The effect of COVID-19 on orthopaedics in Aotearoa New Zealand-a survey of orthopaedic surgeons and training registrars

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on orthopaedic practice in New Zealand, with a focus on training and mental health.

Methods: An online survey was sent to the 385 consultant orthopaedic surgeons and registrars in New Zealand registered with the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA). The survey consisted of 27 questions relating to demographics, the effects of COVID-19 on orthopaedic departments, on training, on mental health and the utilisation of telehealth and online teaching.

Results: In total, 189 of 385 NZOA members (49%) completed the survey. Of the 51 orthopaedic registrars surveyed, 55% felt that their training had been moderately affected, while 17% felt it had been significantly affected. Of those surveyed, 65% felt the pandemic had at least a mild effect on their mental health. Seven percent of registrars described a significant impact on their mental health compared to 2% of consultants (p=0.029). Overall, 46.5% felt they were more burnt out because of the pandemic, which was significantly higher in registrars compared to consultants (51% vs 44%, respectively; p=0.029).

Conclusions: Despite the comparatively low number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations and deaths, the effects for orthopaedic surgeons and training registrars have been significant.