Assessing surgeon stress when operating using heart rate variability and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory: will surgery be the death of us?

Abstract

This study demonstrates a significant increase in sympathetic tone in consultant surgeons measured using heart rate variability during elective colorectal resections. A significant correlation can be demonstrated between HRV measurements and perceived stress using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory. A combined approach to assessing operative stress is required to evaluate any effect on performance and outcomes.