A study on musculoskeletal disorders and personal and occupational risk factors among surgeons

Background and Surgery is a high risk profession owing to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Fine and precise operations cause surgeons to adopt prolonged fixed posture. As there is limited information in this region, the purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of MSDs and personal and occupational risk factors among surgeons in Babol (a northern city in Iran). This cross-sectional study was conducted on 45 surgeons during 2011 using a questionnaire in three parts including: Demographic and occupational data, Nordic standardized musculoskeletal disorders questionnaire (NMQ), and Body Discomfort Assessment technique. The working posture during operation was assessed by Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical indexes and chi- square test, and a p<0.05 was considered as significant. According to the data, the mean of work experience was 19.9±6 years, and the mean of work hours was 54.2±14 (ranged 20-80 hours per week). Ninety five percent of surgeons reported experiencing one or more MSDs symptoms during the previous year. Neck pain (66.7%) and low back pain (LBP) (51%) was the more frequent reported complaint. The results showed a significant statistical difference between LBP with weekly regular exercise and work experience. The results indicate that MSDs are the common problems among the surgeons and they are at risk because of their personal and occupational conditions. So, ergonomics interventions in order to prevent MSDs are recommended.