Prevalence, risk factors, and prevention strategies for intraoperative sharp object injuries among orthopedic...

Orthopedic surgeons are routinely exposed to occupational hazards from sharp instruments, with needlestick injuries affecting 80% to 90% of practitioners. These incidents increase the risk of blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus. Beyond physical harm, such injuries cause psychological distress and financial strain. This study assessed the prevalence, perceived contributing factors, and prevention strategies for intraoperative sharp object injuries among orthopedic surgeons. This cross-sectional study, conducted from November 2023 to January 2024, examined intraoperative sharp object injuries among orthopedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire distributed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, covering demographics, injury prevalence, percieved risk factors, and prevention strategies. A total of 105 surgeons participated. Sharp object injuries were reported by 90.5% (n = 95), with 68.6% (n = 72) sustaining multiple incidents. Specialists had the highest injury prevalence (94.4%; 51/54), compared with residents (72.7%; 16/22) and consultants (96.6%; 28/29), showing a significant association between role and injury frequency (χ² = 11.24, df = 4, P = .024). Mid-career professionals with 5 to 15 years of experience were most affected (94.4%; 51/54), compared with early-career (<5 years, 70.4%; 19/27) and late-career (>15 years, 88.9%; 16/18), with a significant association between years of experience and injury frequency (χ² = 24.29, df = 8, P = .002). Suture needles were the leading cause (52.6%), particularly during fracture management (86.3%). The most frequently perceived contributing factors were understaffing (27.4%), prolonged procedures (23.2%), and long working hours (17.9%). While 80% (n = 76) reported adopting preventive measures, adherence to safety protocols was inconsistent: 77.1% used personal protective equipment and 61.9% attempted to minimize distractions during surgery. This study found a high prevalence of sharp object injuries among orthopedic surgeons, particularly mid-career professionals. Suture needles, especially during fracture management, were the most frequently implicated instruments. Participants most often perceived systemic issues, including prolonged work hours, understaffing, and inconsistent adherence to safety protocols, as key contributors. Preventive strategies should focus on improving compliance with infection control measures, structured training, and institutional support for staffing and safety policies.