Stress and Strain: Ergonomic Practices and Associated Injuries Among Pediatric Surgeons

Area of Science:

• Surgical Practice
• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Ergonomic injuries present substantial risks to surgeons' health and careers.
• Pediatric surgery involves unique ergonomic challenges due to patient size and procedure variability.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the ergonomic practices and injury prevalence among pediatric surgeons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the ergonomic practices and identify associated injuries in pediatric surgeons.
• To investigate the prevalence of discomfort and injury in this surgical subspecialty.
• To explore potential modifiable factors influencing ergonomic outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was administered to members of the American Pediatric Surgical Association.
• Data included demographics, surgical habits, and self-reported discomfort and injuries.
• Statistical analyses employed Fisher's exact test, Pearson's Chi-squared test, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

Main Results:

• Nearly 90% of respondents reported discomfort or pain, with 30% sustaining injuries, predominantly in the neck/cervical spine.
• Operating habits included infrequent breaks (76%) and regular use of loupes (51%).
• Ergonomic training was received by only 18%, and training/co-surgeon presence correlated with reduced injury.

Conclusions:

• Ergonomic issues are highly prevalent among pediatric surgeons, significantly impacting their well-being and contributing to burnout.
• Few surgeons receive formal ergonomic training, highlighting a critical gap in education.
• Targeted interventions addressing modifiable ergonomic factors are crucial for improving pediatric surgeon health and preventing injuries.