Occupational Injuries to Endoscopists: Report from the ASGE Web Survey

摘要

Background: Musculoskeletal injuries are common among GI endoscopists. Previous studies (Buschbacher 1994; O'Sullivan 2002) reported an incidence of musculoskeletal injuries as low as 13% (neck injuries) and as high as 57% (back injuries). Associated factors include the volume of endoscopy and the ergonomics of the ERCP suite. Methods: The ASGE Web Editorial Board was charged by Governing Board to develop a survey on occupational injures. Members were encouraged to complete the web-based survey at meetings, membership booths and on the Homepage of the ASGE website. Data from May 2004 through November 5, 2005 is reported. Endoscopy volume data, ergonomic issues, and personal fitness were also assessed. Results: 237 endoscopists completed the survey. 184 (78%) reported one or more injury. Specific injuries were: back (N = 68, 29%), neck (N = 66, 28%), hand and or carpal tunnel injuries (N = 102, 43%) and other (N = 37, 16%). 203 respondents (86%) described pain when performing endoscopy. (See table). 19%of endoscopists have modified their practice or shortened their endoscopy case load due to occupational injury. 12% reported missing work due to injury and/or having a related surgical procedure. Over 2/3 of those surveyed reported < 1 hr of aerobic fitness exercise, < 1 hr of stretching and nbsp; < 1 hr of resistance training per week. In contrast, the reported level of abdominal fitness exercise was higher; over 60% of respondents reported more than 1 hr of abdominal fitness exercise per week. 79% reported making ergonomic improvements in their workplace including adjusting video monitor heights, wearing soft soled shoes and using rubberized mats Conclusions: Data from this uncontrolled survey of ASGE members provides confirmatory evidence that endoscopy is a hazardous profession. Pain, injury, loss of work and surgery for these conditions are common. Although the respondents to this survey may not be representative of the profession, the results suggest that occupational injuries directly or indirectly affect a significant proportion of practicing endoscopists. Endoscopists should give more attention to ergonomic issues in the endoscopy suite and to maintaining physical fitness.