Burnout syndrome among surgeons in orthopaedics and traumatology

Abstract

In numerous medical domains and across all stages of medical education and practice, there are instances of burnout, depression, contemplation of self-injury, and dissatisfaction with the equilibrium between work and personal life. Burnout is typified by a gradual deterioration in emotional, attitudinal, and physical wellness. Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout may perceive patients as mere objects and undergo a profound emotional void. This is marked by a diminished enthusiasm for work (emotional exhaustion), a feeling of detachment (depersonalization), and a diminished sense of personal gratification. An extensive investigation into emotional burnout across various medical disciplines highlights orthopaedic surgery as one of the fields with the highest incidence of burnout. Evaluating the workload and work atmosphere presents avenues for mitigating stressors associated with burnout. Deliberating on specific psychological elements like emotional intelligence, resilience, and mindfulness could prove efficacious in mitigating burnout. Addressing both physical and mental well-being is imperative in alleviating burnout. The elevated prevalence of burnout among orthopaedic surgeons may necessitate the enforcement of preemptive measures at different levels, encompassing institutional and governmental realms.