Surgeon Perceptions of Failure to Rescue After Surgery - Report - MDSpire

Surgeon Perceptions of Failure to Rescue After Surgery

  • By

  • Hélène L. Gros

  • Victoria Werdecker

  • Kavishani Gunatharan

  • Ines Gockel

  • Beat P. Müller-Stich

  • Jennifer M. Klasen

  • June 5, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Surgeons' Views on Failure to Rescue in Surgical Outcomes

Overview

This qualitative study explores surgeons' perceptions of failure to rescue (FTR) events, highlighting their experiences and coping strategies.

Background

Failure to rescue (FTR) is a critical quality metric in surgical care, reflecting the ability to manage complications effectively. This study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding how surgeons interpret and cope with FTR events.

Data Highlights

No numerical data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • Surgeons recognized the term FTR but noted its meaning was not entirely clear.
  • Nearly all participants had personally experienced FTR.
  • Participants expressed a desire for improved support and educational resources related to FTR.
  • The study highlighted the potential for morbidity and mortality conferences to facilitate learning.
  • Surgeons reported a culture of silence surrounding FTR.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest a need for enhanced educational frameworks and support systems for surgeons dealing with FTR events. Addressing the culture of silence may improve learning opportunities and resilience among surgical teams.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of understanding surgeons' experiences with FTR to enhance surgical education and outcomes. Further exploration of cultural and educational supports is warranted.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery, 2026 -- Predictors of failure to rescue in surgical rescue
  2. Challenges in Managing Complications After Major Abdominal Surgery: Insights from a Regional Australian Study, 2023
  3. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, 2008 -- A Surgeon’s Journey: Reflections Over Four Decades
  4. The ASCO Post, 2023 -- Surgeon Quality Metrics and Survival After Curative-Intent Surgery for NSCLC
  5. Patient Safety Indicators (PSI) Benchmark Data Tables, v2025
  6. Variation in the definition of ‘failure to rescue’ from postoperative complications: a systematic review and recommendations for outcome reporting, 2023
  7. The effect of early warning scoring systems on adverse outcome in surgical patients: A systematic review, 2024
  8. Patient Safety Indicators (PSI) Benchmark Data Tables, v2025
  9. Variation in the definition of ‘failure to rescue’ from postoperative complications: a systematic review and recommendations for outcome reporting - ScienceDirect
  10. The effect of early warning scoring systems on adverse outcome in surgical patients: A systematic review - ScienceDirect

Original Source(s)

Related Content