Journal of the American College of Surgeons
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Do No Harm, Except to Ourselves? A Survey of Symptoms and Injuries in Oncologic Surgeons and Pilot Study of an Intraoperative Ergonomic Intervention.
Occupational symptoms and injuries incurred over a surgical career are under- reported, yet they have an impact on daily surgical practice. We assessed the frequency, consequences, and risk factors for occupational injury in oncologic surgeons and evaluated the feasibility of intraoperative foot mat use to mitigate occupational symptoms. ⋯ Most oncologic surgeons experience musculoskeletal symptoms from operating. Of the 28% of surgeons with an occupational injury, most required treatment. Intraoperative foot mat use was associated with increased discomfort.