Endocrine surgeons have high rates of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) injury and symptoms

Abstract

BackgroundWork-related injury and musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms are common among surgeons, however data for endocrine surgeons (ES) are lacking. MethodsA survey was distributed to American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (AAES) and Endocrine section of American Head and Neck Society (AHNS) members. ResultsMSK symptoms were present in 199 (90%) of 220 respondents, most notably pain (91%) and stiffness (81%). The most common locations were neck (87%) and shoulders (55%). Women were more likely to be symptomatic (98.6% versus 86.4%, p = 0.004). Although 67% of respondents reported awareness of ergonomic principles, only 19% had learned about them during training. The most common ergonomic adjustments were stretching, use of microbreaks and headlight/loupe adjustments. ConclusionThe vast majority of ES surgeons suffer MSK symptoms that could potentially impact their quality of life and career length. Effective strategies are needed to protect this highly trained workforce.