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Global Perspectives on Burnout in Plastic Surgery Residency: What Can We Learn from Our International Colleagues?
Tobi J. Somorin, BS, Sophie Queler, BS, Adrianna Duncan, BS, Janina Kueper, MD, Ashley Rogers, MD, Jesse A. Goldstein, MD.
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
2025-01-10
Presenter: Tobi J. Somorin
Affidavit:
The entirety of this submission is the original research of the research team.
Director Name: Jesse A. Goldstein
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Introduction: Plastic surgery residency (PSR) is renowned for its intensity, demanding not only surgical skill but resilience against unique physical, mental, and emotional challenges. This review aims to synthesize international data on trainee burnout rates and identify actionable strategies that can be adapted from various global practices to mitigate burnout.
Methods: Search terms relating to burnout in plastic surgery were queried in PubMed. Inclusion criteria were articles relevant to burnout in PSR published in the last 10 years. Exclusion criteria involved articles not utilizing the validated measure, Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Service Survey, to identify burnout rates.
Results: Our search terms resulted in 154 articles, 20 met inclusion. In the United States, 65.5% of plastic surgery (PS) residents report moderate to high burnout rates, emphasizing the importance of frequent mental health check-ins to mitigate burnout. In the United Kingdom, 17% of PS residents experience similar levels of burnout, citing close mentorship from senior attendings as a key protective factor. In France, 33% of PS residents report moderate to high burnout rates, identifying regular staff meetings and recognition of personal accomplishments as effective measures against burnout. Meanwhile, in India, 48% of PS residents report moderate to high burnout rates, with the pursuit of hobbies and regular exercise highlighted as significant protective factors.
Discussion: Our findings reveal persistent burnout in PSR worldwide, with diverse approaches to prevention and management. Learning from global wellness models can offer fresh perspectives and adaptable solutions to improve the well-being of PS residents and enhance patient care.
