Physical Strain from Lead Aprons and Forced Postures in Surgical Staff – A Feasibility Study on the Quantification of Musculoskeletal Strain in Vascular Surgery

Status:

ongoing

Aims:

The feasibility study aims to identify and evaluate measurement and analysis methods for quantifying physical strain in surgical staff. The study will assess which operative tasks lead to high musculoskeletal strain and how the wearing of lead aprons can be quantified as a load factor. The results will provide the methodological foundation for a subsequent main study.

Activities/Methods:

The study begins with a market and literature review on musculoskeletal disorders in the target occupational group and on current lead apron systems available in Germany. Expert interviews with vascular surgeons are then conducted, with findings informing the selection of work processes to be observed. Non-participatory observations in the operating room are used to capture, visualize and evaluate work processes, strenuous tasks and body postures in collaboration with clinical partners. On this basis, measurement systems are assessed for clinical suitability and measurements are conducted using motion capture (Xsens Technologies B.V.) and surface electromyography (WavePlus, Cometa srl). Subsequently, semi-structured interviews with affected staff are conducted and analyzed using content analysis methods. Recruitment is carried out via three cooperating hospitals. Data analysis is descriptive and exploratory.

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