ISSN: 0970-938X (Print) | 0976-1683 (Electronic)
Biomedical Research
An International Journal of Medical Sciences
Commentary - Biomedical Research (2018) Volume 29, Issue 2
Comment for the evolving story of overlapping surgery
Jie Zhang, Zhong Jia1,2* and Chao-Jun Kong1,2
1Department of Hepatopancreatobililiary Surgery, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Hangzhou Hospital, PR China
2Department of Hepatopancreatobililiary Surgery, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University Fourth Affiliated Clinical Hospital, PR China
- *Corresponding Author:
- Zhong Jia
Department of Hepatopancreatobililiary Surgery
Hangzhou First People's Hospital
Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Hangzhou Hospital &
Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University Fourth Affiliated
Clinical Hospital, PR China
Accepted on October 31, 2017
DOI: 10.4066/biomedicalresearch.29-17-2323
Visit for more related articles at Biomedical ResearchComment
The evolving story of overlapping surgery described by Michelle et al. [1] indeedly unveiled the tip of the iceberg mainly due to its popularity and rich return. But it also may embrace problematic risks in advertent harm. At first glance, thanks to this instructive and educational analysis on overlapping surgery, many viewpoints are worthy to be learned.
On second look, some issues still let readers confusing. For instance, who on earth often performs overlapping surgery? Why?
As a matter of fact, the primary surgeons are always “experienced master” or “skillful craftman”, their technique-art on critical part of surgery will be favorable to promise “safety and efficiency” of patients when and if next surgery is immediate one. But if not immediate, the frequency of overlapping surgery should be restricted not only to ensure quality of surgery but also to benefit professional promotion for inferior trainees. In addition, conflict of interests may be exposed to public when patient ultimately suffers from surgery-related complications or even fatal consequence. The key to resolve the dilemma is to identify a detailed rule from the beginning of overlapping surgery that the primary surgeon must take charge.
We believe overlapping surgery is reasonable as it allows making most use of flow of higher technology-art in good order. And it shines when it comes to rule of law.