Is It True That Surgeons Stand on the Right Side During Surgeries?

Surgeries in television shows and movies often portray a consistent image where the surgeon is positioned on the right side of the patient. This depiction is not entirely without basis but it is also not a universal practice. The positioning of a surgeon can vary based on several factors including the type of surgery, the surgeon's hand dominance, and training.

Historical and Practical Considerations

For right-handed surgeons, standing on the right side often offers a practical advantage as their dominate hand is closer to the patient, allowing for more efficient and precise operations. However, this is not a standard rule set in stone. Historically, all surgeons were required to be right-handed. In 1885, left-handed individuals were often excluded from prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins in the United States, which was a leading surgical training ground at the time.

While the strict practice of excluding left-handed surgeons has eased somewhat over the 20th century, it remains a reality that left-handed surgeons cannot simply pick up right-handed instruments without special adaptations. This often means that left-handed surgeons must either continue to use specialized left-handed tools or adapt to right-handed instruments, which presents a challenge in terms of ergonomics and muscle memory.

The Role of Hand Dominance in Surgical Techniques

The choice of side for a surgeon is also influenced by the specific location of the surgery. For instance, when working above the navel (umbilicus), a right-handed surgeon typically stands on the right side. This placement allows the surgeon to have better leverage and more natural reach. However, when working below the navel, the same surgeon might position themselves on the left side to provide more effective access and visibility.

This changing dynamics of surgical positioning also reflects the evolving techniques in modern surgery, such as laparoscopy. Laparoscopic surgeries often require the surgeon to work from an arm's length, positioning themselves opposite the target organ. This setup is more advantageous for right-handed surgeons to use both hands effectively, positioning the dominant hand above the abdomen and the non-dominant hand below.

Impact of Surgical Anatomy on Positioning

A particularly interesting aspect of surgical positioning is the anatomy of the inguinal region, or groin area. This area is crucial for surgical interventions involving hernias and other inguinal pathologies. The surgeon positioning themselves appropriately in relation to this area ensures optimal exposure and visibility, crucial for accurate diagnosis and precise surgical techniques.

The variability in surgical positioning also underscores the diversity in surgical training and adaptation. Surgeons are often trained in different techniques and must be versatile, adapting to various patient positions and surgical challenges. The choice of side becomes a balance between traditional techniques and the latest advances in minimally invasive surgery.

Conclusion

The positioning of surgeons during surgeries is not a rigid practice but rather guided by a combination of practical considerations, personal preference, and the specific demands of the procedure. Hand dominance, surgical training, and the type of surgery all play significant roles in determining the most effective position for the surgeon. Whether a surgeon stands on the right or left side during a procedure is a function of these interplay of factors, highlighting the complex and nuanced nature of surgical practice.