Beyond the operating room – professional burnout among neurosurgeons

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout syndrome is an increasing psychosocial phenomenon associated with chronic stress in the professional environment. It consists of three main components: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. The medical profession, especially neurosurgery, is highly vulnerable to burnout. The syndrome often begins during medical training and has serious consequences for specialists’ health and patient care quality. A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed with keywords like "burnout" and "neurosurgery" focusing on recent publications to present an updated overview. The prevalence of burnout among neurosurgeons varies widely across countries and studies, ranging from about 27% to over 70%. Key risk factors include high workload, on-call duties, administrative stress, and poor work–life balance. Some studies report high job satisfaction despite burnout. Tools such as the Maslach Burnout Inventory and Copenhagen Burnout Inventory are commonly used to measure burnout. Burnout in neurosurgeons is a complex issue requiring a multidisciplinary approach for prevention and intervention. Organizational changes, social support, and individual coping strategies are essential. Psychological resilience and training also play crucial roles. Conclusion: Burnout among neurosurgeons is a significant challenge requiring comprehensive and systemic strategies to mitigate its negative impact on both specialists and the healthcare system.