Improving surgical performance by applying strategies from professional sports

Surgeons as High-Performance Athletes: Applying Player Development Strategies from Professional Sport to Enhance Surgical Performance

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11131222

This study is looking at how using training methods from professional sports can help surgeons perform better during heart surgeries, with the goal of making surgeries safer and improving recovery for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11131222 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how techniques used in professional sports can enhance the performance of surgeons during high-risk cardiothoracic surgeries. By analyzing both technical and non-technical skills, the study aims to develop a structured approach to monitor and improve surgical performance over time. The methodology includes data-driven analytics and performance parameters similar to those used by athletes, focusing on real-world surgical challenges. This approach seeks to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes in surgical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients aged 21 and older who are scheduled for cardiothoracic surgical procedures.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing cardiothoracic surgery or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer surgical procedures and better recovery outcomes for patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches in other fields, such as professional sports, have shown success in enhancing performance, suggesting potential for this novel application in surgery.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.