Extension of Medical Decision-making Connecting ‘Spiritual Intelligence’

Abstract

Abstract

Undue postoperative pain and suffering can often be minimized if a surgeon incorporates conscientious compassion and integrates spiritual intelligence, commonly referred to as SQ.

SQ is considered the “ultimate” intelligence and underpins the effective functioning of both Intellectual (IQ) and Emotional (EQ) intelligence. It is not about being ‘religious,’ but is supported by recent neurological and psychological research [1]. SQ's potential to enable creativity, reframe situations, and combine multiple forms of intelligence can significantly enhance clinical decision-making at critical moments. In this context, SQ opens new avenues of conscience and compassion, guided by wisdom that transcends self-centered experiences.

This article presents a case in which the author, both a physician and a patient, experienced severe postoperative complications unexpectedly following classical direct inguinal hernia repair one year apart by two reputable general surgeons. A simple, yet overlooked step—ensuring thoughtful and thorough desufflation(deflation) of CO₂ from both extraperitoneal and ‘intraperitoneal’ spaces, if suspected, could have minimized or prevented much of the distress, if conscientious compassion had ever been utilized at the right moment. This case underscores SQ’s potential to improve outcomes through empathetic, meticulous decision-making beyond ‘standard’ expertise and highlights the crucial role of painstaking care in preventing avoidable suffering. It would reassure the expert audience of the importance of their practices.