Gender-Related Microaggressions in Orthopedic Surgery: A Comprehensive Survey of Women Orthopedists and Implications for Progress, Saudi Arabia

Background: Microaggressions are subtle and often unintentional acts that can be verbal, nonverbal, or environmental, and they convey negative messages to individuals belonging to marginalized social groups. This study aims to determine the prevalence of microaggressions experienced by female Saudi orthopaedic surgeons. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted online and targeted female in orthopedic surgery across different regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The survey was uploaded to Google Forms and distributed through social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp by well-trained data collectors. Results: In this survey we included 96 female Saudi orthopedics. Their mean age was 27.46 +/- 12.20 years. Most respondents were either residents (52.63%), or specialists (23.16%). Most participants (92.63%) were still in training or early in their careers, with the vast majority (93.68%) had their residency in Saudi Arabia. Nearly three-fifths (61.05%) have reported experiencing microaggressions as victims, 76.84%, did not see themselves as perpetrators of microaggressions, 23.16% acknowledged having engaged in such behavior. Patients or their families were reported to be involved in microaggressions in 43.16% of cases, while male surgeons and male support staff were implicated at 51.58% and 23.16%, respectively. Additionally, other male medical doctors participate in microaggressions in 33.68% of instances. Female surgeons were identified as being involved in 22.11% of microaggressions, whereas 29.47% involve female support staff. Conclusion: The study's outcomes can help inform strategies to promote a supportive and inclusive environment within the field of orthopaedic surgery, encouraging positive interactions and equitable opportunities for all practitioners.