Surgical Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Pain in Laparoscopic Surgery
Advice to surgeons on fundamental ergonomic principles to help them maintain a healthy and sustainable professional practice in the surgical environment
TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION
Tailored preventive programmes for musculoskeletal injuries and pain, either individually or for a specific surgical service, including monitoring of exercise routine learning and outcomes, supported by topic-specific videos and infographics summarising some of the findings from research in this field.
TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
Comprehensive training and advice for surgeons on ergonomic and preventive-therapeutic principles to prevent the onset of musculoskeletal injuries may be of interest to individual surgeons, surgical departments or hospitals at group level, as well as to other organisations related to this field, such as medical associations.
ADVANTAGES AND INNOVATIVE ASPECTS
Surgeons have the highest prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal pain and fatigue among medical and surgical specialties. Musculoskeletal pain affects professional performance and career longevity and consequently results in an economic burden associated with occupational injuries. The most common underlying cause is poor postural awareness and inadequate ergonomic configuration in the operating theatre.
There is considerable scientific interest in validating preventive plans and programmes for these professionals, driven by demand for this type of service among laparoscopic surgeons.
A key feature of this knowledge offer is the provision of expert advice from an experienced professional, including a series of preventive recommendations aimed at avoiding or delaying the onset of musculoskeletal injuries associated with surgical practice.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE
Advanced / Expansion Stage. Following the initial success with the team of surgeons at Hospital General Universitario de Elche, the research group is ready to transfer this knowledge and methodology to other national and international centres.
APPLICATION SECTORS
- Public and Private Hospitals.
- Occupational Accident Insurance and Workplace Risk Prevention Organisations.
- Medical and Surgical Training Organisations.
- Surgical Equipment Manufacturers (as design consultants).
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Ana Belén Ropero Lara – Institute of Bioengineering