Among women presenting to a domestic violence therapy program seeking counseling, head and neck and musculoskeletal injuries were most common. Frequency of physical abuse was most likely to be associated with younger women who are in short-term relationships, have chemical and alcohol dependency, and concomitant emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse. Recognizing musculoskeletal injuries in women as a potential result of intimate partner violence is warranted. Identifying children exposed to abusive situations may further alert treating surgeons to the potential for intimate partner violence in the mother.

Surgical residents identified a general lack of education, time constraints, lack of priority, and staff disapproval as important factors limiting incorporation of EBM. Curriculum reform and surgeon education may help overcome these barriers.