Preventing Surgeon Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Pilot Study of the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics (CORE) Program

Abstract

Importance: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among surgeons are markedly increasing. Several proposed interventions to reduce WMSDs among surgeons have been studied, but few follow an occupational therapy–oriented approach addressing biomechanical, psychophysical, and psychosocial risk factors. Objective: To design, implement, and assess the potential of the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics (CORE) program for surgeons, a holistic evidence-based ergonomics and wellness intervention grounded in occupational therapy principles. Design: Mixed-methods pilot study with the quantitative strand embedded in the qualitative strand. Setting: University-affiliated hospital. Participants: Six laparoscopic surgeons. Outcomes and Measures: CORE program outcomes were assessed using qualitative and quantitative data to indicate changes in posture, physical discomfort, sense of wellness, and operating room (OR) ergonomic performance. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) was used to quantify surgeons’ WMSD risk level before and after intervention. Results: There were 12 baseline observations (two for each participant), and two or three post-CORE implementation observations. A statistically significant difference, F(1, 6) = 8.57, p = .03, was found between pre– and post–occupational therapy intervention RULA scores. Thematic analysis of surgeon feedback, which was overwhelmingly positive, identified five themes: postural alignment, areas of commonly reported physical pain or discomfort, setup of the OR environment, surgical ergonomics training, and ergonomics in everyday life. Conclusions and Relevance: The CORE program effectively decreased ergonomic risk factors to optimize surgeons’ occupational performance in the OR. This study demonstrates a potential solution to how occupational therapists can holistically support surgeons and health care providers who are at risk for WMSDs. Plain-Language Summary: By 2025, a surgeon shortage is expected, partly because of the increase in surgeons’ work-related musculoskeletal disorders, which affect their health and job continuity. This pilot study shows that the Comprehensive Operating Room Ergonomics program effectively addresses these problems. The study also serves as a framework for occupational therapy professionals to work with health care providers on ergonomics, benefiting population health. Results suggest that this approach could enhance surgeons’ work conditions, supporting the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Vision 2025 to improve health and quality of life.