Musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics in dermatologic surgery: A survey of Mohs surgeons in 2010 Journal Article


Authors: Liang, C. A.; Levine, V. J.; Dusza, S. W.; Hale, E. K.; Nehal, K. S.
Article Title: Musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics in dermatologic surgery: A survey of Mohs surgeons in 2010
Abstract: BACKGROUND Dermatologic surgeons perform numerous procedures that put them at risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders. OBJECTIVE To study the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and role of ergonomics in dermatologic surgery. METHODS AND MATERIALS A survey study was sent to members of the American College of Mohs Surgery in 2010. The main outcome measures were survey responses relating to surgeon demographics, musculoskeletal symptoms, workstyle habits and attitudes, and ergonomic practices. RESULTS Ninety percent of respondents reported some type of musculoskeletal symptoms or injuries. The most common complaints were neck, lower back, shoulder, and upper back pain. Most respondents were not using ergonomic modifications in their practice. CONCLUSION Mohs surgeons have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. Symptoms present early and persist throughout the careers of Mohs surgeons. The nature of the occupation leaves the surgeon vulnerable to injury. Ergonomic modifications in behavior and workplace are recommended to reduce pain and injury to surgeons.
Keywords: adult; major clinical study; review; outcome assessment; prevalence; health survey; attitude to health; backache; physician attitude; work environment; musculoskeletal disease; skin surgery; lifestyle; low back pain; neck pain; shoulder pain; workplace; ergonomics; absenteeism; occupational disease; plastic surgeon
Journal Title: Dermatologic Surgery
Volume: 38
Issue: 2
ISSN: 1076-0512
Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins  
Date Published: 2012-02-01
Start Page: 240
End Page: 248
Language: English
ACCESSION: WOS:000299945600014
DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02237.x
PROVIDER: wos
PUBMED: 22212027
Notes: --- - Article - "Source: Wos"
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  1. Kishwer S Nehal
    278 Nehal
  2. Stephen Dusza
    288 Dusza