Intraoperative Electromyogram Analysis of Postural Musculature With Three-dimensional Screen Display Versus Operating...

To objectively analyze the effect of three-dimensional screen-based surgery (3D SBS) versus traditional operating microscope (TOM) on operating surgeon posterior chain postural musculature during ophthalmic surgery. We hypothesized an increase in median amplitude of electromyography (EMG) signals when using a TOM compared to 3D SBS. The goal was to assess surgical ergonomics that may contribute to cervical and lumbar spine pathology. EMG analysis was conducted at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. Data were collected in the private practice setting at Cincinnati Eye Institute.

This was an institutional review board exempt, nonrandomized, prospective, single center, n = 1 clinical methods study. EMG surface electrodes were affixed to the bilateral splenius capitis, sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, anterior deltoid, and quadratus lumborum musculature. EMG data were collected across four sessions consisting of one day each using 3D SBS or a TOM, and two cross-over days. A survey regarding surgeon comfort was administered before, during, and after each surgery, and at the end of each day.

EMG cross-over data demonstrated an increase in muscle activation in all measured muscles except the anterior deltoids and right quadratus lumborum with use of a TOM. Survey data showed increased fatigue when using a TOM relative to 3D SBS.

EMG demonstrated increased postural muscle activation when utilizing TOM relative to 3D SBS. Similar to previous studies, our survey data suggest inferior ergonomics of TOM relative to 3D SBS. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:628-636.].