Ergonomics in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

Brandon Kamrava; Adeeb Derakhshan; Shekhar K Gadkaree

doi:10.1097/MOO.0000000000000977

Ergonomics in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2024 Apr 22. doi: 10.1097/MOO.0000000000000977. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Brandon Kamrava¹, Adeeb Derakhshan², Shekhar K Gadkaree¹

Affiliations

¹ Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
² Department of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California, USA.

PMID: 38695447
DOI: 10.1097/MOO.0000000000000977

Abstract

Purpose of review: Understanding effective ergonomic interventions is crucial for enhancing occupational health and career longevity. There is a paucity of clear ergonomics guidelines in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS), placing practitioners at high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and their consequences.

Recent findings: There is mounting evidence that FPRS specialists are at increased risk of WMSDs as compared with the public and other surgical specialties. Numerous studies have demonstrated that implementation of ergonomics principles in surgery decreases WMSDs. Furthermore, WMSDs are reported as early as the first year of surgical residency, marking the importance of early intervention.

Summary: Fatigue and physical injuries among surgeons occur more often than expected, particularly during complex, extended procedures that necessitate maintaining a constant posture. FPRS procedure often place surgeons into procrustean positions. Thus, integrating ergonomic practices into the practice of FPRS is essential for reducing WMSDs.