Investigation and Analysis of Ergonomic Risk Factors Associated with Laparoscopic Surgeries Using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) Tool

Abstract

Laparoscopic surgeries are associated with less severe postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization and shorter inability to work. Despite the many advantages for patients, laparoscopic surgery causes certain ergonomic risks for surgeons, such as loss of freedom during surgical maneuvers, maintenance of forced body postures for long periods, and inappropriate arm and wrist flexion, bending, and twisting. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure, and analyze the working postures during laparoscopic surgeries using rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) tool. Sixteen subjects performed simulated laparoscopic tasks, such as peg transfer, and precision cutting. Two cameras were used to capture the motions occurred on the frontal and sagittal planes. It was concluded that laparoscopic instruments should be designed in a way that reduces arms and wrist inappropriate postures in order to keep upper arms at the sides of their body, and avoiding pressure points on hands and fingers.