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A systematic review of interventions to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders in ENT surgeons

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 September 2021

B Storey Open the ORCID record for B Storey [Opens in a new window] ,
M Verkerk ,
A Hashtroudi  and
D Golding-Wood
B Storey*
Affiliation:
King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
M Verkerk
Affiliation:
Guy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
A Hashtroudi
Affiliation:
Guy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
D Golding-Wood
Affiliation:
King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
*
Author for correspondence: Mr B Storey, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 9RS, UK E-mail: bradleystorey@doctors.org.uk
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Abstract

Objective

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in ENT surgeons are common and detrimental, yet few are aware of preventative measures. We evaluate the evidence for interventions to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders in ENT surgeons.

Method

A systematic search of databases up to 8 June 2021 was performed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines and predetermined inclusion criteria.

Results

Seven prospective cohort studies and 2 case series were identified (51 participants). Interventions included novel equipment (n = 3), patient positioning (n = 2), clinician positioning (n = 3) and operative technique (n = 1). Five studies reported Rapid Upper Limb Assessment scores as outcome measures of strain. Strain decreased when adopting a favourable operating posture, using a supportive chair and keeping patients supine for clinic procedures.

Conclusion

A small number of low-quality studies were identified. Modifiable risk factors exist, and ergonomic education may help prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Further studies with longer term follow up are required.

Keywords

Musculoskeletal DiseasesPostureOccupational TherapyErgonomicsPatient PositioningSurgeonsRisk Factors
Type
Main Article
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 136 , Issue 7 , July 2022 , pp. 622 - 627
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of J.L.O. (1984) LIMITED

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Footnotes

Mr B Storey takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper

Presented at the Association of Surgeons in Training 2020 Conference, 6–8 March 2020, Birmingham, UK and Virtual British Academic Conference in Otolaryngology International, 10–12 January 2021, online.

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