Assessment of work-related musculoskeletal pain in urologic microsurgeons

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Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among surgeons, but data among urologic microsurgeons are limited. We conducted a 24-item anonymous online survey distributed via email to approximately 6000 urologists between June and July 2021, assessing demographics, operative volume, exercise patterns, ergonomic practices, and musculoskeletal disorders’ symptoms using a modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Fifty surgeons responded, response rate: 0.8% (50/6000). Mean age was 48.5 ± 12.4 years and body mass index 26.4 ± 3.1 kg/m². Past-year musculoskeletal disorders’ symptoms were reported by 42/50 (84.0%) and weekly symptoms by 30/50 (60.0%). No clear differences were observed between exercise frequency, operative volume, or years in practice and musculoskeletal disorders’ prevalence based on descriptive comparisons. Operating posture was associated with weekly symptoms: 8/20 (40.0%) of surgeons operating seated reported weekly symptoms versus 22/30 (73.3%) operating standing ( p = 0.038). Weekly low back symptoms were reported by 1/20 (5.0%) seated versus 9/30 (30.0%) standing. Musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among urologic microsurgeons, and seated operative posture may be associated with reduced symptom burden.

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