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

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. To assess workplace musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints and challenges faced by Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees and their implications on surgical practice and occupational longevity. 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. 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. Occupational MSK symptoms and disability are common among Canadian vascular surgeons. Further research is needed to create programs to improve surgeon morbidity.