Abstract:
A frequent problem for surgeons in laparoscopic surgery is finding the correct operating table height to achieve an ergonomic working posture.
This study analyzes muscular effort, posture, work efficiency and discomfort of surgeons by electromyography, motion analysis and a questionnaire. Simulated laparoscopic surgery is performed using three different operating table heights.
For most of the surgeons, the optimal working posture is achieved when the operating table is adjusted to a height that results in an elbow angle of 120°, which leads to least muscular effort and fatigue in shoulder- and arm-muscles. For surgeons suffering from low back pain, a more upright working posture is suggested.