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Get a Grip: How Hand Anthropometrics, Grip Strength, and Sex Influence Power Tool Use in Orthopaedics
Catrin Morgan1, Olivia O'Malley1, Esma Lüleci1
1Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK.
JB & JS Open Access
|May 8, 2026
Summary
Orthopaedic surgeons, especially females, often use compensatory grips due to smaller hands and lower grip strength. Improved power tool ergonomics and training are crucial for all surgeons.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Ergonomics
- Human Factors Engineering
Background:
- Female surgeons often report discomfort and negative perceptions related to surgical instrument design, particularly power tools.
- Existing surgical power tool designs may not adequately accommodate the anthropometric variations among surgeons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate power tool handling education among orthopaedic surgeons.
- To identify common power tool grips and their relationship with grip strength and hand anthropometrics.
- To examine the influence of sex on surgeons' perceptions and use of power tools.
Main Methods:
- Survey of orthopaedic surgeons (residents and attendings) regarding power tool usage and training.
- Objective assessment including grip strength, hand anthropometrics, and power tool grip categorization.
- Analysis of grip choice based on index finger position relative to trigger.
Main Results:
- No surgeons reported formal training in power tool handling.
- Female surgeons reported more negative experiences with specific power tools (wire driver, drill).
- A bottom trigger index finger position was associated with reduced grip strength, smaller hand/palm size, and female sex.
Conclusions:
- Surgeons with smaller hands or lower grip strength, particularly females, adopt compensatory grip strategies.
- There is a need for enhanced training in power tool ergonomics and grip techniques.
- Current power tool designs are inadequate; manufacturers must create ergonomic solutions accommodating diverse hand sizes.
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