Embrace discomfort, use every avenue of training before implementing new techniques
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NEW YORK — Before introducing a new technique or piece of technology, surgeons should prepare for all possible outcomes, according to one speaker here.
“I think we’re really lucky because we’re in a specialty that’s really continually evolving, and it seems to be at an exponential rate,” Mitchell P. Weikert, MD, said during a presentation at OSN New York. “It keeps our life interesting and invested in our profession, but it can be stressful.”
Weikert shared a “common sense approach” for introducing new techniques and technologies. First, physicians must embrace discomfort when deciding to introduce something new.
“We need to adapt. It’s just necessary for our careers,” Weikert said.
Physicians also need to employ some introspection.
“It helps to be a little bit introspective. Are you an early adopter, or do you prefer things to be well established?” he said. Be aware of being left behind and immobilized by analysis paralysis.
Next, Weikert said it is important to use online resources such as PubMed, YouTube and professional society websites to learn everything possible about the technique or technology.
“Education is really key. It’s not only going to help you communicate with your patients, but it’s also going to give you confidence,” Weikert said. “Don’t only pay attention to the courses that tell you how to do something, but you want the courses that tell you how to get out of the inevitable problems that are going to happen.”
A business plan should be developed before officially beginning a new procedure, and surgeons should ensure it makes economic sense.
After deciding how the technique fits into the practice, take advantage of all available training and practice materials.
“Oftentimes, there is required industry training,” Weikert said.
Additionally, make use of wet and dry labs to practice procedures. Before performing a procedure for the first time, surgeons should reach out to colleagues for advice and work through every possible situation.
Finally, be open and honest with patients who are undergoing the procedure.
“If it’s something new, discuss with them the traditional vs. your new approach,” Weikert said. Topics such as safety, risks and possible plans of action in case something goes wrong should be addressed.
“It helps you build trust with them,” Weikert said.
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Weikert MP. How do I implement new techniques and technology before I know if they work? Presented at: OSN New York and OSN New York Retina; Oct. 15-17, 2021; New York.
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