“Surgical Wings”: Forceps-Based Device Improves Surgeon Hand Ergonomics

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical instruments require ongoing improvement for optimal ergonomics. Our novel “surgical wings” (SW) device is designed to improve steadiness of forceps and decrease hand fatigue and discomfort. Methods: A total of 21 surgical trainees and attending surgeons participated in this study at a single academic center. The effect of SW on ergonomics of various tasks using forceps was evaluated. Each participant performed tasks with and without SW attached to the forceps. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to record thenar muscle activity during all tasks. Post testing survey was conducted to evaluate participants’ assessment of the SW effect on task performance, hand fatigue and comfort. Results: Continuous Pinch test: The steadiness index (ratio of standard deviation to the mean of the EMG voltage) significantly improved with the device use (p value 0.031). Repetitive Pinch test: EMG values during rest periods were significantly lower with the device (p value 0.031). Pegboard test: No significant difference in the speed of completion or number of peg drops was detected in trials performed with and without the device. Post-testing survey: Participants scored favorably the device performance during pinch tests and neutral during the pegboard task favorably. Conclusion: Based on our data, SW effectively decreases hand muscle effort and allows for better hand relaxation. The device significantly improves the steadiness of forceps use during sustained pinch. The device use did not negatively affect speed or tasks performance precision. Favorable subjective assessment of device ergonomics by participants correlated well with the EMG data.