Surgical Ergonomics for Women in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

The number of women in otolaryngology is steadily increasing, with currently 30% to 40% of all US otolaryngology residents being female. Surgical instruments and equipments have historically been designed for a man's hand, and this puts female otolaryngologists at higher risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). There are strategies to mitigate WRMDs in the OR which can be generally applied but can be further modified for women surgeons. Large-scale improvement must begin at the source, however, engaging industry in meaningful ways to elicit the design of more equitable operating rooms and equipment.