Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Surgeons Performing Minimally Invasive Surgery: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Surgical Ergonomics
• Occupational Health
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery offers patient benefits but increases ergonomic challenges for surgeons.
• Laparoscopic surgeons report higher physical complaints (73-88%) than the general working population.
• Addressing surgeons' physical health is crucial due to ergonomic constraints in minimally invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among surgeons performing minimally invasive surgery.
• To assess physical ergonomics as a determinant of MSDs in laparoscopic surgeons.
• To synthesize existing literature on MSD prevalence in this surgical population.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies published up to April 15, 2016.
• Searched major databases: Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsychINFO.
• Meta-analyses conducted using the Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman method.

Main Results:

• 35 articles and 7112 respondents were included in the review.
• Weighted average prevalence of physical complaints was 74% (95% CI 65-83%).
• High heterogeneity (I² = 98.3%) and low response rates were observed, suggesting a potential prevalence between 22% and 74%.

Conclusions:

• A significant prevalence of physical complaints (74%) exists among laparoscopic surgeons.
• Low response rates and study inconsistencies create uncertainty regarding the true MSD prevalence.
• Improving surgeon well-being is essential for patient safety and surgical care quality.