October 5, 2023

Question:
When acting as an assistant surgeon, should I dictate a separate operative note?

Answer:
No.  In a scenario with a primary and  assistant surgeon, only the primary surgical dictates the operative note. Importantly, in that note, the specific role of the assistant must be documented. This should be more specific then, Dr. Jones assisted in a complex surgery. The specific   activities performed must be documented.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 10/5/23.