UK researcher develops roadmap to strengthen surgical teamwork and patient safety

New research from University of Kentucky College of Medicine faculty member Helen Wei, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor in acute care surgery, trauma and surgical critical care, is shedding light on the working relationship between surgeons and anesthesiologists. It’s a critical but often overlooked factor in patient care.

Wei contributed to two recently published studies in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons. The first study, “Surgeon and anesthesiologist perceptions and expectations of each other: Implications for improving collaboration,” examined how surgical and anesthesia teams work together in the operating room. The second study, “Toolkit to promote collaboration between surgeons and anesthesiologists: Addressing common barriers to perioperative teamwork,” identified practical strategies to improve collaboration.

“The research team believed the perioperative team members were vital to patient outcomes and realized that there was very little research performed on perioperative relationships, including the relationship between the surgeon and anesthesiologist,” Wei said.

The studies are based on in-depth interviews with 40 surgeons and anesthesiologists from 24 states and provide one of the most comprehensive looks at the interpersonal and system-level factors that influence teamwork during surgical care.

The first study explored how surgeons and anesthesiologists perceive one another and what they expect from their colleagues.

Researchers found that although both groups share common goals centered on patient care, they often hold unspoken assumptions and unmet expectations that can create tension and affect collaboration. Surgeons emphasized engagement, continuity and shared ownership of patient care, and anesthesiologists highlighted the need for professional respect and recognition of their expertise.

“Strong teamwork in the operating room is essential for safe, effective patient care,” Wei said. “By better understanding where communication gaps originate, we can identify opportunities to strengthen professional relationships and improve outcomes for patients.”

Building on those findings, the second study identified seven common barriers to effective collaboration, including communication challenges, differences in professional identity, interpersonal dynamics and system-level issues. Researchers also uncovered practical strategies used by high-functioning teams to overcome those barriers.

Those strategies were organized into a clinician-focused toolkit designed to promote stronger collaboration throughout the perioperative process. Recommendations include early discussions before procedures, clear communication during operations, relationship-building practices such as personal introductions, and fostering a culture of mutual respect, trust and shared accountability.

The researchers found that deliberate communication and relationship-building can help teams navigate challenges, rebuild trust when disagreements occur and ultimately support safer surgical care.

Although the research focuses on surgeon-anesthesiologist relationships, Wei says the lessons extend beyond the operating room.

“Healthcare increasingly depends on multidisciplinary teams,” Wei said. “These findings highlight the importance of communication, respect and collaboration across specialties. When clinicians work together effectively, patients benefit.”

The studies provide actionable guidance for hospitals, health systems and clinical teams seeking to strengthen teamwork and advance patient safety initiatives. By turning qualitative insights into practical recommendations, the work offers a framework for improving collaboration in one of healthcare’s most demanding environments.