Ergonomics
Good ergonomics are vital in both laparoscopic clinical practice (noun) and simulated laparoscopic practise (verb), to maximise performance and minimise risk of injury to the surgeon.
Most laparoscopic simulators are square boxes with port holes on the top. When placed on a standard height desk or table (~75cm tall) this results in a very awkward posture - with hunched shoulders, elbows flexed too much and instruments not in line with forearms (second image).
The eoSim SurgTrac simulator has been designed to address this - to allow good posture and ergonomics when used at standard table height (first image).
The eoSim SurgTrac simulator more accurately reflects the good operating angles achieved in theatre by lowering the operating table and tilting it towards the surgeon. The core elements of good posture during laparoscopic surgery and simulation practise are:
Head: looking straight forwards without rotation or extension of the neck. Ideally no more than 20-30 degrees of neck flexion.
Shoulders: a relaxed and neutral position.
Arms: alongside the body.
Elbows: bent to 90-120 degrees.
Forearms: continuing the axis of the instruments - i.e. wrist not bent.
Hands: neutral or slightly pronated, lightly holding the instrument handles.
Click here to explore the full range of ergonomically designed eoSim SurgTrac take-home laparoscopic simulators..