To identify muscle activity and postures across specific segments of open and laparoscopic hernia repair surgeries and evaluate the effect of a shoulder-support exoskeleton across these segments.
Approach:
Study Population: Forty-five general surgery procedures were included, involving two minimally invasive surgeons and two fellows, all fellowship trained in hernia repair.
Surgical Procedure: Hernia repair cases were selected due to their high volume and performed using open and laparoscopic techniques, with key segments identified for evaluation.
Equipment and Sensors: Electromyography (EMG) sensors captured muscle activity, while an inertial measurement unit (IMU) system evaluated posture during surgeries.
Outcome Metrics: Metrics included normalized maximum voluntary contractions (MVCs), time in extreme angles, self-reported discomfort, and usability of the exoskeleton.
Study Protocol: Participants completed informed consent, demographic surveys, and muscle activity assessments before surgeries, with data collected throughout each case.
Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics and a linear mixed effects model were used to analyze differences in muscle activity between exoskeleton conditions.
Key Findings:
Hernia repairs involve significant physical demands that may lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs).
Open surgeries showed higher muscle activity and greater neck and shoulder flexion compared to laparoscopic surgeries.
Passive exoskeletons can reduce time spent in demanding shoulder postures and discomfort but require more specific evaluation during surgical segments.
Interpretation:
The study aims to provide insights into the physical demands of hernia repair surgeries and the potential benefits of exoskeleton assistance.
Limitations:
Results are aggregated across entire surgical cases, lacking specificity on when exoskeleton assistance is most effective.
The study's sample size and participant demographics may limit generalizability.
Conclusion:
Identifying specific segments of surgical procedures where physical strain is highest may inform the effective use of exoskeletons.
