A wearable lower extremity support for laparoscopic surgeons: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Technology
• Biomechanics
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery imposes significant physical stress on surgeons, particularly affecting lower extremities due to operative site constraints.
• Maintaining prolonged, often static, postures during lengthy procedures can lead to surgeon fatigue and discomfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a wearable device designed to alleviate physical stress on surgeons' lower extremities during laparoscopic procedures.
• To assess the device's efficacy in facilitating a near-upright posture and reducing muscle strain.

Main Methods:

• A novel wearable device with a knee-joint locking mechanism was developed to assist surgeons in maintaining posture.
• Surface electromyogram (EMG) of iliopsoas muscles was recorded from three surgeons during laparoscopic procedures with and without the device.
• Post-procedure questionnaires were administered to gather subjective feedback on device usability and comfort.

Main Results:

• A trend towards decreased EMG activity was observed in the left iliopsoas muscle (P = .055) when using the device.
• EMG activity in the right iliopsoas muscle showed minimal change (P = .406).
• Surgeons reported a positive overall impression of the device, with noted difficulties in walking.

Conclusions:

• The wearable device shows potential for reducing physical strain on surgeons during laparoscopic surgery by decreasing iliopsoas muscle activity.
• Further refinement may be needed to address mobility challenges, but the device offers a promising approach to improving the surgical environment.