Structured muscle-strengthening exercise program and intraoperative targeted stretch micro-breaks: A work in cohesion to improve surgeon ergonomics during open thyroidectomy and modified radical mastectomy.

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are an emerging occupational health concern for surgeons. We studied the effect of structured exercise training, and intraoperative Targeted Stretch Micro-Breaks on surgeons' workload during open thyroidectomy and modified radical mastectomy (MRM).

METHODS

Experienced surgeons performed thyroidectomies and MRM before and after a structured self-administered muscle-strengthening exercise program and Targeted Stretch Micro-Breaks. Workload was assessed using EMG, body part discomfort, and SURG-TLX questionnaires. To observe the median change in pre intervention muscle data to post intervention muscle data, Wilcoxon Sign rank test was used.

RESULTS

Four surgeons performed 5 MRM and three thyroidectomy pre and post intervention. EMG analysis for MRM showed reduced muscle fatigue and postural muscle strain post-intervention. Thyroidectomy data indicated decreased trapezius activity, suggesting reduced neck strain. Body part discomfort questionnaire assessment showed improvement but SURG TLX didn't show any change post intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-administered structured muscle-strengthening exercises and TSMB improved muscle efficiency and reduced muscle strain, although subjective workload remained unchanged.