Investigation of Hand Pain With Laparoscopy Among Gynecologic Surgeons

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Ergonomics
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Laparoscopic surgery is increasingly prevalent in gynecology.
• Surgeon discomfort and pain can impact performance and career longevity.
• Specific ergonomic challenges in laparoscopy are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the primary locations of hand pain experienced by gynecologic surgeons during laparoscopic procedures.
• To determine surgeon-specific factors, such as glove size and experience level, associated with hand pain.
• To analyze the relationship between the use of advanced energy devices and reported hand discomfort.

Main Methods:

• A secondary analysis was conducted on observational cohort survey data.
• A nationwide survey of gynecologic surgeons in the United States was performed.
• Data collected included demographic characteristics, hand pain locations, and use of laparoscopic energy devices.

Main Results:

• A majority of surveyed surgeons (68.9%) reported discomfort, with over half (56.8%) experiencing hand pain.
• Pain in the thumb, forefinger, and wrist was more prevalent in female surgeons, those with glove size <7, and trainees.
• Residents had significantly higher odds of thumb, forefinger, and wrist pain compared to experienced attendings, and surgeons with smaller glove sizes also reported increased pain.

Conclusions:

• Hand pain is a significant issue for gynecologic laparoscopists.
• Smaller glove sizes and trainee status are strongly associated with increased odds of hand pain during laparoscopy.
• Improving surgical ergonomics education for trainees and developing ergonomic laparoscopic tools are crucial to mitigate this occupational hazard.