Many people may think that the importance of surgery begins with the surgeon’s hands or the techniques used during the operation. But in reality…every successful surgery begins before the scalpel is ever picked up.
What you see may appear ordinary—hand washing , putting on sterile gowns, checking instruments on the surgical table —but for me, this is one of the moments that requires the greatest focus and intention.
Before every surgery, especially long procedures lasting 6–8 hours ,it is not only the surgeon’s physical readiness that matters. We must also ensure the readiness of the team and every single piece of equipment.
The operating lights must be positioned to avoid shadows Surgical cameras must be clear, with no glare The operating table must support proper posture for both surgeon and assistants. Key instruments must be placed where they can be reached without even looking.
Including small details that are often overlooked—such as absorbent pads, surgical glue , or specialized sutures. Because even the slightest interruption can immediately affect the flow of the procedure and ultimately, the patient’s outcome.
I often remind my team: “The best surgery is one where everyone is fully prepared.”
No matter how much experience we have, if the body is not ready, the mind is not calm, or the equipment is incomplete, small mistakes can easily occur.
For me,the happiness of being a surgeonis not only found in seeing the postoperative results. It begins in those quiet moments before we start— when we double-check everything, exchange a reassuring look with the team, and set the intention in our hearts: “This case will be the very best we can possibly deliver.”
Under the surgical lights…surgery never truly begins when the hand holds the scalpel. It begins with a ready heart and attention to the small details we never overlook
With love ❤️ Dr. Jay Crafting Confidence with Care
