Robotic Surgery Is Less Physically Demanding Than Laparoscopic Surgery: Paired Cross Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Ergonomics
• Occupational Health

Background:

• High prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among surgeons performing laparoscopic surgery (LS).
• Limited data on the ergonomic advantages of robotic-assisted laparoscopy (RALS) in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the musculoskeletal workload of experienced surgeons during LS versus RALS.
• To evaluate the ergonomic differences between LS and RALS in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Twelve experienced surgeons performed hysterectomies using both LS (standing) and RALS (sitting).
• Electromyography (EMG) measured muscle activity, alongside calculations of muscle activation levels (gaps, static, mean, peak).
• Surgeons rated perceived exertion before and after each procedure.

Main Results:

• LS resulted in significantly higher neck and shoulder muscle activity compared to RALS.
• Surgeons reported lower perceived exertion after RALS, with fewer gaps during the procedure.
• Increased low back muscle activity was observed during RALS compared to LS.

Conclusions:

• RALS offers significant ergonomic benefits, being less physically demanding and strenuous than LS.
• Continuous monitoring and advisory schemes are recommended to further optimize working conditions for both LS and RALS.