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Anatomical Positions

Anatomical Positions

In anatomy, several standard anatomical positions are used as references for describing the position and orientation of different body parts. These positions help provide a common frame of reference when discussing anatomical structures. The anatomical position is the standard reference point for describing the body's position and orientation. In this position:
The body is upright, facing forward, and standing erect.
The feet are parallel and flat on the floor.
The arms are hanging by the...

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Ergonomics in Surgery: A Review.

Tatiana Catanzarite, Jasmine Tan-Kim, Emily L Whitcomb

Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery

|September 16, 2017

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are common in surgeons across all surgical routes, often leading to disability. Developing objective tools and training is crucial to prevent these career-altering injuries.

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Area of Science:

Surgical Ergonomics
Occupational Health
Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant concern for surgeons, potentially leading to modifications in surgical practice.
Prevalence rates of WMSDs among surgeons are high, impacting their ability to perform procedures and their overall quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

To conduct a comprehensive review of English-language literature on ergonomic risks, WMSD prevalence, and specific ergonomic considerations for various surgical approaches.
To identify unique ergonomic challenges associated with open, laparoscopic, vaginal, and robotic-assisted surgery.

Main Methods:

Extensive literature searches were performed in PubMed and university library databases using keywords related to surgeon ergonomics and WMSDs.
Publications were screened, and relevant citations were analyzed in detail to extract information on ergonomic risk factors and prevalence rates.

Main Results:

High prevalence of WMSDs reported across surgical types: open (66-94%), conventional laparoscopy (73-100%), vaginal surgery (54-87%), and robotic-assisted surgery (23-80%).
Identified specific risk factors including loupes, headlamps, microscopes (open); table/monitor position, instrument design (laparoscopic); table height, trunk position (vaginal); and trunk/wrist/finger strain (robotic).
WMSDs often lead to disability but are under-reported, and current research tools have limitations in the operating room.

Conclusions:

WMSDs are prevalent among surgeons but often overlooked due to under-reporting and research challenges.
Future research should focus on developing objective ergonomic assessment tools and guidelines for surgical settings.
Implementing ergonomics training is essential to protect surgeons from preventable, potentially career-ending injuries.