Occupational Hazards for the Practicing Orthopaedic Surgeon: A Standard Review

Orthopaedic surgeons are exposed to various occupational hazards in a busy daily practice which can cause potential physical injury and additional mental stress. By better understanding the hazards that are faced in the operating theater and the preventive measures that can be taken to avoid injury, orthopaedic surgeons can remain effective in their patient care duties. Infectious exposures, radiation exposure, noise pollution, chemical hazards, and physical demands are frequently encountered at the time of surgery and should be attenuated or avoided when possible. Simple preventive measures can prolong careers and protect the operating surgeon from musculoskeletal injuries and even solid organ damage and malignancy. Important consideration should be taken to recognize potential occupational hazards and act prophylactically before injury has occurred, and constant vigilance is required to avoid additive injury over time from physical and chemical insults.

Automated summary

Orthopaedic surgeons face various occupational hazards and should take preventive measures to avoid injuries such as infections, radiation exposure, noise pollution, and chemical hazards.