Overcoming pain to bring comfort

Scientific art

Tan has watched thousands of films. He believes his trade resembles cinematic art.

Both require balance.

An anesthesiologist must calculate how drugs will affect heart rate and blood pressure during surgery.

The best aren't only careful and skillful but are also good at communication.

"You need to communicate with the patient before surgery and with the surgeon during the surgery," Tan says.

Tan says the operating theater is like a stage in another theatrical senses. The surgeon, anesthesiologist, nurse and patient play their respective roles.

Tan has perfected his routine over the years. He meticulously checks every detail, such as the placement of equipment and a patient's medication and medical history, before work.

"It's the only way I can quickly determine problems during emergencies," he says.

Cui Yong, an anesthesiologist who has worked with Tan for more than a decade, often talks with him about new drugs and techniques. They share experiences.

"Anesthesiologists need to be in the operating room all day. He also uses his spare time on research," the 48-year-old says.

Cui likens an anesthesiologist's role in surgery to a goalkeeper's in soccer. He needs to save the ball near the goal post sometimes but has to focus on the whole game throughout the match.

Tan has run a WeChat account called Mazui Yishu ("the art of anesthesiology") since 2017 to help the public better understand the medical field.

His writing mostly focuses on his experiences and outlook, and is imbued with literary references and humor.

Tan hopes more people will enter his field.

He dislikes how his profession is portrayed in movies and on TV at home and abroad.

"I hope I can write a film script about anesthesiologists, showing people our real work."

Contact the writer at liyingxue@chinadaily.com.cn