true and if there’s a difference in the operations because men tend to do the more complex/risky operations, there’s probably a sexist reason for that too.

I have a theory that male hairdressers are better, on average, than female hairdressers, because they have to really want to do it: it’s not something a man would ever just fall into.

Interesting - I have always found the opposite. I find male hairdressers won't listen to what you actually want, and they also seem to expect female customers to be fan-girls and hang on their every word/be grateful for their attention.

Female surgeon did a great job with my abdominal hysterectomy. Every HCP who has seen the scar since has commented on how neat it is. You can barely see it several years on.

As someone who has unfortunately had to have a few surgeries, three were done by women and had no complications and the healing time was a lot less than anticipated. Five were down by men and although they were classed as minor four of them needed further corrective surgeries.