Ergonomic Trends in Endoscopic Skull-Base Surgeons: A Survey to the North American Skull Base Society.

Publication/Presentation Date

1-1-2026

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Lack of ergonomic practices in the operating room results in significant musculoskeletal strain. This study obtains a current assessment of self-reported musculoskeletal strain associated with endoscopic endonasal and open skull base surgery as reported by members of the North American Skull Base Society (NASBS).

STUDY DESIGN: Online Survey.

SETTING: Online.

METHODS: A survey assessing current symptoms in endoscopic skull base surgery was distributed to members of the NASBS.

RESULTS: Sixty-six responses were completed and analyzed. 95% of respondents indicated they had musculoskeletal strain at the neck and C-spine. There was no significant difference in average operating time per week and musculoskeletal strain. Prolonged standing during endoscopic cases increased neck/C-spine musculoskeletal strain (OR: 3.96; CI: 1.26, 14.2;

CONCLUSION: The results found that most respondents experience musculoskeletal strain and that factors including surgeon positioning and prolonged standing increase pain. Altering strategies in the operating room, including surgeon and instrument positioning, may help to decrease ergonomic strain amongst skull base surgeons.

Volume

10

Issue

1

First Page

70220

Last Page

70220

ISSN

2473-974X

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

41809139

Department(s)

Department of Surgery

Document Type

Article

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