Prevalence of Hearing Symptoms in a Sample of Orthopaedic Surgeons Affiliated With the Colombian Society of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Are We Neglecting a Critical Health Alert? A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The high noise levels to which orthopaedic surgeons are exposed daily during joint arthroplasties may favor the onset of hearing symptoms. Determine the prevalence of hearing symptoms in orthopaedic surgeons affiliated with the Colombian Society of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. The prevalence of hearing symptoms and their impact on quality of life was assessed in a sample of orthopaedic surgeons affiliated with the Colombian Society of Hip and Knee Surgeons in 2024 by administering an online survey, which included the “Tinnitus Handicap Inventory” validated in Spanish. Results: A total of 103 survey responses were analyzed. Among the 60 surgeons who completed the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory test, 73% had grade 1 tinnitus, while none reported grade 5. The occurrence of tinnitus varied with years of practice, with those having over 30 years of experience reporting weekly tinnitus more frequently than those with less than 15 years. Conclusions: A high percentage of hip and knee arthroplasty surgeons have hearing disorders that affect their quality of life. Our work suggests that it is necessary to implement hearing protection measures that promote an adequate working environment to prevent the development of diseases associated with medical practice.