Hanging foot switch for bipolar forceps: a device for surgeons operating in the standing position: technical note

Area of Science:

• Surgical Technology
• Medical Devices
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Foot switch operation in standing surgery often requires weight shifting, leading to instability and foot-switch contact loss.
• Current foot switch designs can cause physical fatigue and discomfort for surgeons operating in a standing position.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel foot switch device to improve usability and comfort for surgeons operating in the standing position.
• To eliminate the need for weight shifting during foot switch operation in standing surgeries.

Main Methods:

• A new foot switch device was engineered using aluminum plates with a foot strap and adjustable overhang.
• A disc-type foot switch was mounted upside-down under the overhang, operable by toe flexion.
• The device was tested in over 100 consecutive microsurgeries performed by standing surgeons.

Main Results:

• The modified foot switch eliminated the need for weight shifting during operation.
• Surgeons reported easier, quicker switch manipulation compared to conventional designs.
• The device prevented loss of foot contact and allowed free foot repositioning.
• Reduced physical fatigue and annoyance were noted, enhancing surgeon comfort.

Conclusions:

• The novel toe-operable foot switch design significantly improves the ergonomics and efficiency of standing surgery.
• This innovation enhances surgeon comfort and reduces physical strain during prolonged standing operative procedures.