Abstract
Introduction
Training the next generation of surgeon's forms part of routine Consultant practice. Stress causes activation of the Autonomic Nervous System and this can be directly measured using heart rate (HR). Training time is limited with pressures from EWTD and management and efficiency targets. The aim of this study was to assess whether being an orthopaedic trainer is more stressful than performing the surgery.
Methodology
This was a prospective multicentre study. Consultant orthopaedic surgeon HR was monitored intra-operatively using a ‘Wahoo Fitness’ chest strap and the data recorded by the proprietary Android app. Data was collected prior to surgery to obtain a resting heart rate, and at set points during total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
The peak and mean HR for each stage of the operation were recorded and compared to cases where the consultant surgeon was performing the case or assisting a trainee. Data was compared with a 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures.
Results
23 cases (13 THA, trainer operating in 3 and 10 TKR, trainer operating in 2). The average baseline HR during the procedure was significantly higher when the consultant surgeon was performing the procedure when compared to training a trainee. There were spikes in consultant HR at insertion of both acetabulum and femur during THA, during component trailing and insertion during TKA. These spikes were lower when training than when performing.
Discussion
The average HR is lower and the increase in HR at key stages of THA and TKA is less when training than when performing. Although difficult to disentangle the contribution of physical exertion from stress, the lower HR may indicate lower stress, and given stress can significantly shorten your life expectancy – having and training a trainee could seriously help prolong your life and career.
