Asthenopia in Postgraduate Surgical Trainees: Prevalence and Correlation With Refractive and Orthoptic Parameters

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Education
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Asthenopia (eye strain) is common in professions requiring prolonged near work.
• However, it is under-reported among postgraduate surgical trainees.
• This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of asthenopia in this specific population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of asthenopia in surgical trainees.
• To identify associated risk factors contributing to eye strain in this group.
• To inform potential interventions for visual discomfort.

Main Methods:

• An observational study involving 107 surgical trainees (102 respondents).
• Utilized a structured asthenopia questionnaire and detailed ophthalmic evaluations for 43 trainees.
• Included assessments of visual acuity, fusional vergence, stereoacuity, and accommodation.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of asthenopia was found at 67.6% among surgical trainees.
• Ophthalmology trainees exhibited the highest prevalence.
• Lower positive fusional vergence (PFV) near was significantly associated with asthenopia (p=0.03).

Conclusions:

• Asthenopia is prevalent in surgical trainees, likely due to visual demands, sleep deprivation, and academic load.
• Routine ophthalmic and orthoptic assessments are recommended to alleviate symptoms.
• Addressing visual health is crucial for surgical trainee well-being and performance.