Ergonomics Challenges in GI Endoscopy

Dr. Marybeth Spanarkel loved the “immediate gratification” in performing a colonoscopy or upper GI endoscopy and getting an immediate answer to a medical question.

Unfortunately, she had to step away from the field after 28 years in private practice in Durham, North Carolina, after a career-ending neck injury that caused sudden paralysis in her right arm. That musculoskeletal injury brought her career to an end, but it was the catalyst sending her down a new path — keeping other GI endoscopists from suffering a similar fate by educating them on the unique ergonomics challenges they face.

In this episode of Endoscopy Insights, we delve into ergonomics issues and training and also discuss her work on the development of an abdominal compression device used to prevent ergonomics injuries. Show notes:

• Q&A: Addressing Ergonomics Challenges in Colonoscopy
• Survey: Are All Endoscopic-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries Created Equal?
• American College of Gastroenterology
• ColoWrap