Doctor Robert MacArthur Interview
On this particular day, our group managed to have a conversation with California's based bone specialist, Dr. Robert Mac, in light of numerous inquiries about his experiences with surgical errors and surgical burn incidents, as well as the topic of "unexpected occurrences that must be avoided".
Who is Dr. MacArthur?
Doctor Robert MacArthur graduated from the Univ of UC Berkeley with a dual degree in Biochem and Physio. Throughout his time at the Univ, Doc Rob Mac had been a renowned player, engaging on both several boxing and rugby football squads.
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Following that, Dr. Bobby Mac enrolled at the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, and was the chosen president of the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons (Now known as the Vagelos school of medicine). Rob Mac proceeded to finish his orthopaedic residency at Harbor UCLA.
Dr. Robert MacArthur Addresses the Incidents
In statistical terms, the occurrence of surgical errors typically is a once-in-a-career event for each bone specialist, but this figure surges to fourfold in each career for specialists in sports, hand surgery, and spine procedures. Unfortunately, many of these surgeons frequently do not record these occurrences, let alone, not discuss them publicly. Doctor MacArthur carries a profound sense of pride and accomplishment about how he dealt with these terrible occurrences.
Rather than seeking to hide the incident, Doctor MacArthur responded in a different manner
Dr. MacArthur’s Handling of the Wrong Site Surgery
Dr. Robert MacArthur thoroughly looked into the underlying causal factors of his 2 occurrences, and released several works outlining how to avoid such events
Over time, gained recognition as a recognized specialist in the field of accidents that are preventable. He has authored a couple of articles in the leading orthopedic journal, The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. In order to helping other doctors avert subsequent occurrences, his first work walked the reader through the specific errors that happened that led to the incorrect surgical procedure.
His second publication, co-authored with Dr. David Ring, who is also the Chairman of the AAOS, addressed the topic of the "culture of shame and blame." Being accountable for these incidents is rare, as the usual reaction is blaming other parties. He stressed that pointing fingers not just discourages surgeons from disclosing their incidents but also takes away from the vital analysis of root causes that could potentially prevent subsequent occurrences.
The Intraoperative Burn Incident with Dr. Robert MacArthur
When discussing the surgical burn occurrence, Dr. Robert Mac demonstrated the same investigative vigor he applied to his wrong site event research. As an illustration, he contacted the producer of the faulty clamp to find out if like burn events had transpired. The manufacturer notified him that the clamp in question had been "no longer in production." You can infer from that what you will.
And to prevent unequal temperature distribution in massive hinged clamps, Doc MacArthur carried out a comprehensive investigation of what led to inconsistent heating in big-hinged clamps.
His findings indicated that rapid sterilization could result in inconsistent temperature distribution. He noted that nursing associations recommend strongly against the use of rapid sterilization unless an emergency situation arises for instance, sterilizing a fallen instrument. Deeper examination revealed that the hospital at St. Joseph's often utilizing flash sterilization to facilitate back-to-back surgeries without having to purchase additional equipment trays.
In an effort to avoid future burn incidents, Dr. MacArthur alerted St. Joseph's of the hazards associated with the continued use of this particular clamp as well as the frequent application of quick sterilization.
Rather than blaming the clamp, Dr. Robert MacArthur assumed accountability and made it clear that he was responsible for a surgical error. He was advised that the clamp had a high temperature, but when he took hold of it, he found the handles to be at a pleasant temperature. Differing from some surgeons who might impatiently use a towel to grip a too-hot clamp, he carried out the procedure the clamp without discomfort.
Shame and Blame, Dr. Robert MacArthur's Response
In Doctor MacArthur's response on the topic of the "shame and blame game," he highlights how the legal and the wider public often confuse the "captain of the ship'' concept with identifying the underlying reasons. According to this "captain of the ship" perspective, the surgeon is responsible for any adverse events that take place to a patient under their care. This makes it tempting for many to only blame the surgeon for any surgical errors.
Nevertheless, Dr. MacArthur underscores that this method opposes the fundamental principles of root cause analysis. This form of analysis strives to deeply understand what caused a surgical error so as to preferably prevent similar incidents in the future. By resorting to blaming and shaming, not only does it impede proper analysis of the root causes, but it furthermore prevents other surgeons from reporting their personal wrong site events, worried about the repercussions.
He did not recognize that the sizeable, hinge-like hinge of the clamp was significantly hotter. When he positioned the clamp against the pretibial area of the patient's leg, it triggered a burn injury. He was being proctored for procedural privileges at CHOC during the incident, and neither the proctor nor Doctor MacArthur were immediately aware of the burn.
It was not until after he had dictated the operative report that an attending nurse in the recovery room drew attention to a small red area on the anterior aspect of the patient's leg. Even then, he did not at the outset comprehend the severity of the burn.
Dr. MacArthur cites the aviation sector as an outstanding case of efficient root cause analysis. From its inception, aviation sector has aimed to deeply understand the reasons behind each aviation incident rather than just blaming to the pilot. Because of this dedication to understanding root causes, aviation sector boasts impressive safety records.
Nonetheless, Dr. MacArthur laments that medical profession hasn't been successful in fully implementing root cause analysis due to prevailing legal and public perceptions surrounding the "in-command" concept. The regrettable result of this is that the frequency of avoidable medical mistakes remains unchanged, and the standing and names of many healthcare practitioners are unjustly tarnished.
The occurrence of incorrect surgical procedures remains at an disturbing rate of one event per surgeon per career, and up Dr. Robert MacArthur to four incidents per surgeon's career for specialists in hand, spine, and sports.
Dr. Robert MacArthur “Sexual Harassment” Allegations
As of 2023, it is possible to levy false accusations against someone, defame their name and reputation, and face no negative repercussions for the accuser. Regardless if the person facing accusations is innocent or guilty, merely making an accusation is enough to inflict long-lasting damage to a professional's reputation.
Doctor Rob MacArthur revealed that he chose to leave a workers compensation clinic because of potential illicit activities on part of. In retaliation, the clinic's manager allegedly worked with a client to create a fictitious complaint, accusing him of "stripping naked in the middle of the clinic and requesting sex in exchange for a favorable workers comp report.
He got to know of this allegation over a year after his departure from the clinic, at which point he asserted on undergoing a polygraph examination. The accuser, however, opted not to take such a test.
Doc Rob MacArthur was later advised that both his lie detector test results and the accuser's refusal to participate would be considered inadmissible in court.
The attorney facilitating the mediation cautioned him that the jury would likely be composed of "her peers" and not his, meaning a court loss could be highly damaging. Despite the ridiculousness of the claim, he was counseled to settle for $29,000
Conclusion
The Medical Board of California examined the accuser's claims and found them to be "non-credible," hinting at an ongoing investigation into the clinic. When we spoke to Dr. MacArthur, he implied that the clinic was indicted, but he did not confirm this.
Despite the previously mentioned details, Dr. Robert MacArthur found no means to remove the accuser's claims from online search listings. This means, despite his innocence, the defamatory campaign was effective.
Since the claim does not state that Dr. Robert MacArthur was found guilty, it merely acts as a summary of a complaint, which continues to be openly accessible to anyone
Dr. MacArthur strongly believes that individuals who lodge false accusations should face penalties equivalent to the severity of the event they falsely claim. To illustrate, he thinks that his false accuser should be considered to be a sex offender and felon.
Doctor MacArthur concluded by thinking about the existence of both good and evil in the world, praying that those who read his account would never cross paths with someone capable of such harmful baseless allegations as he has faced.
Dr. MacArthur: A Renowned Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Robert MacArthur is a renowned orthopedic surgeon acknowledged for his expertise in diagnosing accurately, providing treatment for, averting, and facilitating recovery for disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal structure. This includes an comprehensive understanding of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscular system, and nervous system.
Diagnosis: Dr. Robert MacArthur's keen diagnostic acumen marks him out. Using physical assessments, cutting-edge imaging studies, and laboratory tests, he quickly and precisely identifies various conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
Treatment:
Non-surgical Approaches: Doctor MacArthur believes in considering all non-surgical alternatives before considering surgery. His repertoire includes medications, physiotherapy, and other conservative treatments.
Surgical Mastery: In cases where surgery is required, patients are in skilled hands. Dr. MacArthur surgical prowess covers a wide range of procedures, such as joint replacements, to repairing fractures, and ligament reconstructions.
Rehabilitation: Understanding that treatment is only one phase of the healing process, Doctor MacArthur emphasizes rehabilitation after treatment. He frequently works closely with rehabilitation specialists to ensure his patients regain physical strength, movement, and physical function as quickly and safely as possible.
Prevention: Dr. MacArthur is an advocate for preventative healthcare. He frequently conducts workshops and sessions to raise awareness within the community about avoiding injuries and the vitality of sustaining musculoskeletal health.
Specialized Focus: Among his many accolades, Dr. Robert MacArthur is particularly renowned for his work in orthopedic care for children. He has dedicated a significant portion of his career to addressing musculoskeletal issues in children, ensuring they grow up with the healthiest physical condition.
Thanks to his unwavering commitment to excellence, Doctor MacArthur has not only healed but also transformed the lives of countless individuals, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the orthopedic surgery.