A Survey on Endoscopy-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries in Japanese Endoscopists Focused on Injury Sites and Risk Factors

PurposeEndoscopy examinations require complex and repetitive maneuvers that can put a strain on the musculoskeletal system, and there have been recent reports on endoscopy-related injuries (ERI). A survey was carried out with a focus on sites of injuries and risk factors for Japanese endoscopists.MethodsA 29-item web survey including non-identifiable demographic data, practice information, ERI, usability of endoscopes and ergonomics practice was carried out for Japanese endoscopists. ERI were defined as past or present endoscopy-related muscle and joint disorders including pain, discomfort, movement restriction, and numbness.ResultsData for 352 endoscopists were analyzed after excluding 49 endoscopists who had injuries not related to endoscopy. The incidences of ERI were 55.6% (150/270) in males and 61.0% (50/82) in females (not significant). The age of the endoscopists (>= 36 years) and total number of endoscopy procedures per week (>= 28) were found to be significant factors associated with ERI. Risk factors for hand injuries were total number of endoscopy procedures per week (>= 28) and glove size (>= size 7) for males and age (>= 36 years) for females. The height (>= 172 cm) was associated with neck injuries in male endoscopists. Also, number of ERCP procedures per week (>= 1) in males and age (>= 36 years) in females were risks for lower back injuries.ConclusionERI occurred at a high rate among Japanese endoscopists by a self-reporting survey. It is necessary to clarify the relationships between the site of injury and risk factors and take preventive measures.