Tamara Braunschmid

Research has always been an important part of my interests because it allows the detailed discussion of an initially new topic. Asking scientific questions and trying to find answers always goes hand in hand with benefiting from seeing things from a new perspective.

Tamara Braunschmid, MD, is currently working at the Department of Surgery at Klinik Floridsdorf in Vienna, Austria.

Tamara Braunschmid, MD, specialized in General and Visceral Surgery at the Medical University of Vienna and is currently working at the Department of Surgery at Klinik Floridsdorf in Vienna, Austria. In addition to her surgical work, she serves as an emergency doctor for the Professional Rescue Service Vienna.

Dr. Braunschmid graduated from the Medical University of Vienna and completed her specialist training at the University Clinics of Surgery at the same institution. Throughout her studies, she was actively involved in various scientific projects and continued her clinical research during her training. She established several databases and started a PhD, which she is currently completing. Although her primary focus is surgery, Dr. Braunschmid has always been enthusiastic about interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine.

Her recent research, titled “Prevalence and long-term implications of preoperative anemia in patients undergoing elective general surgery: a retrospective cohort study at a university hospital”, highlights the importance of addressing preoperative anemia and its long-term effects on patient outcomes. This study underscores the value of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in improving patient care.

Preoperative anemia and its impact on postoperative outcomes

Dr. Braunschmid's recent research, “Prevalence and long-term implications of preoperative anemia in patients undergoing elective general surgery: a retrospective cohort study at a university hospital”, highlights the crucial role of interdisciplinary collaboration in patient care. The study was conducted in cooperation with the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, emphasizing the importance of utilizing "big data" in modern medicine.

The research primarily focused on the prevalence of anemia in surgical patients and its impact on both short-term and long-term postoperative outcomes. The study found that preoperative anemia is common among patients undergoing elective surgery and significantly increases the risk of adverse postoperative events. This is a key finding as anemia is a modifiable risk factor. The results contribute to the growing awareness of the negative effects of preoperative anemia on perioperative morbidity and mortality. The study also suggests that addressing anemia prior to surgery could potentially improve patient outcomes in elective procedures.

While the association between anemia and increased perioperative risks is not new, this study is important for its investigation of a large patient population. It reinforces the often-underestimated problem of anemia in daily clinical practice. The paper, with first authorship, was published in a highly ranked journal and presents valuable insights into improving patient care through better management of anemia before surgery.

A passion for research and patient care

Dr. Braunschmid has always been passionate about research as it provides the opportunity to explore new topics in depth and approach problems from a fresh perspective. Her interest in the medical field was driven by the desire to support people through difficult health situations and provide help where it is most needed. 

Although she had no relatives in the medical profession, the motivation to become a doctor was clear from an early age. The ability to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives, coupled with the collaborative nature of interdisciplinary care, has been a powerful driver in her career. Throughout her journey, she has remained committed to exploring complex cases and enhancing patient care through teamwork and scientific inquiry.