Quantifying Ergonomic Risk Among Otolaryngology Surgeons

Area of Science:

• Musculoskeletal health
• Surgical ergonomics
• Occupational safety

Background:

• Otolaryngology operations demand sustained static postures and precision, increasing surgeon risk for musculoskeletal strain.
• Ergonomic challenges are linked to surgeon discomfort and potential long-term disability, yet intraoperative assessments are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify intraoperative ergonomic risk and acute musculoskeletal pain in otolaryngologists.
• To examine demographic and procedural factors associated with surgeon discomfort during head and neck operations.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cross-sectional study involving 17 otolaryngology surgeons.
• Assessed intraoperative ergonomic risk using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA).
• Collected preoperative and postoperative pain scores and relevant demographic/procedural data.

Main Results:

• High rates of medium to high ergonomic risk (RULA 5-7) were observed in both attending physicians (37%) and residents (43%).
• Increased pain scores correlated with greater case difficulty and larger glove sizes.
• Ergonomic risk (RULA scores) increased with operative duration, particularly in surgeons aged 40 and older.

Conclusions:

• Otolaryngology surgeons face significant intraoperative pain and ergonomic risks.
• Hand size is a notable factor contributing to intraoperative discomfort.
• Urgent need for enhanced ergonomic awareness, training, and equipment redesign to mitigate risks and ensure surgeon longevity.