Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among gynecologic surgeons performing laparoscopic procedures: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Issue 1 (6th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wu, Lily; Liu, Sarah; Lommen, Jonathan; Pudwell, Jessica; Pelland, Lucie; Bougie, Olga
• Is Part Of: International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics. Volume 161:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 151
• Page End: 158
• Publication Date: 2022-11-06
• Subjects: ergonomics -- laparoscopy -- minimally invasive surgery -- musculoskeletal -- occupational health -- pain -- surgeon; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 618
• DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14518
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7292

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: Musculoskeletal discomfort is associated with repetitive movements and constrained body positions. The current meta‐analysis was performed to determine the global prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among gynecologic surgeons who perform laparoscopy. Methods: Sources included Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, and Google Scholar. Articles published between 1980 and 2022 were considered. Studies that assessed self‐reported musculoskeletal symptoms were included. Relevant data were extracted and tabulated. Results: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. In a pooled sample of 1619 surgeons, the estimated prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was 82% (95% confidence interval [CI], 70%–89%; I 2, 92%). Female sex was a risk factor, as identified by a pooled odds ratio of 4.64 (95% CI, 2.63–8.19; I 2, 0%) compared with male surgeons. Among surgeons who reported musculoskeletal symptoms, 30% (95% CI, 14%–52%; I 2, 95%) sought treatment and 3% (95% CI, 2%–6%; I 2, 0%) required work hour modifications. Conclusion: The current meta‐analysis provides preliminary evidence of a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among gynecologic laparoscopic surgeons. Future research is needed to explore the underlying risk factors and interventional strategies to mitigate this risk. Synopsis: The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among gynecologic surgeons who perform laparoscopy is 82%. Further research is warranted to characterize symptom impact and underlying risk factors.