Discussion on operating room ergonomics is protective of chronic pain during vascular surgery training
Christina L Cui1, Margaret A Reilly2, Eric B Pillado2, Ruojia D Li3, Joshua S Eng4, Guillermo A Escobar5, Yue-Yung Hu2, Karl Y Bilimoria4, Malachi G Sheahan6, Dawn M Coleman1
1Duke University, Durham, NC;2Northwestern University, Chicago, IL;3Loyola University, Maywood, IL;4Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN;5Emory University, Atlanta, GA;6Louisiana State University, New Orleans, LA
INTRODUCTION: Occupation related pain has previously been demonstrated to be a negative predictor of well-being among vascular surgery trainees. The purpose of this study is to evaluate predictors of and factors that are protective against developing training associated chronic pain. METHODS: Data was collected from a confidential, voluntary survey administered after the 2023 Vascular Surgery In-Training Exam. Pain after work was measured using a 5-point Likert scale then dichotomized. Residency resources, such as discussing ergonomics, and structural factors, such as duty-hour violations, were similarly coded. Demographics and relationships were self-reported. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to compare predictors of developing chronic pain. RESULTS: A total of 475 trainees out of 521 eligible (91%) completed the survey. A minority (n=88, 18.5%) reported experiencing chronic pain related to operating. On adjusted analysis, more senior residents (post-graduate level 3 and above) had higher odds of reporting chronic pain. Discussing ergonomics was protective (odds ratio (OR): 0.44, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.22-0.88, p-value=0.04). Demographics, duty-hour violations, experiencing mistreatment and satisfaction with ability to pursue personal health maintenance were not significant predictors. (Table 1) CONCLUSIONS: More senior residents were more likely to report chronic pain. Discussion of operating room ergonomics was protective against the development of chronic pain during residency. Vascular training programs should incorporate lessons in ergonomics to protect against long-term occupation-related chronic pain.
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