Optimizing ergonomics during open, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted surgery: A review of surgical ergonomics literature and development of educational illustrations

Abstract

Background: The surgical profession is plagued with a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. While numerous interventions have been tested over the years, surgical ergonomics education is still uncommon. Methods: The available literature on surgical ergonomics was reviewed, and with input from surgeons, recommendations from the review were used to create pictorial reminders for open, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted surgical modalities. These simple pictorial ergonomic recommendations were then assessed for practicality by residents and surgeons. Results: A review of the current literature on surgical ergonomics covered evidence-based ergonomic recommendations on equipment during open and laparoscopic surgery, as well as proper adjustment of the surgical robot for robot-assisted surgeries. Ergonomic operative postures for the three modalities were examined, illustrated, and assessed. Conclusions: The resulting illustrations of ergonomic guidelines across surgical modalities may be employed in developing ergonomic education materials and improving the identification and mitigation of ergonomic risks in the operating room.