[Musculoskeletal pain among surgeons]

Area of Science:

• Surgical practice
• Occupational health
• Musculoskeletal disorders

Background:

• High prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal pain among surgeons (up to 68%).
• Specific pain locations include lower back, neck, and shoulders.
• Minimally invasive surgery poses higher risks than open surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal pain in surgeons.
• To discuss the impact of this pain on surgeons and healthcare.
• To highlight the need for evidence-based preventive strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on musculoskeletal pain in surgical professions.
• Analysis of risk factors associated with different surgical techniques (open, minimally invasive, robot-assisted).
• Examination of the consequences of pain on surgeon productivity and career.

Main Results:

• Minimally invasive procedures are associated with increased risk compared to open surgery.
• Robot-assisted surgery may present a lower risk profile.
• Static postures, awkward positions, and prolonged surgery duration are key physical risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Work-related musculoskeletal pain significantly impacts surgeons, affecting productivity and career longevity.
• Current preventive strategies lack robust evidence.
• There is a critical need for research into effective, cost-efficient solutions to mitigate surgeon pain and improve healthcare efficiency.