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Ergonomics in Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery: Survey Results

  • Original Article
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Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery Aims and scope

Abstract

Background

Ergonomic issues are frequently reported by surgeons performing laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgery. However, few studies have analysed this issue.

Methods

We used a web format survey to evaluate the opinion of surgeons with experience in this laparoscopic technique. This survey collected demographic information, surgical experience, physical and psychological symptoms, and technical problems related to this type of surgery.

Results

Some 78 surgeons filled out the questionnaire. All participants had clinical experience in this type of laparoscopic approach, and 68 % had performed more than 30 procedures. Two or more musculoskeletal symptoms were reported during or after performing LESS surgery by 81 % of all surgeons. Surgeons with more experience in this approach reported fewer symptoms and technical difficulties.

Conclusions

LESS surgery is accompanied by musculoskeletal problems and technical difficulties for surgeons. Technological advancements and greater surgical experience in the technique will alleviate these issues. More in-depth ergonomic studies are needed.

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Acknowledgment

The study was supported by a Fundación Mutua Madrileña research grant (AP9670/2011).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, “La Mancha Centro” General Hospital, Avd. de la Constitución no. 3, 13600, Alcázar de San Juan, Ciudad Real, Spain

    Antonio Morandeira-Rivas, Carlos Moreno-Sanz & María Luz Herrero-Bogajo

  2. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, “La Mancha Centro” General Hospital, Alcázar de San Juan, Ciudad Real, Spain

    Laura Millán-Casas

  3. Research Support Unit, “La Mancha Centro” General Hospital, Alcázar de San Juan, Ciudad Real, Spain

    José María Tenías-Burillo

  4. Physiatrist’s Department, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain

    Luis Giménez-Salillas

  5. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain

    Luis Giménez-Salillas

Authors
  1. Antonio Morandeira-Rivas
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  2. Laura Millán-Casas
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  3. Carlos Moreno-Sanz
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  4. María Luz Herrero-Bogajo
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  5. José María Tenías-Burillo
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  6. Luis Giménez-Salillas
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Antonio Morandeira-Rivas.

Appendix

Appendix

Survey form: Ergonomics in laparoendoscopic single-site surgery

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Morandeira-Rivas, A., Millán-Casas, L., Moreno-Sanz, C. et al. Ergonomics in Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery: Survey Results. J Gastrointest Surg 16, 2151–2159 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-012-2021-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11605-012-2021-4

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