Lakomek Antonia, Eichler Theda, Janßen Tim, Meyer Moritz, Höing Benedikt, Shiraliyev Kazim, Lang Stephan, Schmidt Börge, Arweiler-Harbeck Diana
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, Essen, 45147, Germany.
Quality Management and Clinical Risk Management, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, Essen, 45147, Germany.
Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Sep 18. doi: 10.1007/s00405-025-09663-8.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) are an increasing concern among surgeons, especially otorhinolaryngologists (ENT physicians), due to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements during clinical practice. However, data on the prevalence of WRMD among ENT physicians in Germany are lacking.
A nationwide online survey was conducted among members of the German Society for ENT to assess demographic data, work-related factors, and musculoskeletal complaints. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
A total of 751 ENT physicians participated (53% female; mean age 51 years). Lifetime prevalence of neck complaints was 93%, with 82% reporting symptoms in the past 12 months. Shoulders, upper and lower back were also frequently affected. More than a half (53%) reported limitations in professional activities, and 22% had taken sick leave due to these complaints. The prevalence of symptoms increased with years of professional experience. Female physicians reported higher rates of neck and upper back complaints compared to males.
This study reveals a high prevalence and significant burden of WRMD among German ENT physicians, particularly in the neck and upper back regions. The findings emphasize the urgent need for preventive measures to improve occupational health and maintain professional longevity in this population.
由于临床实践中长时间的静态姿势和重复性动作，与工作相关的肌肉骨骼疾病（WRMD）在外科医生中，尤其是耳鼻喉科医生（ENT医生）中越来越受到关注。然而，德国耳鼻喉科医生中WRMD患病率的数据尚缺。
对德国耳鼻喉科学会成员进行了一项全国性在线调查，以评估人口统计学数据、与工作相关的因素以及肌肉骨骼不适情况。使用描述性统计方法对数据进行分析。
共有751名耳鼻喉科医生参与（53%为女性；平均年龄51岁）。颈部不适的终生患病率为93%，其中82%报告在过去12个月中有症状。肩部、上背部和下背部也经常受到影响。超过一半（53%）的人报告职业活动受到限制，22%的人因这些不适请过病假。症状患病率随专业经验年限增加而上升。与男性相比，女性医生报告的颈部和上背部不适发生率更高。
本研究揭示了德国耳鼻喉科医生中WRMD的高患病率和显著负担，尤其是在颈部和上背部区域。研究结果强调迫切需要采取预防措施，以改善该人群的职业健康并维持职业寿命。
