What Women Want: A Call for Ergonomic, Equitable and Inclusive Orthopaedic Surgical Practice

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Education
• Gender Studies in Medicine

Background:

• Women are underrepresented in Indian orthopaedic surgery despite medical school parity.
• Structural barriers and implicit biases are known issues, but women's lived experiences are less understood.
• This study explores the challenges, choices, and values of female orthopaedic surgeons in India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To capture the perspectives of female orthopaedic surgeons in India.
• To identify challenges faced during training and practice.
• To understand what women value in orthopaedic surgery education and careers.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey of 102 female orthopaedic surgeons (residents to senior consultants) across India.
• A 43-item questionnaire assessed demographics, training, ergonomics, health, psychosocial issues, and gender bias.
• Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively; qualitative data were thematically coded.

Main Results:

• 71.8% felt a lack of confidence from seniors/peers; 24.5% reported no gender bias during training.
• Common issues included poorly fitting lead aprons (64.7%), radiation exposure (27%), back pain (31.7%), and neck pain (27.6%).
• 91.2% were discouraged from trauma orthopaedics due to work-life imbalance, radiation, and lack of mentorship.

Conclusions:

• Female orthopaedic surgeons value supportive mentorship, equal operative access, safe conditions, and recognition.
• Addressing these needs is crucial for an inclusive orthopaedic community.
• Promoting gender equity in orthopaedics requires institutional support and tailored solutions.