Riesgos osteomusculares: Patología ortopédica en el cardiólogo intervencionista

Abstract

Back pain is one of the symptoms most associated with occupational health risks. It is highly prevalent in the North American population, and mainly affects those people that have to use mechanical effort in their work. It is, therefore, an occupational risk for interventionist medicine personnel, such as radiologists, neuro-radiologists and interventional cardiologists. As such, in several observational studies this phenomenon is known as “interventionist disc”. This condition is closely associated with the personal radiation protection equipment that is usually very heavy. These include the leaded aprons used to protect against ionising radiation, or in catheterisation laboratories that promote inadequate ergonomic postures. There is evidence that, compared to other surgeons such as in orthopaedics, these invasive medicine professionals have a higher risk of spinal column problems, although these latter have longer surgical procedure times.On the other hand, the higher incidence rate of axial injuries in interventional cardiologists seems to be associated with the combination of using a leaded apron and the catheterisation procedures.It has been shown in prevalence studies that compare orthopaedists, rheumatologists, and interventionist cardiologists that these latter had between 49.4% and 53% musculoskeletal lesion.The methods to reduce weight load have been focused on innovations based on the manufacture of lead-free alternatives for shielding. The use of mobile protectors supported on the floor also substantially reduces whole body exposure.As regards ergonomics, new studies are required with experts in radiation, doctors and administrators, with the aim of designing an appropriate interventional radiology room.