Surgery with compassion: A potential shift in surgical paradigms

Abstract

Modern surgical advances have improved outcomes, yet compassion remains underemphasized in surgical practice. There is ample evidence demonstrating the benefits of compassionate care for both providers and patients. The “Surgery with Compassion” initiative aims to incorporate this essential quality into surgical practice. As part of this concept, we developed the “Surgical Compassion Pause,” a brief, intentional moment of reflection introduced just after the Time Out procedure. It is centered on both the patient and the surgical team and is based on the “4 C’s”—Conscious Awareness, Courage, Commitment to Purpose, and Caring Connections—which together create a safe and meaningful operating room environment. This pause strengthens team bonds and provides reassurance to patients and families. We propose that, when combined with broader compassion training, it creates lasting, positive impacts for everyone involved.