Phillip M. Boiselle MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Deborah Levine MD, Abstract Co-Author: Consultant, SafeMed Inc, San Diego, CA

Perry Jay Horwich MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Larry Barbaras, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Kathleen Shillue BA, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Dieter Affeln, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To determine the prevalence of repetitive stress symptoms among radiologists working in a PACS-based environment and to assess response of symptoms to ergonomic interventions.

A survey instrument was designed by Occupational Health specialists and administered to 107 faculty, fellows, and residents working in a PACS-based radiology department. Information gathered included: presence of repetitive stress symptoms, prior diagnosis of repetitive stress syndrome, and number of hours per day working at a personal computer or PACS monitor. Additionally, respondents who had received ergonomic chairs, ergonomic workstations or ergonomic training were asked to rank the impact of these interventions upon the severity of repetitive stress symptoms using a 7 point Likert scale (-3 markedly worse to +3 markedly better).

A total of 73 responses were received (68% response rate) from 33 faculty and 40 trainees (residents and fellows). Repetitive stress symptoms were reported by 58% of respondents (52% faculty, 63% trainees), and a prior diagnosis of repetitive stress syndrome was reported by 38% (39% faculty, 38% trainees). A majority (69%) of respondents reported working >8 hours per day at a personal computer or PACS monitor (55% faculty, 80% trainees). Improvement in repetitive stress symptoms (Likert scale +1 to +3) was reported by 70% of respondents who received ergonomic chairs (n=54), 80% who received ergonomic workstations (n=55), and 80% who underwent ergonomic training (n=20).

Repetitive stress symptoms are highly prevalent among radiologists working in a PACS-based environment but are responsive to ergonomic interventions.

Radiology departments should implement ergonomic initiatives to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries.

Boiselle, P, Levine, D, Horwich, P, Barbaras, L, Shillue, K, Affeln, D, Repetitive Stress Symptoms in Radiology: Prevalence and Response to Ergonomic Interventions.  Radiological Society of North America 2007 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2007 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2007/5005348.html