Some things vascular surgeons should know that they don’t learn in training
One must also be aware that nothing elicits hostility like success. If a young vascular surgeon/specialist has introduced a new technique or is particularly charming and hard-working and therefore has a booming practice, rest assured that his or her competitors – or even non-competitors – will be covertly or overtly hostile and take every opportunity to damage or bring down the successful individual. It does not matter that the hostility is unjustified and based on jealousy. It can still be unfairly damaging. All should realize that jealousy and greed are among the most powerful motivators of human behavior.
In view of all these considerations, it is apparent that all vascular surgeons, especially talented and successful ones, will at various times in their careers face battles. All cannot be fought. So one has to decide which ones should be avoided and which ones to engage in. Battles to fight should be picked carefully because they will consume energy and leave scars, no matter the outcome.
Most battles are best avoided unless victory is certain. Multiple simultaneous battles should be avoided. Battles in which one faces numerous opponents at the same time should also be shunned. Ideally in unavoidable conflicts, one should have as many allies as possible, although the loyalty of allies cannot always be counted on. Self-interest will determine the loyalty of presumed allies.
Never underestimate enemies, or overestimate allies. If the outcome of a battle is uncertain or to be determined by a board or other group, know how that group will vote before taking on the fight. Always remember the role of jealousy and greed in determining human behavior in battle. Defeated opponents do not forget and are forever dangerous.
Time is a vascular surgeon’s most important asset. Anything that one can do to enlist others to protect or expand this time is helpful. To this end, loyal nurses, physician’s assistants, or nonprofessional associates are invaluable. Their loyalty, which must be reciprocated, can be earned by recognizing their contributions and rewarding them intellectually and financially. This mutual loyalty is essential to success in practice and in the inevitable conflicts that will occur.
All these concepts and many others are not covered in medical school or residency training. Yet all are important in a vascular surgery career, whether it be in a practice or academic setting. Human nature is a constant and its elements may often work against one’s success. Being aware of some of these often noxious and little discussed elements will hopefully enable vascular surgeons to cope with them better and ultimately survive in what can be a difficult environment.
Dr. Veith is professor of surgery at New York University Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic and an associate medical editor for Vascular Specialist.
The ideas and opinions expressed in Vascular Specialist do not necessarily reflect those of the Society or publisher.
