Olig, E. M., Wilson, S., and Reddy, M. (2023).  Output Force and Ratio of Laparoscopic Graspers:  An Evaluation of Operating Room Ergonomics.   American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 229(3), 307.

Abstract

Laparoscopic surgery has become the standard of care in gynecology. As with any demanding task, it has elicited a set of ergonomic concerns and risks of injury. Of note, 1 injury, “laparoscopist’s thumb,” or thenar paresthesia, has been documented since the early days of using laparoscopic instruments. Moreover, more generalized injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, have resulted from the repetitive motions of laparoscopy and continue to be reported by experienced surgeons. Many gynecologists experience pain associated with laparoscopic surgery. In recent surveys, 60.0% to 75.6% of gynecologists experience some type of pain, with 60.9% experiencing specifically hand or wrist pain and 14.2% reporting frequent pain in these areas, leading to recovery periods of up to 12 weeks for severe neurologic injuries.