Risk Assessment and Prevalence of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Cranial and Spinal Neurosurgeons

Abstract

To assess the risk and prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in spine and cranial surgeons. A cross-sectional analytic study composed of a risk assessment and a questionnaire-based survey was conducted. The risk assessment for WMSDs was performed on young volunteer neurosurgeons using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment tool. The survey-based questionnaire was distributed using the Google Forms software among the relevant official WhatsApp groups of the Egyptian Society of Neurological Surgeons and the Egyptian Spine Association. Thirteen volunteers with a median service of 8 years were assessed for the risk of WMSDs, showing moderate to very high risk of WMSDs, with a Risk Index >1 for all assessed postures. A total of 232 respondents completed the questionnaire, 74% of whom reported WMSD symptoms. Pain was experienced by most (96%), with neck pain being the most common (62.8%), followed by low back pain (56.0%), shoulder pain (44.5%), and wrist/finger pain (43.9%). Pain was experienced for 1-3 years by most respondents; however, most did not reduce their case volume, seek medical advice, or stop working when they experienced pain. The survey showed shortage in the literature studying ergonomics, calling for more ergonomic education and furnishing of working environment of neurosurgeons. WMSDs are prevalent among neurosurgeons, affecting their ability to work. Ergonomics need further awareness, education, and interventions to reduce WMSDs, especially neck and low back pain, which proved to substantially interfere with work ability.