Laterality and otorhinolaryngology: a review.

BACKGROUND

Laterality of paired organs involves the function of the eyes, ears, hands and feet. Whilst most people have a right-handed preference, about 10 per cent are left-handed. Similarly, the right eye is usually preferred to the left. Medicine is both taught and practised for those with right hand and eye preference, and left-handed medical students and doctors must negotiate the right-handed world.

OBJECTIVE

This brief review looks at society's attitudes, medical training and the practice of otolaryngology in the UK towards laterality and handedness.

METHOD

Literature review.

RESULTS

Studies suggest that left-handers are more versatile and so are more ambidextrous. Conversely, this may result in problems when a right-hander tries to undertake a procedure with the non-dominant hand.

CONCLUSION

Cultures and attitudes are changing towards those who are left-handed. Left-handed surgeons may encounter difficulties in the clinical environment throughout their training.