Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent one of the most significant occupational health challenges across healthcare professions. While extensive research has explored these conditions among nurses, surgeons, and other medical staff, perfusionists—a specialized group responsible for operating heart–lung machines during cardiac surgery—have received limited attention. The article “Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Perfusion Staff in Germany” addresses this gap by presenting the first nationwide survey assessing the burden of MSDs among perfusionists.
Perfusionists play a critical role in modern cardiac surgery. They manage heart–lung machines that temporarily take over cardiac and pulmonary function during complex procedures. This responsibility requires prolonged concentration and often involves maintaining static postures while monitoring multiple systems in the operating room. In addition, perfusionists regularly assemble equipment, transport heavy machinery, and perform repetitive tasks. These occupational demands create potential ergonomic hazards that may contribute to musculoskeletal strain.
To investigate this issue, researchers conducted a multicenter cross-sectional observational study across Germany. The study targeted perfusionists working in cardiac surgery centers and used the validated German version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), a widely recognized tool for assessing musculoskeletal symptoms across different body regions. Invitations were sent to 78 cardiac centers, and responses were collected from 287 perfusionists representing approximately 44% of the estimated national workforce. The response rate was 58%, providing a substantial dataset for evaluating occupational health risks in this specialized profession.
Participants in the study had an average age of 42.6 years and an average professional experience of 13.5 years. Most respondents were male, reflecting the demographic distribution of perfusionists in Germany. The researchers also collected body mass index (BMI) and other demographic information to examine potential correlations with musculoskeletal complaints.
The results revealed a strikingly high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among perfusionists. Overall, 86.4% of participants reported experiencing MSD symptoms in at least one body region within the previous 12 months. The lower back emerged as the most frequently affected region, with 65.5% of respondents reporting symptoms. Neck pain was the second most common complaint, affecting 58.9% of participants. Other frequently reported regions included the upper back, shoulders, knees, and hands or wrists. Although some areas such as the lower legs showed relatively low prevalence, the overall pattern indicated widespread musculoskeletal strain within the profession.
The findings suggest that occupational demands associated with perfusion practice likely contribute to these high rates of MSDs. Perfusionists often spend long hours standing or sitting in fixed positions during surgery. In many cases, workstations and equipment may not be ergonomically optimized, forcing professionals to adopt non-neutral postures such as forward bending or reaching. Handling heavy equipment, including heart–lung machines and associated components, further increases the physical load on the musculoskeletal system.
Statistical analyses revealed significant associations between musculoskeletal symptoms and certain demographic factors. Age was strongly correlated with higher prevalence of MSDs across several body regions. Older perfusionists reported significantly greater rates of neck, shoulder, hand, wrist, hip, and knee discomfort. Years of professional experience were also linked to higher symptom prevalence in multiple regions, likely reflecting cumulative exposure to occupational stressors over time.
Interestingly, the study did not find significant differences in MSD prevalence between male and female participants. However, body mass index showed a specific association with symptoms in the feet and ankles, suggesting that weight-bearing stress may contribute to localized musculoskeletal strain.
Despite the valuable insights provided by this research, the authors acknowledge several limitations. Because the study relied on self-reported questionnaires, responses may be subject to recall bias or inaccurate reporting. Additionally, the cross-sectional design limits the ability to determine causal relationships between occupational exposures and musculoskeletal symptoms. The study also did not collect detailed data about specific workplace conditions, equipment design, or task distribution, which could influence ergonomic risk factors.
Nevertheless, the research provides an important baseline for understanding occupational health risks among perfusionists. The high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints suggests that targeted interventions may be necessary to protect the long-term health of this specialized workforce. Potential solutions include ergonomic redesign of workstations, improved equipment handling procedures, adjustable seating and support systems, and educational programs promoting healthy posture and movement strategies.
Addressing these issues is particularly important because perfusionists represent a relatively small but essential workforce. In Germany, only about 650 professionals are currently practicing in this field. Workforce shortages combined with high physical demands could threaten long-term sustainability if occupational injuries lead to reduced productivity or early retirement.
In conclusion, the study demonstrates that musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among perfusionists in Germany, affecting the majority of professionals surveyed. The findings highlight the need for improved ergonomic practices, preventive strategies, and further research to better understand and mitigate occupational health risks in this vital medical specialty. Protecting the musculoskeletal health of perfusionists is not only critical for their well-being but also for maintaining the safe and effective delivery of cardiac surgical care.
