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Occupational injury among orthopaedic surgeons.
William T Davis1, Vasanth Sathiyakumar, A Alex Jahangir
1The Vanderbilt Orthopaedic Institute Center for Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, Suite 4200, South Tower, MCE, Nashville, TN 37221, USA. tyler.davis@vanderbilt.edu
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|August 9, 2013
Summary
Many orthopaedic surgeons experience workplace injuries, particularly those with 21-30 years of practice. These injuries impact surgeons and the healthcare system, with many lacking institutional support for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Occupational Health
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Orthopaedic surgery is physically demanding, involving prolonged, injury-predisposing postures.
- Surgeon injuries can compromise patient care and increase healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and types of workplace injuries sustained by orthopaedic surgeons.
- To assess the impact of these occupational injuries on practicing surgeons.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to orthopaedic surgeons in Tennessee to assess occupational injuries.
- Data analysis identified associations between demographic/workplace factors and injury rates.
Main Results:
- 44% of surveyed orthopaedic surgeons reported career workplace injuries, with highest prevalence in those with 21-30 years of experience.
- Common injuries include hand (25%), lower back (19%), and neck (10%).
- 10% missed work due to injury, and 38% of injured surgeons lacked institutional support.
Conclusions:
- This study highlights the significant prevalence of occupational injuries among orthopaedic surgeons.
- Workplace injuries have economic implications due to missed work and impact on providers.
- There is a need for greater institutional support for orthopaedic surgeons recovering from occupational injuries.