How long is a surgeon responsible for a case?

A surgeon's responsibility for a case extends until the surgery is completed and the patient has had an adequate recovery from anesthesia. This includes ensuring that the patient is stable and that there are no immediate complications that could arise as a result of the surgical procedure. After surgery, the surgeon must monitor the patient's recovery to assess for any post-operative complications or issues that may arise due to anesthesia or the surgery itself.

The focus on recovery from anesthesia is crucial because patients can experience various responses as they regain consciousness, and it is essential to ensure they are stable before handing over their care to other staff or discharging them. This responsibility encompasses not only the immediate surgical outcome but also the patient's initial recovery phase, emphasizing the surgeon's role in ensuring a safe transition from surgery to recovery.