Validation of ergonomic instructions in robot-assisted surgery simulator training

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Robotic Surgery
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Robot-assisted surgery training often neglects ergonomics, a key potential benefit.
• Optimal ergonomic training is crucial for maximizing the advantages of robotic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if concise ergonomic console instruction improves body posture and performance in surgical trainees.
• To assess the impact of ergonomic coaching on robotic surgery simulator performance.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 26 surgical interns and residents using the da Vinci skills simulator.
• An intervention group received ergonomic instruction and clutch coaching; a control group received standard training.
• Ergonomic (RULA) and performance scores, along with mental and physical load (NASA-TLX, LED), were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed improved clutch-oriented exercise performance with less unnecessary movement.
• Significantly better RULA ergonomic scores were observed in the intervention group for both exercises.
• No significant differences were detected in overall performance, mental, or physical load scores.

Conclusions:

• A brief ergonomic instruction session demonstrably improves ergonomic scores for novice robotic surgery trainees.
• Coaching on console ergonomics leads to better body posture and reduced inefficient movements.
• While ergonomics improve, this brief intervention did not affect overall performance or subjective workload.