SP5.06 Surgical Ergonomics in Operating General and Breast Surgeons – a Snapshot Study

Aims To objectively assess the surgeons’ posture intraoperatively, using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) toolkit and identify potential risk factors leading to work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. Methods Baseline demographics were recorded via voluntary questionnaires completed by general and breast surgeons, inclusive of consultants and residents. An objective ergonomic score was prospectively recorded on the REBA toolkit by an independent observer in operating theatres, across different subtypes of surgeries – open, laparoscopic and robotic. Statistical analyses performed using Microsoft Excel. Results Total questionnaire response rate was 87%. 43% of respondents reported underlying MSK issues, with conditions affecting the neck (39%), shoulders (39%), wrist/hands (39%) and lower back (61%). Overall REBA assessment scores revealed a median score of 6.17 (range 3-13), indicating medium risk to developing work-related MSK disorders. Risk analysis revealed that open surgery was a significant risk factor (RR 5, 95% CI 1.684 – 15.715, p = 0.004). Pre-existing MSK issues (RR 1.56, 95% CI 0.532 – 4.573, p = 0.425), role of surgeon (primary surgeon: RR 2.05, 95% CI 0.668 – 6.345, p = 0.21; assistant: 0.49, 95% CI 0.158 – 1.497, p = 1.27) and surgeons’ height difference (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.084 – 2.55, p = 1.36), were not significant risk factors. Conclusions This study objectively demonstrated suboptimal ergonomics in operating surgeons and open surgery was identified as a significant risk factor. There is a need for further education and changes to be implemented to minimise risks of developing preventable work-related MSK disorders in general and breast surgeons.