Occupational hazards of orthopaedic surgery and adult reconstruction: A cross-sectional study

Occupational injuries and hazards related to orthopaedic surgery are not well studied, and what is published on this topic is largely based on in vitro or in vivo animal studies.

To evaluate the self-reported prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) overuse disorders and other conditions among orthopaedic surgeons, especially those performing total hip (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and report the factors placing these surgeons at higher risk for occupational health hazards.

This was a cross-sectional study of 66 currently practicing orthopaedic surgeons in the Midwestern United States. An online survey was sent to the participants, and all responses were collected anonymously. The survey consisted of 18 multiple-choice questions.

Almost 82% of surgeons surveyed had either a musculoskeletal (MSK) overuse disorder, kidney stones, cataracts, infertility, deafness, or a combination of the above. Fifty-three percent of these respondents believed their medical conditions arose due to their job demands or exposure. A majority of the orthopaedic surgeons surveyed wanted to retire at either 60-65 years of age (31.8%) or 66-70 years of age (47%). Nearly 88% of the survey respondents believed they will be able to meet the demands of their job until their intended retirement age. The prevalence of an overuse disorder was highest for those who have been in practice for 21-30 years (100%). There was a trend toward higher rate of surgery for overuse condition in Adult Reconstruction (AR) surgeons. Rotator cuff disease was the most common MSK disorder affecting AR surgeons.

A majority (>80%) of orthopaedic surgeons suffer from a musculoskeletal overuse disorder, kidney stones, cataracts, infertility, deafness, or a combination of these. A significant proportion (53%) of surgeons believe one or more of their medical conditions developed due to occupational exposure.