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Application of ergonomic guidelines during minimally invasive surgery: a questionnaire survey of 284 surgeons

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Abstract

Background

This study aimed to obtain an answer for the question: Are ergonomic guidelines applied in the operating room and what are the consequences?

Methods

A total of 1,292 questionnaires were sent by email or handed out to surgeons and residents. The subjects worked mainly in Europe, performing laparoscopic and/or thoracoscopic procedures within the digestive, thoracic, urologic, gynecologic, and pediatric disciplines.

Results

In response, 22% of the questionnaires were returned. Overall, the respondents reported discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back (almost 80%). There was not one specific cause for the physical discomfort. In addition, 89% of the 284 respondents were unaware of ergonomic guidelines, although 100% stated that they find ergonomics important.

Conclusions

The lack of ergonomic guidelines awareness is a major problem that poses a tough position for ergonomics in the operating room.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Landbergstraat 15, 2628, CE, Delft, The Netherlands

    L. S. G. L. Wauben, M. A. van Veelen & R. H. M. Goossens

  2. Thoracic Department, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, F-75014, Paris, France

    D. Gossot

Authors
  1. L. S. G. L. Wauben
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  2. M. A. van Veelen
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  3. D. Gossot
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  4. R. H. M. Goossens
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to L. S. G. L. Wauben.

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Wauben, L.S.G.L., van Veelen, M.A., Gossot, D. et al. Application of ergonomic guidelines during minimally invasive surgery: a questionnaire survey of 284 surgeons. Surg Endosc 20, 1268–1274 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-005-0647-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-005-0647-y

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