Ergonomic Interventional Design of an Articulating Arm for Echocardiography Application: Front-End Design and Pilot Study

Abstract

Echocardiography is a growing field due to the dual trends in longer life expectancy and rising obesity levels. Several publications have reported high prevalence of musculoskeletal issues among cardiac sonographers due risk factors that include prolonged probe pinching, forceful exertions, awkward postures, and prolonged maintenance of static postures. A design of an articulating arm that uses a simple locking mechanism was envisioned to reduce these exposures. A participatory approach involving experienced cardiac sonographers was fully integrated into the design process. A functional prototype was assembled, and pilot tested among cardiac sonographers in a clinic setting. The device was well received and thought to have potential in addressing the previously identified issues. However, several design iterations and more comprehensive evaluations will be needed before the device will be ready for implementation in echocardiography settings.