Survey of Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees finds work-related musculoskeletal pain and discomfort is common

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 workplace musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints and challenges faced by Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees and their 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 10 or more years. Workplace MSK symptoms were 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. Conclusions: Occupational MSK symptoms and disability are common among Canadian vascular surgeons. Further research is needed to create programs to improve surgeon morbidity.