The Physical Toll of Working in Operating Rooms: A Survey of the Canadian Society of Vascular Surgery

Abstract

Objective: Occupational injuries and disability is increasingly being recognized as a source of surgeon burnout. The purpose of this study was to assess work place musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints and challenges faced by Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees and its implications on surgical practice and occupational longevity. Methods: We designed and distributed an online survey to members of the Canadian Society of Vascular Surgery, including residents, fellows, and staff vascular surgeons. The survey collected data on surgeon demographics, operative volume, technical preferences and work-related MSK symptoms. Results: An online survey was distributed to 189 surgeons and trainees. After three e-mailings, 110 surveys were returned for a 58% response rate. Of the responders, 87% were male, 50% were 45 years or older, and 55% had been in practice for 10 or more years. Work place MSK symptoms were reported by 83% of the responders; the most common symptom locations were pain in the low back (78%), neck (74%), and shoulder (31%). Of the responders, 80% believed that these symptoms were directly related to their operative environment and 48% sought medical care for this issue, including physiotherapy (22%), massage therapy (30%), and surgery (7%). As a result of these MSK symptoms, 25% experience chronic pain with 8% requiring analgesics and 8% reporting time off work as a consequence. Another 11% reported an impact on their operative performance, with 14% considering early retirement. A lack of operating room system changes to prevent workplace injury and disability was noted by 85% of the responders, although only 3% reported their disability to their department. Conclusions: Occupational MSK symptoms and disability is higher among Canadian vascular surgeons than other surgical specialties. Aside from raising awareness, further research is needed to design and validate a dedicated ergonomics program aimed to preventing these disorders to promote surgeon longevity and quality-of-life.