====== Excellence ======

The [[quality]] of being outstanding.

[[Neurosurgeon]]s are often identified with traits such as [[arrogance]] and hubris. However, the true legacy of neurosurgeons is [[excellence]]. [[Harvey Williams Cushing]], the pioneering neurosurgeon of the United States, is largely responsible for this legacy of excellence. Eminent personalities have agreed that sincere and hard work is necessary to achieve excellence. 

Excellence in surgical work should be measured comprehensively and over long follow-up periods using tools such as [[functional outcome]]s and quality of life instruments besides [[morbidity]] and [[mortality]]. For excellence in neurosurgical research, one can use the help of indices such as the [[h index]] and 
[[i10 -index]]. No single measure, whether for surgical excellence or excellence in research, however, incorporates a measure of qualities such as [[empathy]], [[integrity]], and [[mentorship]]. These intangible qualities should be an integral part of the assessment of a neurosurgeon and his/her work. Cushing's attributes of meticulous record-keeping, attention to detail, and maximal utilization of opportunities should guide us in our pursuit of excellence. In recent years, it has been suggested that excellence is not the result of innate talent but can be aspired to by anyone willing to adopt a work ethic that involves several hours of "deliberate practice," feedback, and passion. Neurosurgeons should continue to pursue the legacy of Cushing especially in present times when medical professionals are frequently depicted as being driven more by avarice than by Hippocratic principles
((Rajshekhar V. Neurosurgery: A legacy of excellence. Neurol India. 2015
Jul-Aug;63(4):468-75. doi: 10.4103/0028-3886.161966. PubMed PMID: 26238874.
)).

===== Center of excellence =====

[[Center of excellence]]