Game theory: applications for surgeons and the operating room environment.

BACKGROUND: Game theory is an economic system of strategic behavior, often referred to as the "theory of social situations." Very little has been written in the medical literature about game theory or its applications, yet the practice of surgery and the operating room environment clearly involves multiple social situations with both cooperative and non-cooperative behaviors.
METHODS: A comprehensive review was performed of the medical literature on game theory and its medical applications. Definitive resources on the subject were also examined and applied to surgery and the operating room whenever possible.
RESULTS: Applications of game theory and its proposed dilemmas abound in the practicing surgeon's world, especially in the operating room environment.
CONCLUSION: The surgeon with a basic understanding of game theory principles is better prepared for understanding and navigating the complex Operating Room system and optimizing cooperative behaviors for the benefit all stakeholders.