Questão 67

Most thoughtful individuals would agree that there is a
divergence between chronological age and objective
levels of intellectual and technical surgical
performance. As one considers the proper parameters
[5] of competence and who should measure them, it
should be emphasized that the definition of
professionalism is that the patient’s well-being must
remain paramount to that of the surgeon. As with most
biological functions, there is a bell-shaped curve of
[10] competence that embraces the physical, cognitive,
emotional, and psychomotor skills and the ocular
realms. Fortunately, objective methods to measure
these functions within the medical field are widely
available.

[15] The physical parameters of strength, coordination and
vision peak during the third decade of surgical practice
and then diminish at a variable rate. As the human
visual system ages, the lens and cornea begin to
opacify and increased light is needed for proper
[20] visualization.

The Orthopaedic Forum. In: The Journal on Bone and Joint Surgery – JBJS. Vol.92, Nr. 8. July 21, 2010.

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