Abstract
Introduction
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) are a less discussed entity in the
medical profession, with surgical specialties being more prone to them. Little is
known about these types of injuries in plastic surgeons specifically. Data on WRMDs
among Indian plastic surgeons are lacking. The goals of this study were to evaluate
the prevalence, nature, particular contributory causal factors and behaviors, and
potential remedies of these musculoskeletal injuries among plastic surgeons in India.
Materials and Methods
An online voluntary survey was conducted among plastic surgeons in India, collecting
their demographics, workload characteristics, musculoskeletal issues, causal factors,
and corrective measures, taken using Google Forms. Data were extracted into an MS
Excel spreadsheet and analyzed. The prevalence of WRMDs was calculated and the predictors
were evaluated with a univariate analysis.
Results
Thirty-three percent of 297 respondents had work-related musculoskeletal injuries
or disorders, with the majority experiencing pain (82%), with the neck being the most
common site (61%); this was followed by stiffness (61%) and fatigue (52%). The most
common causative factors were sustained posture (81%), awkward posture (72%), and
inadequate breaks (34%). Age (p = 0.041) and average operative hours per week (p = 0.036) were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). The corrective measures cited were stretching exercises, core-strengthening
exercises, maintaining proper posture, taking frequent breaks, and yoga.
Conclusion
Plastic surgeons are at high risk of WRMDs, with a significant prevalence in India.
Albeit plastic surgeons in India face a higher case load, implementation of ergonomic
principles can help in reducing the incidence of these disorders and in preventing
the severity of sequelae.
Keywords
ergonomics - workload - risk - work related musculoskeletal disorders - plastic surgeons
in India - surveys in plastic surgery
