The impact of procedural activities on musculoskeletal pain experienced by pregnant surgeons

Abstract

BackgroundTwo-thirds of surgeons report work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). There is limited data on WRMD symptoms experienced by pregnant surgeons. MethodsWe distributed an electronic survey via personal contacts to attending and trainee surgeons across six academic institutions to assess the impact of procedural activities and surgical ergonomics (SE) on WRMD symptoms during pregnancy. ResultsFifty-three respondents were currently or had been pregnant while clinically active, representing 93 total pregnancies. 94.7% reported that symptoms were exacerbated by workplace activities during pregnancy and 13.2% took unplanned time off work as a result. Beyond 24 weeks of pregnancy, 89.2% of respondents continued to operate/perform procedures, 81.7% worked >24-h shifts and 69.9% performed repetitive lifting >50 pounds. No respondents were aware of any institutional pregnancy-specific SE policies. ConclusionsProcedural activities can exacerbate pain symptoms for the pregnant surgeon. SE best practices during pregnancy warrant further attention.