Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional behaviors that may occur in verbal, nonverbal, or environmental forms and communicate negative or demeaning messages toward individuals belonging to marginalized social groups. This study aims to estimate the frequency with which female Saudi orthopedic surgeons experience microaggressions. This online cross-sectional study focused on female orthopedic surgeons from different regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was created using Google Forms and circulated through social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp by trained data collectors.
A total of 96 female Saudi orthopedic surgeons participated in the survey. The mean age was 27.46 ± 12.20 years. Most participants were either residents (52.63%) or specialists (23.16%). The majority (92.63%) were still in training or in early career stages, and most (93.68%) completed their residency within Saudi Arabia. Nearly three-fifths (61.05%) reported being exposed to microaggressions as targets, while 76.84% did not consider themselves to have engaged in such behavior; however, 23.16% admitted having done so. Patients or their relatives were identified as involved in 43.16% of cases. Male surgeons and male support staff were reported in 51.58% and 23.16% of incidents, respectively. In addition, other male physicians were implicated in 33.68% of cases. Female surgeons were reported as involved in 22.11% of incidents, whereas female support staff accounted for 29.47%. These findings may support the development of interventions to enhance inclusivity and support within orthopedic surgery, ultimately encouraging healthier professional interactions and fairer opportunities for all practitioners.
