Muscle fatigue and physical discomfort reported by surgeons performing robotic-assisted surgery: a multinational survey

Robotic surgery has revolutionized surgical procedures and has provided many advantages over traditional laparoscopic and open surgeries. Despite the benefits, there are concerns about the physical discomfort and injuries that may be experienced by surgeons during robotic surgeries. This study aimed to identify the most common muscle groups implicated in robotic surgeons’ physical pain and discomfort. A questionnaire was created and sent to 1000 robotic surgeons worldwide, with a response rate of 30.9%. The questionnaire consisted of thirty-seven multiple-choice questions, three short answer questions, and one multiple-option question pertaining to the surgeon’s workload as well as their level of discomfort while and after performing surgery. The primary endpoint was to identify the most common muscle groups implicated in robotic surgeons’ physical pain and discomfort. Secondary endpoints were to highlight any correlation between age group, BMI, hours of operation, workout regimen, and significant pain levels. The results showed that the most common muscle groups implicated in physical pain and discomfort were the neck, shoulders, and back, with many of the surgeons attributing their muscular fatigue and discomfort to the ergonomic design of the surgeon console. Despite the level of surgeon comfort the robotic console provides when compared to other conventional forms of surgery, the findings suggest the need for better ergonomic practices during robotic surgeries to minimize physical discomfort and injuries for surgeons.