Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Canadian Gynecological Surgeons: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Objective: To determine the frequency and burden of musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms among gynecological surgeons practicing in Canada and to identify possible contributing factors. Methods: An online, cross-sectional survey was emailed to gynecological surgeons practicing across Canada. The survey included questions regarding surgeon demographics, MSK symptoms, the burden of these symptoms, and possible contributing factors. Results: Of the 254 survey respondents, 92.1% (234/254) (95% confidence interval [CI], 88–95%) reported work-related MSK symptoms. The most common symptoms experienced were pain, stiffness, muscle fatigue, and numbness/tingling. The most common body regions affected were the neck, lower back, and right shoulder. Overall, the burden of MSK symptoms was severe in 48% of respondents and mild or moderate in 44%. The odds of female surgeons experiencing a severe burden of MSK symptoms were significantly greater than for male surgeons (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.62, 95% CI 1.26–5.43). Age <40 years (aOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.25–0.78), greater perceived fitness level (aOR 0.70; 95% CI 0.53–0.93), and a greater proportion of surgeries performed vaginally compared with laparoscopically (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.77–0.998) significantly reduced the odds of a severe burden of MSK symptoms. Conclusion: The findings underline the high frequency and severity of burden of MSK symptoms among Canadian gynecological surgeons, with a greater likelihood among female compared with male surgeons. Future research is warranted to identify strategies that could improve MSK health for gynecological surgeons.