2024 Senior Fellows Program (2nd & 3rd Year) | September 2024-Pawa

Pawa_ASGE SFC 2024

Pdf Summary

The document "Endo-Ergonomics: Work Smart, Stay Safe," presented by Dr. Swati Pawa, addresses the prevalence and risk factors of endoscopy-related injuries (ERI) among gastroenterologists and proposes ergonomic solutions to mitigate these risks. <br /><br />### Prevalence and Risk Factors<br />The demand for gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is growing due to factors such as reduced colorectal cancer screening age and increased use of advanced GI procedures. Studies show that musculoskeletal injuries are common among endoscopists, with an overall ERI rate of 57.7%. Factors like high procedure volume, hours worked, and years performing endoscopy are significantly associated with increased injury risk. Women endoscopists have higher incidences of ERI compared to males.<br /><br />### Ergonomic Challenges<br />Endoscopists face significant ergonomic challenges, such as awkward positions, long periods of standing, and repetitive motions. No major advances have been made in endoscope human interface design since video endoscopes were introduced in the 1980s. Issues like inappropriate hand size for equipment, especially for female endoscopists, also exacerbate these ergonomic challenges.<br /><br />### Ergonomic Solutions and Recommendations<br />To combat these challenges, the document emphasizes several ergonomic strategies:<br />- **Neutral Body Position:** Encourages maintaining a neutral stance with equal weight distribution and natural curves in the back and neck.<br />- **Proper Equipment Height:** Monitors should be at eye level, and bed heights should be adjustable to prevent musculoskeletal strain.<br />- **Anti-Fatigue Mats:** Use of mats to reduce lower extremity and back discomfort.<br />- **Microbreaks:** Short breaks, including targeted stretching, can reduce the likelihood of ERI.<br />- **Ergonomic Education:** Training sessions, online courses, and continual reinforcement of optimal ergonomic practices.<br />- **Engineering Controls:** Tools like right and left dial adaptors and optimal techniques for holding the scope can improve ergonomics.<br />- **Industry-Led Measures:** The most effective ERI prevention strategies come from industry and organization-led initiatives.<br /><br />### Future Directions and Final Thoughts<br />The document highlights the need for more research and funding in ergonomics within endoscopy. There is a call to prioritize ergonomics in the work environment to prevent ERI and related disabilities, suggesting that proactive prevention strategies are more beneficial than reactive treatments. <br /><br />This comprehensive approach aims to foster safer work environments for endoscopists, ultimately enhancing their physical health and job performance.

Keywords

Endo-Ergonomics

endoscopy-related injuries

gastroenterologists

musculoskeletal injuries

ergonomic challenges

neutral body position

proper equipment height

anti-fatigue mats

ergonomic education

industry-led measures