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Pain experienced by surgeons
Nearly eighty percent described pains on a regular basis. Posture was the most common cause of pain (46%), followed by the use of microscopes or surgical instruments (21%), then the use of surgical loupes or head-mounted lights (11%). Instruments that were particularly mentioned included scissors, needle holders, forceps, endoscopes, retractors and microdebriders.
While operating
The operating theatre can be a dreaded experience not only for the patient but also occasionally for the surgeon. We sought to investigate the prevalence of pain experienced by surgeons while operating.
Forced to take a break
In our study, nearly forty three percent of the surgeons reported that pain was severe enough to force them to take a break from operating. Surgeons reported that they take regular breaks and sick leave in direct relation to pain experienced as a result of operating.
Discomfort
Surgery can often involve operating continuously for prolonged periods, frequently while standing, and operating on areas that are not easily accessible there requiring the surgeon to assume positions that may not be particularly comfortable.
Surgical Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Pain in Arthroplasty Surgeons
Published:June 25, 2021DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arth.2021.06.026
Background
One occupational hazard inherent to total joint replacement surgeons is procedural-related musculoskeletal pain (MSP). The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of work-related MSP among arthroplasty surgeons and analyze associated behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs toward surgical ergonomics.
Methods
A survey was sent to members of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons. The survey included 3 main sections: demographics, symptoms by body part, and attitudes/beliefs/behaviors regarding surgical ergonomics. Pain was reported using the Numeric Rating Scale (0 = no pain, 10 = maximum pain), and well-being was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory.
Results
In total, 586 surgeons completed the survey: 96.1% male and 3.9% female. Most surgeons (96.5%) experience procedural-related MSP. Collectively, surgeons reported an average pain score of 3.7/10 (standard deviation ±1.95). Significant levels of MSP (≥5/10) were most common in the lower back (34.2%), hands (24.8%), and the neck (21.2%). There was a positive association among higher MSP and burnout (P < .001), callousness toward others (P = .005), and decreased overall happiness (P < .001). MSP was also found to have a significant impact on surgeon behavior including the degree of irritability (P < .001), alcohol intake (P < .001), and poor sleep patterns (P < .001).
Conclusion
The prevalence of MSP among arthroplasty surgeons is extremely high. This study demonstrates that MSP has a significant impact on career attitudes, lifestyle, and overall surgeon well-being. This study may also contribute to future work to prevent cumulative chronic ailments, disability, and lost productivity of arthroplasty surgeons through promotion of improved ergonomics and risk-reduction strategies.
The Surgeon Spine Support System
Inventions are born out of necessity more times than not. That is the case in this situation. Surgeons with lower back pain are forced to leave the OR long before they should and long before we want them to. We have developed an external skeletal support system that can extend a surgeon’s career with this problem. The system transfers the lower back stress and strain to the thigh area. This creates a totally comfortable lower back that is not distracting during surgery. The angle of lean is totally adjustable and allows you to stand erect and walk without being encumbered. Weighing only six pounds, it will also not bog you down. The support system is custom fitted but is also adjustable as needed.
Reduce the stress and pain on your body and extend your career!
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