LAUSR

BACKGROUND Occupational injuries and disability are a source of surgeon morbidity. The purpose of this study was to assess the physical toll of working in operating rooms by Canadian vascular surgeons. OBJECTIVE To assess work-place musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints and challenges faced by Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees and its implications on surgical practice and occupational longevity. METHODS An online survey was distributed to resident and surgeon members of the Canadian Society of Vascular Surgery. The survey collected data on demographics, operative volume, and work-related MSK symptoms. RESULTS The survey was distributed to 188 surgeons and trainees. After three e-mailings, 109 surveys were returned (58% response rate). Of the responders, 87% were male, 51% were 45 years or older, and 56% had been in practice for ten or more years. Workplace MSK symptoms was reported by 83% of the responders. The most common locations were the low back (78%), neck (74%), and shoulder (30%). Most responders (83%) believed that these symptoms were related to their operative environment. Almost half (48%) sought medical care. As a result of these MSK symptoms, 25% experience chronic pain with 8% reporting time off work as a consequence. Another 11% reported an impact on their operative performance with 14% considering early retirement. A lack of operating room system changes to prevent workplace injury and disability was noted by 85% of the responders although only 3% reported their disability to their department. CONCLUSION Occupational MSK symptoms and disability is common amongst Canadian vascular surgeons. Further research is needed to create programs to improve surgeon morbidity.