Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among vaginal surgeons.
OBJECTIVE
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) reportedly affect a large proportion of providers in obstetrics and gynecology. We hypothesize a high MSD prevalence rate among vaginal surgeons associated with surgeon- and work-related characteristics.


METHODS
Surveys were distributed to members of the International Urogynecological Association and American Urogynecological Society. Exclusion criteria included inability to read English, no computer access, invalid or unavailable e-mail address, and missing >50% of responses.


RESULTS
Among respondents, 86.7% (436/503) reported ever having work-related MSDs. On univariate analysis, surgeons involved in surgical teaching were significantly more likely to report work-related MSDs. Female surgeons had more frequent and more severe MSDs in the neck, dominant shoulder, and upper back. Older age and more years of work experience were associated with seeking medical attention. Right-hand dominance was associated with negative consequences on work behavior.


CONCLUSIONS
A large proportion of vaginal surgeon respondents reported work-related MSDs.
Division of Gynecologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Shunaha
S
Kim-Fine
Sandra M
SM
Woolley
Amy L
AL
Weaver
Jill M
JM
Killian
John B
JB
Gebhart
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D015995:Prevalence