Women in neurosurgery.

摘要: More than 2 centuries ago our nation was founded on the political and moral principles of equality—equal votes, equal rights, opportunities. The principle ity an ideal not immediately achieved; even founders’ vision had to expand over time so that its po tential could be realized include all citizens. progress toward equality has been halting uneven marred by conflict (sometimes violent), hope disappointed, promise denied. Yet despite prejudicial cultural barriers, we have come a remarkable distance road equality. Gender, racial, ethnic barriers gradually eroded, though they are nowhere fully demolished. struggle reach elusive continues. Women comprise more half medical school class attendees today, yet only account for 10% neurosurgical residents 6% practicing neurosurgeons. Res ipsa loquitur. may neither obvious nor acknowledged, but exist. A large proportion applicant pool is excluded lingering fences prejudice discrimination through which can best break exposing helping those blocked cross them. discipline neurosurgery never attracted overwhelming numbers. Of 16,000 graduating students, 300 (2%) apply 180 residency positions available, number diminished from 400 in 1990s.1 Neurosurgery attracts unique individuals willing learn complex esoteric anatomy, endure long years difficult training, treat high-risk neurological conditions, challenging surgical procedures, accept profound responsibility, face extraordinary levels liability. It will haven timid. However, rigor training or practice does justify arbitrary women entering advancing within specialty. We cannot afford failure attract brightest most talented when subtle deniable discrimination. discourage rewards accomplishment block ascension leadership authority specialty ignoring condoning discrimination, no matter how disguised, without stunting growth or, importantly, unfairly depriving potential members entitlement opportunity. American Association Neurological Surgeons Board Directors requested “White Paper Recruitment Retention Neurosurgery” because believe fairness fundamentally right vital future success evolving In recognition findings this report, acknowledge need active measures ensure every neurosurgeon enjoys same benefits opportunities dismantling offering hand across remaining gulfs separate privileged deserving. (DOI: 10.3171/JNS/2008/ 109/9/0377)