Responding to Surgical Errors: From Psychological Impact to Disclosure-A Systematic Review.
Ann Surg OncolJun 6, 2026 (epub)
Isolde M Busch, Veronica Marinelli, Olga Maggioni et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined the psychological impact of surgical errors and adverse events on clinicians, analyzing 30 studies with 11,723 participants. It found that 53-89% of surgical staff reported feelings of guilt, and up to 96% experienced emotional distress. Disclosure rates varied from 17% to 62%, highlighting significant barriers to transparent communication.
Key findings
- 53-89% of surgical staff reported feelings of guilt after adverse events.
- Up to 96% of clinicians experienced some form of emotional impact.
- Disclosure rates for surgical errors ranged from 17% to 62%.
- Formal psychological support was accessed by only 1.6-7% of staff.
Why it matters
Understanding the psychological effects of surgical errors on clinicians is crucial for developing support systems that enhance staff well-being and promote patient safety. Improved disclosure practices can lead to better outcomes for both patients and healthcare providers.