The study acknowledges that women generally have smaller hand sizes and lower muscle mass and strength compared to men.
A survey was conducted among 107 practicing gastroenterologists, comprising 41 (38.3%) females and 66 (61.7%) males. The survey collected demographic information, personal preferences in endoscopy styles and techniques, and data on endoscopy-related injuries. The results showed that female participants were shorter, had smaller hand sizes, and performed fewer weekly cases than their male counterparts. Additionally, a higher percentage of men (45.5%) performed advanced endoscopic procedures compared to women (20%).
The study found that women had specific preferences in handling endoscopes, such as holding the endoscope with the umbilical cord outside the forearm, using the right hand to turn the small wheel, and preferring a pediatric colonoscope for colonoscopy in petite or low BMI patients.
Endoscopy-related injuries were reported by 49.5% of all gastroenterologists, with a significantly higher risk of injury reported by women (63.4%) compared to men (40.9%). The study concluded that while higher weekly case volumes and performing advanced endoscopy procedures were not independent risk factors for injury, female gender was an independent risk factor.
The study highlights the existence of gender differences in endoscopy styles, techniques, and related injuries. It suggests that providing gender-specific training in endoscopy may improve ergonomics and decrease the risk of injury for female