Patterns of musculoskeletal injury among joint replacement surgeons in Hong Kong

Abstract

Background: Work related injuries are a well investigated area among numerous manual labour professions, with the development of safety guidelines and legislation. In joint replacement surgery, repetitive use of certain joints and muscle groups may place the surgeon at risk of overuse issues and other musculoskeletal disorders especially if case load is substantial. There is currently no information regarding the incidence and patterns of injury among arthroplasty surgeons in Hong Kong. If such information were available, pre-emptive measures, e.g., counselling, physical and occupational therapy can possibly be implemented to minimise the physical, psychological and negative effect on productivity in surgeons. Methods: A standardised web-based questionnaire assessing musculoskeletal problems was sent to members of the Hong Kong Orthopaedic Association Adult Joint Reconstruction chapter. Data were collated and then analysed. Results and Discussion: In total, there were 40 participants, 39 male and one female. Mean age was 46.8 ± 9.6 years (range, 31-73 years). Mean time in orthopaedic practice was 20.7 ± 9.4 years (range, 8-41 years). 90% and 29% reported having experienced ache, pain or discomfort in the past 12 months and 7 days, respectively. 38.7% reported trouble with their hands in the past 12 months. Cervical spondylosis was the most common musculoskeletal diagnosis (19.3%) followed by finger triggering (10%), De Quervain disease (10%), hand osteoarthritis (10%), and tennis elbow (10%). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal injuries are common among joint replacement surgeons in Hong Kong. Ergonomic education and occupational therapy may be of benefit to decrease the burden of disease in this population.