Beyond The Scalpel: Relationship Between Surgeons’ Operating Positions And Development Of Musculoskeletal Pain

Beyond The Scalpel: Relationship Between Surgeons’ Operating Positions And Development Of Musculoskeletal Pain

Kelvin F Sawe , Samuel P Swai, Sonia N Sokoine
Kairuki University, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Introduction: Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are a major concern for surgeons, affecting 60-93% globally due to awkward postures, repetitive motions, and extended hours in the operating room. The lack of working ergonomics significantly exacerbates these risks, emphasizing the need for proper workplace adjustments. This study focused on Tanzanian surgeons, our goal was to highlight the urgent need for interventions to enhance surgeon health and performance.

Materials and Method: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among Tanzanian surgeons to evaluate their experiences with musculoskeletal pain. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent secured from participants. An electronic questionnaire achieved an 89% response rate, gathering pain details and their associated factors using validated scales. Descriptive statistics analyzed demographics and pain prevalence, while inferential statistics examined links between operating positions and pain severity across specialties.

Results: A total of 171 surgeons participated in this cross-sectional study, with a mean age of 42.3 years (SD ± 8.7) and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25.4 (SD ± 3.2). The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was reported at 68%, with the highest incidence in the lower back (66.4%) and neck (45.7%). MSP was more prevalent among general and orthopedic surgeons at 71.1% (32) and 66.3% (55), respectively, compared to urologic and ENT specialists, with statistical significance noted across specialties (p < 0.05). Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between specific operating positions and pain severity, with a p-value < 0.05.

Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of MSP among surgeons in Tanzania, with the lower back, neck, and upper back being the most affected regions. Prolonged static positions, awkward postures, and extended operating durations were significantly associated with pain development. The findings emphasise the urgent need for ergonomic interventions, such as adaptive equipment and posture training to mitigate MSP and improve surgeons’ overall health and work performance.

Keywords: Surgeons’ operating positions, Working Ergonomics, Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders.